poodle behavior

Question
I have a miniature poodle who is approx. 10 yrs. old.  We keep him in a closet when we are gone, with the door open, on a blanket, tied to a leash.
He has been fine in there since we moved into our new home; but for 3 weeks now he has been chewing on the nylon lead, and biting through the leash to free himself. He cries and whines most of the night, and we don't know why the sudden change in behavior.
Also, he chews on his feet almost non-stop.  I have allergy problems, and this seems to exacerbate the problems.  I am wondering if this behavior can be changed somehow.  Thank you, Tom

Answer
He's bored.  Chewing on himself is a fairly good indication of boredom.  He needs more exercise and more stimulation such as training.  There is an old saying that a tired dog is a good dog.  I would suggest getting a neighbour to walk him in the middle of the day when you are gone, doubling his exercise when you are around and introducing him three or four formal training sessions a week.  
It may also be worth getting a vet to check his feet, its possible you arent the only one with allergies, perhaps the carpets in your new home are different materials to the ones in your old home or have been washed with something he doesnt like at some point and its irritating him.
Hope this is helpful
Sarah