6 Tips To Stop Your Dog From Chewing

Chewing is a normal part of being dog. Both my dogs Abbey and Mollie have done their fair share of chewing acceptable and non-acceptable household items.

Blankets dominate their chewing fixation. But think about it: the most important part of prevention for chewing is just plain common sense. If you don't want your dog chewing on your shoes, clothes or furniture, start by keeping those things away from your pet.

Yes, I know. You can simply lift up your sofa or armoire and put it in a closet. So some trainers recommend applying a mixture of pepper in Vasoline or some other unpleasant-tasting substance to furniture legs and other potential chewing zones. Just make sure the substance is not toxic.

Also, this should seem obvious, but correct your dog only when caught in the act of chewing something they shouldn't. Otherwise, they are confused even though they may be acting contrite because they're responding to your anger.

When you do catch your dog in the act, quickly take away the incorrect item immediately substitute it with a "squeakie" toy, rubber bone or other favorite item of theirs. And by all means, then praise him lavishly.

Here are six commonly accepted tips for curbing your dog's enthusiasm for chewing:

1. Decide if the chewing is the result of teething, curiosity, boredom or a behavioral disorder. If in doubt, talk with your veterinarian.

2. Give your teething puppy a teething ring or a frozen washcloth to chew on.

3. Watch your puppy constantly. Keep him in the same room as you, or crate-train him when you're unable to supervise.

4. Divert your puppy's attention to something appropriate, such as a dog toy, when you catch him chewing. Rotate the toys so boredom isn't a factor.

5. Set aside specific times for your dog to be with you. Practice obedience training exercises. Teach him tricks. Or take your pet outside for an adventure.

6. Finally, exercise and play with your puppy. If he's tired, he won't have the energy to chew on anything he shouldn't.

It took us awhile to get Abbey and Mollie trained from unwanted chewing. But as suggested here, there are some simple steps you can use to train your dog to only chew his food and toys.