RSS6 Tips For Curbing Your Canine’s Chewing
Jun 18
Dog Information dog, Dog Information, Dog Training, dogs, pets, Puppy No Comments
Your puppy doesn’t mean to destroy your clothes, shoes, or anything else he manages to put in his mouth. The behavior is instinctive for canines. Sometimes, they’re bored; chewing on something is their way to entertain themselves. Other times, they’re curious about an object; chewing on it is how they learn about it. The downside for owners is that the behavior can lead to irreparable damage to their belongings.
Fortunately, there’s plenty you can do to dissuade your puppy or adult dog from chewing everything in his sight. Below, we’ll offer a quick list of six tips to help you control the behavior and protect your clothes, furniture, and bedding from damage.
Tip 1 – Restrict His Access
If you’re unable to keep your eyes on your pooch, crate him or put him in a room that is free from items that can be easily destroyed. As long as he has a few toys nearby, he’ll be able to entertain himself.
Tip 2 – Redirect His Chewing
If your dog must chew something, give him a few chew toys. Some are specifically designed for pups that are still teething. Others are meant for adult canines that need something to help pass the time. These toys are made from durable material, so they’ll last awhile before you’ll need to replace them.
Tip 3 – Provide Feedback
It may take time for your puppy to understand that you want him to chew his toys rather than your clothes. While he’s learning, you’ll need to occasionally remind him when he makes a mistake.
If you catch him chewing on something inappropriate, take it away from him (gently, but firmly) and replace it with one of his toys. As long as you’re consistent in providing this feedback, he’ll eventually learn what he can chew, and what is off-limits to him.
Tip 4 – Watch Him Closely
If you intend to let your puppy roam freely outside his crate, keep your eyes on him. Watch him to make sure he doesn’t yield to the temptation to chew your belongings. If he starts to do so, quickly replace the items he’s chewing with a chew toy.
Tip 5 – Take Him For Frequent Walks
As mentioned earlier, many dogs chew on things because they’re bored. Chewing on objects diverts their attention and keep them entertained. It gives them an outlet to expend their energy.
You can help alleviate your canine’s boredom by giving him more exercise. If you’re taking him on a daily walk, take him for two. If you’re already taking him on two walks each day, jog during one of them. Consider taking him to a dog park during the weekend. That way, he can play with the other dogs and burn up his excess energy. Less energy means less chewing.
Tip 6 – Train Him To Choose His Toys
Sit down on the floor next to your puppy and put a “forbidden” object (i.e. one that he is to avoid chewing) in front of him. If he begins to gnaw on it, correct him and direct his attention to one of his chew toys. He’ll gradually begin to choose his toys on his own.
Next, step outside the room. This will give your puppy an opportunity to learn to choose the right item even when you’re not present. If you catch him chewing on the wrong item, quickly correct him. If he chooses the right item, praise him and give him a treat. He will learn through repetition.
The six tips above are effective, but require time and patience. It’s helpful to remember that canines chew instinctively. Avoid punishing your pooch for doing something that comes naturally to him. Instead, train him. You’ll eventually reach a point where you can let him roam your house freely without worrying whether he’ll destroy something.
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