The Chew on Chewing

Welcoming a puppy into your home is truly special moment, and an experience that can bring excitement and joy to you and those around you. Cute little tails wagging, bounding around the room, and infectious playfulness are all perks of bringing home a puppy. Yet once the excitement subsides, signs of undesirable behavior may start to set in – including chewing. This is a behavior that many new pet owners encounter, and one that can wreak havoc on your happy home. Certain breeds are more prone to extensive chewing, but it’s a trait that all dog owners can potentially encounter. Check out our tips below to help your puppy refrain from chewing and keep the focus on the positive aspects of your new pet, like the joy they bring into your home! 

Take Chewing Precautions

Puppies are naturally curious and instinctual chewers. This combo of behavior can lead to potentially dangerous situations for your pup, so it’s important to take precautions and puppy proof your home. Take a long look around your home for possible dangers, such as household cleaners, toxic plants, or electrical cords and make sure to keep them out of reach. Remove temptations like shoes and socks from the open floor, block access to rooms that may have harmful items inside.

Encourage Appropriate Chewing

If you want to keep Fido from gnawing on your favorite slippers or table legs, think about finding him a chew toy he can call his own. Providing appropriate chew toys for your dog gives them a healthy outlet for their chewing, and can also be a source of praise and fun. Find a toy they love (you may go through a couple before finding one that really appeals to them) and praise them when they chew it. Be weary of rawhide and beef bones because avid chewers can whittle them down to tiny pieces that can be swallowed or become choking hazards. Try a nylabone for great chewing habits and healthy dental hygiene.

Take A Bite Out of Troublesome Behavior

If you really want to take a bite out of chewing, make sure you’re doing everything you can to help your dog and ensure they have everything they need. Exercise is of the upmost importance, and the more you help your dog exert themselves the less energy they’ll have for chewing. If excessive chewing persists, consider taking your dog to a veterinarian to make sure they do not have any medical that issues that need attention. Gastrointestinal problems may cause nausea which can trigger chewing as a coping mechanism.

It’s A Dog’s World has expert trainers who can help  your dog with basic obedience, good citizenship, chewing and more! Visit www.ItsADogsWorld.biz for more information.