Stop Your Puppy From Chewing
Sunday, February 15th, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed
Are you at your wits end because your puppy is chewing your furniture and possessions?. You have realized that puppies, as small as they are, can create a huge amount of damage, from scratching wooden floors and doors, to chewing your brand new pair of very expensive shoes. As with any behavior problem there is always a reason for this.
Chewing is a natural and healthy activity for a puppy. It is only when the chewing becomes destructive that it should be stopped. In this article the main reasons for chewing will be outlined together with details on how to stop this.
There are various reasons why your puppy is chewing your house to shreds. The reasons explained below include teething, boredom and separation anxiety.
Teething
At about 3-4 weeks your puppy’s teeth start to come through. By 16 weeks they should start to fall out when the first permanent teeth start to break through. When their gums are sore, they chew to ease them.
Boredom
Young puppies are particularly prone to becoming bored. They need a channel for their energy, such as exercise and playing games. Left alone for a long time, your puppy will quickly become bored and will turn to destructive behavior like chewing.
Separation anxiety and stress
Again, if a puppy is left alone for extended periods he may being chewing in order to alleviate stress and separation anxiety.
Once you know what the causes for your puppy’s destructive chewing, it will help you to take remedial action. Here are some tips to help you stop inappropriate chewing.
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• You could start by making a few specific toys available. Interactive and dispensing toys are good because they are designed to stimulate your puppy and hold his interest.
• By playing regularly with your dog with the toys, they are more likely to play with them when left alone because of positive associations.
• Put any items of value out of reach. You can also discourage your puppy from chewing your furniture and other objects by spraying something like Listerine or other anti-chew deterrent. The taste is not pleasant for the puppy and will prevent him from chewing.
• In the beginning it is important not to leave your puppy alone for extended periods of time. Start off with a short 10 minute period and gradually build up to longer absences.
• If you are absent for a period of time or cannot watch your puppy, you could confine them either in a pen or crate.
• It is important to praise your puppy when you see him chewing appropriate items. This gives positive reinforcement. On the other hand if you see your puppy chew on something he shouldn’t, say something like “no” or “stop” in a stern voice. Be sure to do this consistently.
Now that you appreciate the causes for your puppy’s chewing, you should be able apply the necessary remedial course of action. It is very important to reward the desired behavior and to correctly teach your puppy what he can or cannot chew.
Check out these links to read more about stopping a puppy chewing, separation anxiety in dogs and how to deal with boredom in your dog.
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