Dog eats doggy door

Question
Hi there,
I have a 18 month old irish terrier who refuses to let us keep a flap on his doggy door. Within 48 hours of us installing a flap, whether it be rubber, perspex or timber, he somehow or other chews at it or snaps it off and we find it in pieces around the backyard.  Nowthat it is coming into summer, we are starting to get too many mosquitoes in the house.  Do you have any suggestions for me?
Cheers, Peta

Answer
Hi Peta
Terriers are very intelligent dogs. Who knows why he's decided to eat the doggie door, he might just find it entertaining. Make sure he has PLENTY of doggie toys and lots of exercise. Not just turning him loose in the yard but PLAY vigorously with him as often as you can during the day. Long walks are also very productive, at least an hour twice a day, but anything will help. Also do not allow your baby contact with the doggie door unless you can supervise him for awhile. Use some behavior modification. A strong NO and a hand clap is very effective. Also putting something on the  flap itself can be useful (such as red pepper) but is also likely to discourage your dog from using the door. Stay consistent. Let me know how it goes
Diane