Why does my puppy destructively chew?
Here are some valuable tips for furrents (fur parents) on managing chewing behavior in their furry companions. Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, and understanding why they chew and how to redirect their chewing onto appropriate items is essential for a harmonious home environment.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Chewing is normal: Dogs of all ages, including puppies and adult pals, chew to explore their surroundings, alleviate discomfort from teething, relieve stress and anxiety, and simply for fun. Recognize that chewing is a natural behavior and provide appropriate outlets for it.
Puppy teething: Puppies go through a teething phase, usually completed by around 6 months of age. During this time, they may have a strong urge to chew to relieve teething discomfort. Provide them with safe chew toys specifically designed for teething puppies.
Pal-proof your home: Just as you would childproof your home for a toddler, take measures to pal-proof your house. Keep valuable objects, shoes, papers, cords, and personal items out of your pal's reach. Create a safe and comfortable space for your pal, such as using a crate or a designated area with appropriate chew toys.
Confinement when unsupervised: If you can't supervise your pal, provide a safe confinement area, such as a crate or a small room with the door or a baby gate closed. Remove any items that your pal shouldn't chew, and provide them with a variety of appropriate toys and chew items to keep them occupied.
Offer a variety of toys: Provide your pal with a variety of toys to keep them engaged and prevent boredom. Observe their preferences and offer toys that they enjoy. Rotate the toys every few days to keep them interested.
Edible chews: Offer your pal some edible chews like bully sticks, pig ears, or natural vegetables like carrots or squash. However, be cautious and supervise your pal when they're enjoying edible chews to prevent choking hazards.
Supervision and redirection: Supervise your pal during their waking hours until you feel confident that their chewing behavior is under control. If you catch them chewing on inappropriate items, calmly say "Ut-Nah," remove the item from their mouth, and provide them with something appropriate to chew on. Praise them when they make the right choice.
Remember, patience and kindness are key when teaching your pal appropriate chewing behavior. They are learning from you, so consistent guidance and providing them with suitable alternatives will help them understand what is acceptable to chew on.