The Basics of Dog Chewing
By HollywoodPet.net |
Sat, 9 Dec 2006
Most dogs love to chew. It's a natural habit that is all too common. When taken to an extreme it can lead to destructive behavior.
Most dogs chew and more than a few have destroyed something valuable. Who hasn't found teeth marks on a family photo, a shoe, or the corner of a pillow. Generally speaking, chewing is not a sign of anything but natural behavior from your pet. A majority of dog owners can claim that something of importance was damaged by the family pet. A few easy steps can redirect your dog into better behavior. Keep watch on puppies especially, because they are the kings of chewing.
Hunger and boredom are the most common causes of excessive chewing. A good start would be to change your dogs toys to have something fun, new and interesting. Rolling items are helpful because they keep your pet active, rather than laying and chewing.
Don't give play things that resemble off limit items. Don't give an old shoe for a chew toy. This only reinforces that the behavior is okay. One slip of leaving out a pair of shoes and your pet will have something you don't want them to chew.
A long-lasting toy made for chewing is a good bet too.
Play with your pet daily. This will burn off excess energy and refocus your dog on activities other than chewing. Laying around and chewing is a habit like anything else, and breaking these routines are a great step towards changing your dogs focus.
Having a visitor, neighbor or dog walker stop by in the middle of the work day is helpful too. An unexpected visitor can be just the right thing for breaking a chewing routine. When your pet misses you it can lead to anxiety and loneliness. Chewing is an easy stress reliever for your pet.
Positive reinforcement and disrupting any chewing behavior can retrain your dog over time. This is not so easily done with a puppy. The best solution for puppies is lots of toys and being kept in a safe place like a puppy-proofed room or playpen. Also remember that some dog breeds chew more than others, so remember to be patient.
With very little effort one can redirect their dog away from habitual chewing. When chewing becomes constant and destructive, creativity and distraction is the key. It could very well save a pair of shoes or a couch pillow.
