As winter sets in and those evening walks in the dark become routine, we've got your back! Here are...
Coming home to find your favourite pair of shoes shredded or the skirting boards gnawed can be incredibly frustrating. But chewing and destroying household items is actually completely normal behaviour for dogs. Understanding why your dog chewing and how to curb this kind of behaviour is key to a harmonious home.
Why Dogs Chew
Chewing is an innate behaviour for all dogs. Certain breeds like retrievers, hounds, and terriers are especially predisposed to chewing and tearing given their origins as working dogs who carried items in their mouths.
Dogs chew for several reasons:
Alleviates Boredom
Dogs need mental and physical stimulation. Chewing provides an outlet when they have excess energy and limited entertainment options beyond walks. It serves as a boredom buster. Make sure your dog gets adequate exercise and playtime, and has toys or puzzles to play with while you're not at home.
Natural Urge
Chewing satisfies dogs' innate desire to use their mouths. Some dogs have a stronger urge to chew, rip, shred, and tear items. Providing appropriate chew toys lets them fulfil this natural instinct.
Self-Soothing
Have you noticed that if you give your dog a bone or chew toy, they will spend hours gnawing on it, often falling asleep after? Chewing has a calming, self-soothing effect for dogs. The repetitive motion can help anxious or stressed dogs relax.
Fun Activity
Dogs simply enjoy chewing just like kids enjoy arts and crafts. It's a rewarding, engaging activity for them.
How to Curb Destructive
While chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs, the destruction of household items can pose challenges. Employ these strategies to meet your dog's chewing needs while safeguarding your belongings:
Provide Acceptable Chew Toys
-
Strong Rubber Toys: Opt for durable rubber toys capable of withstanding the jaw strength of power chewers; consider ones that can be stuffed with treats for added engagement.
-
Rope Toys: Offer toys with rope components as they provide a flossing action that contributes to dental health.
-
Dental Chews: Incorporate dental chews into your dog's routine to promote oral hygiene.
-
Food-filled Boxes: Enhance mental stimulation by presenting your dog with boxes filled with food, turning mealtime into a challenging and engaging activity.
Dog-Proof Your Home
-
Keep Tempting Items Out of Reach: Store enticing items like shoes and children's toys in places your dog cannot access.
-
Create Gated "Dog Zones": Establish designated areas within your home that are secured by gates, particularly when you're away.
-
Utilize Crates: Confine unsupervised dogs in crates to prevent access to areas where destructive chewing might occur.
Ensure Adequate Exercise and Playtime
-
Two or More Daily Walks: Commit to regular walks, providing essential physical exercise.
-
Incorporate High-Energy Play: Engage your dog in activities like fetch to expend excess energy.
-
Vary Walking Routes: Introduce variety to your walking routes to stimulate your dog mentally.
-
Schedule Play Sessions: Break up the day with play sessions, ensuring your dog remains active and entertained.
Address Separation Anxiety/Boredom
-
Provide Food Puzzles: Before leaving, offer food puzzles to keep your dog mentally engaged.
-
Leave Enjoyable Chew Toys: Ensure your departure is accompanied by chew toys that capture your dog's interest.
-
Hire a Dog Walker: Enlist the services of a dog walker for midday stimulation, particularly if you're away for extended periods.
Train Your Dog
-
Use "Leave It" Command: Train your dog to respond to the "leave it" command, discouraging inappropriate chewing.
-
Immediate Redirection: When caught in the act, redirect your dog to a sanctioned chew toy immediately and reward positive behaviour.
-
Consistent Practice: Reinforce the training technique consistently to establish positive chewing habits.
By understanding natural chewing needs and providing appropriate outlets, you can curb destructive tendencies while keeping your dog active, enriched, and well-behaved. With time and consistency, you'll both be happier!
If your dog's destructive behaviour persists or escalates despite your efforts, it may be necessary to seek professional help. A professional dog trainer or behaviourist can assess the situation and provide guidance tailored to your dog's specific needs. They can help identify any underlying issues and develop a customised training plan to address the destructive behaviour. In some cases, medication or other interventions may be recommended to manage severe anxiety or compulsive behaviours. Remember, seeking professional help is not a sign of failure but a proactive step toward ensuring the well-being of your dog.
If you would like professional training advice why not find the best dog trainers or behaviour therapists in your area using Pata!
