For puppies and dogs, chewing is usually a typical behavior that has several benefits, including helping to strengthen their jaws and reduce anxiety. Puppies go through teething discomfort just like babies do; however, biting or chewing on objects helps ease the pain. Puppies also chew because they are bored. Dogs are social creatures, and mental stimulation is necessary for their wellbeing. If your dog isn't getting enough exercise or one-on-one time with you, it might chew on unsuitable things to get attention.
How to Quit Injurious Chewing in Dogs
How to Quit Injurious Chewing in Dogs
Although there aren't many illnesses outside of teething that can lead a puppy to chew objects, it's still a good idea to visit the veterinarian to be safe. If your puppy's veterinarian certifies that it is healthy, there are a few things you can do to stop them from destroying your home.
1 - Make your house dog-proof.
Until they have learned all the commands, puppies shouldn't be allowed full access to your house. The kitchen is frequently used since it's simpler to mop up spills on an uncarpeted floor.
After you've chosen the spaces where your puppy can play, carefully inspect the area and start puppy-proofing. Anything that your dog might choose to chew on, pick up, or move. See what can pique the dog's interest by getting down on its level. Any electrical cords, plants, trash cans, kid's toys, and other items you don't want the dog chewing on or tipping over should all be covered or removed.
2 - Teach Your Dog to Crate
Although most people associate crate training with house training, it can also be an effective strategy for controlling hyperactive dogs. Crates can help keep your dog and your house safe when you're not there to watch over them. If your dog isn't in a crate, you can keep him or her in a little, puppy-proof space like the kitchen or bathroom.
3 - Give your dog playthings.
3 - Give your dog playthings.
Chewing helps puppies get through boredom and teething discomfort. Make sure your dog has plenty of acceptable chew toys to avoid it developing the bad habit of gnawing on improper objects.
Puppy-friendly toys include nylon bones, stuffed animals with squeakers, and inside rubber toys with hollow centers. Steer clear of antlers, hooves, and animal bones.
Avoid providing your puppy with old shoes and socks as toys since this might lead to confusion about which shoes are acceptable for chewing while others are not.
The safety of products like rawhides, pig's ears, and various other edible chews is a topic of some debate. Before giving the dog any of these things, make sure to consult with your veterinarian.
4 - Turn Over Your Dog's Toys
Rotate the puppy's toy on a daily basis as they chew to pass the time when they're bored. A puppy is going to be searching for anything to gnaw on that is novel and captivating. It will remain interested in the items that you want it to chew on if you occasionally switch up its toys, which will also discourage it from beginning to gnaw on the kitchen cupboards.
5 - Make a trade offer.
5 - Make a trade offer.
Try rewarding your puppy with a treat for whatever inappropriate item it is currently chewing on. If you repeat the order "give" before giving your dog the treat, this is a smart way to train them to understand it. Your dog should gradually come to understand that the word "give" implies "give them that thing in its mouth!"
Just be careful not to congratulate your puppy excessively when it trades in the incorrect thing for a goodie. Avoid making the exercise a game where the dog will get rewarded for chewing on inappropriate objects.
6 - Change your dog's direction.
Don't correct your dog if you catch it chewing on something wrong. Transfer the puppy to anything you want it to gnaw on after moving it away from the object. Squeeze a noisy toy or shake a bone to add some interest to your puppy's play while speaking to it in a cheerful manner. Praise the dog profusely for chewing on its toys.
You can offer your puppy a canine teething ring if you believe it is teething. After dampening a washcloth, put it in a freezer-safe container for around sixty minutes. Give it to the dog to chew on and pull on so its painful gums can be relieved by the cold.
7 - Provide your dog with lots of exercise.
A puppy that is exhausted is content. Make sure to spend enough time playing and snuggling with your puppy. Include walks in the dog's daily routine if it has received all of its puppy immunisations. Your puppy will start exploring ways to get rid of its energy if left on its own. Destructive behavior results from this. Regular exercise increases the likelihood of a well-behaved dog.
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