Inappropriate chewing is not an issue that is isolated to your dog. In fact, dog owners from across the world all have to train their dogs in what is appropriate and what is not appropriate to chew on. Correcting an inappropriate chewing habit before teething begins in puppies will go a long way in saving all of your personal belongings from imminent destruction, however, it can sometimes be tougher to get through to older dogs. This article takes a look at some of the steps that you should take to prevent inappropriate chewing, such as:
1. Rule out medical problems
Medical problems such as nutritional deficiencies or intestinal parasitism could be mistaken for inappropriate chewing. Chewing is often a coping mechanism for dogs with these conditions and it is therefore important that you speak to your vet to rule out any of these factors.
2. Puppy proofing
Puppies are generally inquisitive creatures and will chew on anything within their reach. Make sure to store any chemicals and items you don’t want chewed out of their reach. You will also want to block off any rooms that you don’t want your puppy going into.
3. Encourage appropriate chewing
Giving your dog toys that they are allowed to chew will discourage them from looking for items they shouldn’t be chewing. Be careful to avoid giving your dog toys that are similar to items they aren’t allowed to chew, such as an old pair of shoes.
4. Discourage inappropriate chewing
Conditioning your dog to chew the right toys will require a level of scolding when the wrong item is chewed. If your dog starts chewing an off-limits item, scold them but then give them an appropriate toy to play with. A further step you could take to discourage your dog from inappropriate chewing is to use taste deterrents.
5. Engage in playtime with your dog
Spending quality time with your dog not only strengthens the bond between you two, it expels any excess energy they might have, which will discourage them from attempting to chew on your shoes later on.
By following these helpful tips, you can reduce or eliminate inappropriate chewing in your dog and ensure that you continue to live harmoniously together for years to come.
