Dealing with a dog who chews on everything can evoke a mix of emotions for dog owners. One common emotion is frustration, as coming home to find belongings destroyed or constantly needing to replace chewed items can be exasperating. 😫 The repeated loss of valuable or sentimental objects can really take an emotional toll.
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It is important to acknowledge that these emotions are common and understandable. Understanding the reasons behind this behaviour and implementing effective strategies can help redirect your dog’s chewing habits and save your belongings. 👍🏻
Here are some practical tips and strategies for addressing and managing your dog’s chewing behaviour!
1. Understand the reasons:
Explore the underlying reasons for your dog’s chewing behaviour such as teething, boredom, anxiety, or lack of exercise.
Identify any specific triggers or patterns that contribute to their chewing habit.
2. Provide appropriate chew toys:
Offer a variety of safe and durable chew toys specifically designed for dogs. (For more information on dog toys, feel free to read this article! 🤩)
Experiment with different textures, shapes and sizes to find what appeals to your dog.
Rotate the toys regularly to keep them engaging and prevent boredom.
3. Exercise and mental stimulation:
Ensure your dog receives regular physical exercise to release excess energy. (To understand the importance of exercising for dogs, do read this article! 🐕)
Engage them in interactive play sessions, obedience training and puzzle toys to provide mental stimulation.
A tired and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to resort to destructive chewing.
4. Puppy proofing and management:
Puppy-proof your home by removing or securing items that are prone to chewing.
Use baby gates or create restricted areas to prevent access to off-limit areas.
Consider crate training or using a playpen to confine your dog when unsupervised.
5. Positive reinforcement and redirection:
Reward your dog for chewing on appropriate items such as chew toys.
Interrupt and redirect inappropriate chewing by calmly removing the item and replacing it with a suitable alternative.
Consistently reinforce positive behaviour and provide praise and treats as rewards.
6. Seek professional help:
If your dog’s chewing behaviour persists or becomes a serious issue, please consult a professional dog trainer or behaviourist for guidance.
They can assess the underlying causes and develop a customised training plan for your dog.
Dealing with a dog who chews on everything requires patience, consistency and a proactive approach. By gaining an understanding of the underlying causes behind your dog’s behaviour and implementing suitable strategies, you can effectively redirect their chewing habits and encourage more appropriate alternatives.
Remember to provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation, puppy-proof your home, and reinforce positive behaviour through rewards and redirection. With time, training and management, you can help your dog develop appropriate chewing habits and create a harmonious environment for both you and your furkid. ❤️
Thank you for reading this article, we hope it is helpful to all the pawrents out there! 💕 And if you have any suggestions on future article ideas, please feel free to leave a comment or you can always reach out to our Instagram or send us an email at myforeverdoggo@gmail.com. 😇💙
If your doggo is new to your home, you can also check out our article entitled A Guide to Help Your Dog Adjust to a New Home. We wish you the best of luck in becoming a pawrent!