Today our lives are busier than ever, and we leave our dogs completely alone for long time periods – sometimes up to 12 hours. Then we come home to find that the dog has been chewing on all our favorite shoes, furniture, electronics, and more. What do you do to stop it from becoming a vicious cycle?
It takes a little effort – and consistency – on your part, but chewing can be redirected so your dog isn’t destroying your valuables or endangering his own safety. But until he’s learned what he can and can’t chew, it’s your responsibility to manage the situation.
1, Dog-proof your home. Dogs explore the world with their mouths, so if you don’t want it in your dog’s mouth, move it. Keep common targets – clothing, shoes, books, trash, eyeglasses, and remote control devices – out of your dog’s sight.
2, Consider size and agility when deciding whether something’s out of reach: can he jump? Can he climb onto something else to reach his pot of gold? How tall is he when standing on his back legs?
3. Don’t confuse the boundaries between his stuff and your stuff, Don’t offer your dog old shoes, socks, or towels to play with, then expect him to leave your good stuff alone.
4. Dogs will be dogs, and most need to chew. Give him two or three toys to play with at a time. And keep things fresh and stimulating – rotate his toys every few days.
5. If you catch your dog chewing on something he shouldn’t, interrupt the behavior with a loud noise. Immediately hand him a chew toy while praising him. There’s no better way to get your dog to instill the understanding that chewing his own toys earns your praise.
Offer your dog a treat in exchange for the item clenched in his mouth. As your dog catches on to this idea, you can add the command "Give" as his cue to release the object in exchange for the yummy treat.
6. A tired dog is a good dog, Give your dog plenty of physical and mental exercise based on his age, health, and breed characteristics.
7. Never chase your dog if he grabs an object and runs. Being chased by his favourite human is the best fun in the world! Instead call him to you or offer a treat.
Above all, be realistic. It’s a rare owner who hasn’t lost a treasure to their dog’s chewing. Excuse me, I have to dash now. Destination? In search of a new iPod!