On Discouraging Your Dog From Chewing

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     Puppies and adult canines chew for a variety of reasons. When they do, they can damage your furniture, destroy your clothes, and even make electronic devices (e.g. DVD player) inoperable. Chewing is a common behavioral problem in dogs that can be extremely frustrating for their owners. But it can be curbed, or at least modified in such a way that your possessions remain untouched.

In this article, we'll explain the reasons your canine might be chewing on your shoes, clothes, couch, and other objects. We'll then offer a few tips for curbing or shaping the behavior.

Common Reasons Dogs Chew

Canines explore much of their world with their mouths and teeth. It is the way they learn and gather information. For this reason, they are instinctively motivated to put their mouths on any object they encounter. When your pet sees a new pair of shoes on the floor, he is inclined to put one of them (or, part of one) in his mouth.

Another reason for the behavior is excess energy and boredom. Left alone throughout the day, your pet may look for a source of entertainment. Chewing your couch may fit the bill.

Many canines also chew when they become anxious about their owners leaving them behind, even if for a short time. Your pet may begin chewing an inappropriate object out of nervousness as he awaits your return.

When taking steps to curb your dog's chewing, it is important to focus on the underlying reason for his behavior. For instance, if he suffers from separation anxiety, address that issue. If he's bored during the day, address his boredom. If you resolve the trigger, his chewing will likely stop.

Crate Your Canine

If you are home when your dog chews on your property, consider using a crate to confine him. If you have acclimated him properly to his crate, he'll willingly go to it. While this alone will not curb his tendency to chew, it will separate him from your clothes, furniture, and other possessions. Make sure he has toys to occupy his attention while he is in his crate.

Dispel His Pent-Up Energy And Boredom

Some dogs are more energetic than others. They require more exercise in order to help them burn off energy and dispel boredom. If they receive too little exercise, their energy and boredom will build until both are unleashed upon their owners' furniture.

A lot of owners take their canines for a single, short, daily walk without realizing their pets may need more. If your dog is especially energetic, take him for two walks each day. He may even enjoy running.

Provide Him With Chew Toys

Chew toys are valuable because they help you redirect your canine's chewing to objects that are more suitable than your shoes, clothes, and furniture. These toys are designed for canines to chew. Some are made for puppies while others are made for adults.

If you notice your dog chewing an inappropriate object, divert his attention by placing one of his chew toys on the floor next to him. Then, look away so he doesn't think you're playing with him. If he abandons the forbidden object and picks up his chew toy, praise him and give him a treat. If he ignores his toy and resumes chewing on the off-limits object, correct him.

Bear in mind that your canine doesn't chew with the intent to destroy your belongings. He is not motivated by anger or revenge. In most cases, the behavior is caused by one of the triggers mentioned above (i.e. exploration, separation anxiety, pent-up energy, etc.).

This is important to remember. Many owners react to their pets' chewing with anger and punishment. Unfortunately, doing so is more likely to cause your canine to fear you rather than encouraging him to avoid chewing. As with shaping an undesirable behavior in your dog, be patient with him. Then, give him praise and treats when he behaves properly.