How to Stop Your Dog From Chewing
It can be very rewarding to have a dog as a companion and if you have kids they can grow up with affectionate four legged friends. A well behaved dog can be a most important and welcome member of the family but to get the most enjoyment from your pet you must make sure that you know how to stop your dog from chewing.
There are a number of things you will need to consider if you have a dog that chews. The most effective way to stop your dog from chewing is to look at the dog’s environment. Is your dog bored? Could it be anxious or stressed? Is it teething? These are all factors that could lead to your dog displaying chewing behaviour.
A few steps to try
- Your dog looks to you for direction and remember that you are in control of your dog’s behaviour. Your dog needs to know this. Dogs are pack animals and they don’t mind being at the bottom! You are their leader.
Yes I Want Help to Change my Dog’s Behavior
- Firstly, what is your dog chewing? If your dog is chewing anything in your home like shoes, clothes, etc your dog thinks it is allowed to. A simple way to deal with this is to remove objects that are too tempting for the growing puppy, until more self control and maturity is learned. Sometimes spraying an object with a bitter taste will stop your dog from chewing it. This will be remembered by the dog and will act as a deterrent in preventing future chewing episodes.
- Secondly, why is your dog chewing? Perhaps your puppy is teething? If so it will need things to chew on that help it’s painful gums. Dogs are able to distinguish between objects they are allowed to chew and objects they are not. For sore gums you could try a hard rubber ball, puppy teething rings or some frozen dog chew toys.
- Next, is your dog chewing because it’s bored or stressed? Your new family member is going to need a fair bit of stimulation to keep it entertained. If you are away all day you could try your dog with some interesting dog toys that require persistence to master and often offer a dog treat when they have accomplished the desired outcome.
- Your dog may be stressed because you are away all day. You could try leaving without your dog knowing, to reduce the seperation anxiety. When you are at home, include your pet in activities and make sure they are not ignored. Being bored will lead to your dog behaving in a way that is unacceptable to attract your attention.
If you would like to learn more about changing your dog’s chewing behavior we strongly recommend you pick up a copy of Secrets to Dog Training by Daniel Stevens.
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