How To Get Your Dog To Stop Chewing So Much
Although dogs are known as man’s best friend, they’re not always man’s best-behaved friends. Whether it’s using your house as a toilet or barking loudly at all hours of the morning, a dog can sometimes have certain behavioral problems that need addressing. One of the worst, at least when it comes to the damage that can be caused, is when your dog begins to chew your home to pieces.
However, instead of accepting this and hoping he’ll grow out of it, you can learn how to get your dog to stop chewing, and not only is it easier than you might think, you’ll also be saving yourself further problems down the line, especially with control issues. The first thing to do is understand why dogs chew, and this will help you train him to stop faster.
Why Do Dogs Chew?
There are a variety of reasons why dogs chew, and understanding these reasons is the first step in how to get your dog to stop chewing. It could be from boredom, anxiety, loneliness, or even something as simple as hunger. Dental problems such as gum pain could also be at the root of the problem, so make sure you constantly check for inflamed gums and yellow teeth.
Methods to Get Your Dog to Stop Chewing
If you’re sure that it’s not his teeth or gums that are at fault, then you need to look deeper into what’s making him chew, and come up with alternatives to these reasons. For example, if your dog is bored and that’s the cause of his chewing, then make sure you give your dog plenty of exercise and keep him occupied. If you find your dog chewing on particular items, like shoes or cushions for instance, then try and divert him away from this by giving him other sources to chew on, and ones that are allowed. Pet stores have a wide range of chew toys in all shapes and sizes, so you’re bound to find something here. The most important thing is to ensure it doesn’t look or feel anything like what the dog is not allowed to chew on. Chew Proof Your Home
Another failsafe method in how to get your dog to stop chewing is to actually chew proof your home. Much like you would make your home safe if you have a child, by covering up plug sockets and using fire guards, you can take this approach into guarding your home against your dog’s chewing habits. For example, when you’re out, keep the doors closed to rooms where there are things that you feel your dog would chew, given half the chance. Tidy up after you as well, since leaving things lying around is only putting temptation your dog’s way. If all this fails, you can always apply something like vinegar or rubbing alcohol to the areas your dog targets the most. Although it may give him a nasty aftertaste (and the smell might linger a while), it’s a highly effective way of getting your dog to stop chewing in the short run.
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