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Dog Training: Managing Chewing Behavior

Toby Morley, January 18, 2025

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, but when it becomes excessive or directed toward inappropriate items like furniture or shoes, it can become a frustrating problem for pet owners dog training 77070. Understanding why dogs chew and learning how to manage this behavior through training can help keep your home safe while allowing your dog to express their natural instincts.

Why Do Dogs Chew?

  1. Teething: Puppies, especially those between 3 to 6 months old, often chew to relieve the discomfort of teething. It’s a way to soothe their gums as their adult teeth come in.
  2. Boredom: Dogs, particularly active or intelligent breeds, may chew to pass the time when they are not mentally or physically stimulated enough.
  3. Anxiety: Dogs can chew out of stress or separation anxiety. When left alone, they may chew on household items as a way to self-soothe.
  4. Exploration: Dogs, especially puppies, explore the world through their mouths. They may chew to learn more about their environment.
  5. Attention-Seeking: Some dogs chew on inappropriate items to get attention, even if it’s negative attention, like scolding.

Steps to Manage and Train Against Destructive Chewing

  1. Provide Chew Toys: Offering appropriate chew toys is one of the simplest and most effective ways to redirect your dog’s chewing behavior. Choose durable toys that can withstand heavy chewing and give your dog variety to keep them engaged.
  2. Training “Leave It” and “No Chew” Commands: Teaching your dog basic commands like “leave it” or “no chew” can help prevent them from chewing on inappropriate objects. When they start chewing something they shouldn’t, say “leave it,” and immediately offer a chew toy as an alternative. Reward them when they switch to the appropriate item.
  3. Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Ensure your dog is getting enough physical exercise and mental stimulation. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive chewing. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and daily walks or runs can help reduce boredom.
  4. Deterring Agents: If your dog is chewing on furniture or personal items, using safe, bitter-tasting sprays designed for deterring chewing can be helpful. These sprays make objects unappealing to dogs, encouraging them to leave them alone.
  5. Manage Anxiety: If chewing is a result of separation anxiety, consider using calming aids like anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers, or crate training to provide a secure environment when you’re away. Gradual desensitization to your absence can also help reduce anxiety-based chewing.
  6. Supervision and Crate Training: Supervise your dog when they are in areas where they might chew on inappropriate items. When you can’t supervise, consider using a crate or a safe, dog-proof room to prevent access to tempting items.
  7. Redirect Behavior: When you catch your dog chewing on something they shouldn’t, calmly redirect them to a more appropriate item. Praise and reward them when they engage with the chew toy or item you’ve provided.

Conclusion

Chewing is a natural and healthy behavior, but when directed at the wrong objects, it can lead to frustration and damage. By providing appropriate chew toys, offering plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and using positive reinforcement to teach your dog what is acceptable, you can manage their chewing habits effectively. With patience and consistency, your dog will learn to satisfy their chewing instincts in a way that’s both safe and beneficial for them.

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