Are you are having problems with your puppy chewing your furniture and possessions. You may have now gathered that your little puppy 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 negative behavior, there is always a reason for chewing.
It is important to understand that it is natural and healthy for a puppy to chew. Only when the chewing becomes inappropriate,should you take action. The aim of this article is to illustrate the main reasons for chewing, then to give you tips on how to stop this.
There are various reasons why your puppy is chewing your house to shreds. The ones detailed below include teething, boredom and separation anxiety.
Teething
At about 3-4 weeks your puppy’s teeth start to break through. By 16 weeks they will 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 an outlet for their energy such as exercise and mental stimulation. If left alone for too long, your puppy will easily become bored and will then turn to a destructive behavior such as chewing.
Separation Anxiety
Again, if a puppy is left alone for long periods he may start 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.
• Start by giving your puppy three or four toys. Interactive and dispensing toys are good because they are designed to stimulate your puppy and hold his interest.
• By using these toys and playing regularly with your puppy, they will start to have pleasant with them and are more likely to play with them when left alone.
• 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. You puppy will not like the taste and will stop them from chewing.
• Do not leave your puppy on his own for long periods in the beginning. Begin with a short 10 minute period and gradually build up to longer absences.
• If you are away 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 the correct items. This establishes the desired behavior through 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 understand the reasons for your puppy’s chewing, you should be able apply the necessary remedial course of action. It is very important to reward correct behavior and to correctly teach your puppy what he is allowed to chew and what he is not allowed to chew.
Check out these links to read more about stopping a dog chewing, puppy separation anxiety and dog boredom.
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