schnauzer 15 months old eating carpet

Question
Our dog is a very well behaved dog, except when left alone she likes to eat the carpet. This is our 3rd schnauzer and the other two never did this. This current dog listens, and is well behaved and not hyper. any suggestions?? She has all kinds of toys, bones etc

Answer
HI Rich,

You didn't mention how old your dog was when she started eating the carpet and just because your previous two dogs didn't do this is never a guarantee that a current dog won't do it. They are as individual as people are! Most likely your dog is bored and has no idea that she shouldn't eat the carpet. Since she does this when you aren't home you can't catch her in the act and then let her know you don't appreciate her affinity for rugs.  No dog should have free reign of the house until they prove themselves. I suggest you crate train your dog and crate her when she is alone or at the very least put her in a room without carpet. Increase her exercise before you leave so she will be more apt to sleep while you are away. Today's dogs are abysmally bored because of their lack of exercise. Lastly, investigate how to stuff a Kong and give that to her when you leave. Appropriately stuffed Kongs last for 45 minutes of activity after which your dog should be a wee bit tired. Also re-assess how long you are leaving her alone and if need be, get a dog sitter to come by and exercise her for 30 minutes during the day.

Jaz