Understanding why dogs chew provides tips for managing this natural instinct.
Chewing and gnawing is a natural instinct for dogs. Knowing that it’s one of the characteristics to be accepted along with the dog, owners have to take responsibility, through training and security, for making sure it doesn’t become a problem.
Why Dogs Chew
- Teething - Puppies sometimes chew to massage sore gums when teething
- Exploring – Dogs may chew an interesting object as a way of ‘examining’ it
- Relieving Stress – Sometimes very active dogs or puppies who are bored need a way to stay occupied
- Shredding – Dogs will sometimes shred a pillow or piece of clothing. This is the canine version of ‘how to make a bed’
- Pacifying – Dogs who are separated from their owners may feel soothed when they find an object with the owner’s scent to chew on
Hazards of Chewing
- Dogs may destroy valuable belongings
- Dogs may be injured or poisoned if they chew electrical cords, garbage or other inappropriate items
How to Manage Problem Chewing
Keep valuable or hazardous items out of reach. Put away shoes, remotes, books, cell phones, and games and make sure cabinet doors are closed and trash cans are secured. Children’s toys should be put away when not in use as the dog may not be able to distinguish between their toys and his. Place electrical cords behind furniture. This way your dog won’t be tempted.
Provide a secure area for your dog such as a crate or a gated room when you have to be away. Baby gates should be made of wood as dogs can chew through plastic. Leave him plenty of his own chew toys to keep him occupied. Make sure his toys are safe and not something he can chew pieces off of and choke on.
Teach your dog what is acceptable to chew and what is not. If you catch him gnawing on a chair leg, tell him a stern ‘no’ and then playfully toss him one of his own chew toys. Catch his attention. Gently toss the toy in the air, then roll it to him. Show him how to play with his own toy. Make it fun so he forgets about the chair leg.
Dogs need exercise to burn energy and relieve stress. Take him for a walk, play fetch or lead him over an obstacle course daily. Practice his obedience commands daily. The mental stimulation will help him mature.
Dogs need attention and love to relieve anxiety. Make sure he gets several hugs and ‘good doggy’ pats every day.
Accidents do happen. If your dog destroys something you value, correcting him after the fact won’t do any good. It will only make him fearful of you as he won’t understand why you’re angry. Just be a little more diligent with his training and keeping valuables out of his reach. The key here is patience. Remind yourself that he didn’t do it to spite you and that, as he matures, his drive to chew will fade.
Related Reading:
Foundation for Easy Puppy Training
