If you’ve ever come home to find your favorite pair of shoes shredded, your couch cushions gnawed, or your remote control reduced to a pile of plastic bits, you’re not alone. Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs and puppies, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with the destruction. In this blog post, we’ll explore why dogs chew, how to manage the behavior, and tips for redirecting their energy toward more appropriate.
Chewing is a natural part of being a dog, but it doesn’t have to mean the end of your favorite belongings. By understanding why your dog chews and providing them with appropriate outlets, you can save your shoes, furniture, and sanity. Remember, patience and consistency are key. With time and effort, you’ll have a happy, well-behaved pup who knows exactly what’s okay to chew—and what’s not.
Why Do Dogs and Puppies Chew?
Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand why your furry friend is so obsessed with chewing. Here are the most common reasons:
1. Teething: Puppies chew to relieve the discomfort of teething, which typically occurs between 3 and 6 months of age. Just like human babies, puppies experience sore gums as their adult teeth come in.
2. Boredom: Dogs are intelligent, active creatures. If they’re not mentally or physically stimulated, they may turn to chewing as a way to entertain themselves.
3. Anxiety or Stress: Chewing can be a coping mechanism for dogs experiencing separation anxiety, fear, or stress. It helps them self-soothe.
4. Exploration: Puppies, in particular, use their mouths to explore the world. Chewing helps them learn about textures, tastes, and objects.
5. Instinct: Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs. In the wild, they would chew on bones and sticks to keep their teeth clean and jaws strong.
How to Manage Chewing Behavior
Dealing with a dog that loves to chew doesn’t have to be a battle. With patience, consistency, and the right tools, you can guide your pup toward better habits. Here’s how:
1. Puppy-Proof Your Home
The first step is to minimize opportunities for destruction. Keep shoes, cords, and other tempting items out of reach. Use baby gates to restrict access to certain areas, and consider crate training to keep your pup safe when you’re not home.
2. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
Dogs need an outlet for their chewing instincts, so give them plenty of options. Look for durable chew toys designed for their size and chewing strength. Some popular choices include:
- Rubber toys (like Kongs)
- Rope toys
- Collagen rolls
- Bully sticks
- Frozen teething toys (great for puppies)
Rotate the toys regularly to keep things interesting.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
When your dog chews on an appropriate item, praise them and offer a treat. Positive reinforcement helps them associate good behavior with rewards. If you catch them chewing on something they shouldn’t, calmly redirect them to a toy and reward them for making the switch.
4. Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Make sure your pup gets plenty of physical exercise (walks, playtime, etc.) and mental stimulation (puzzle toys, training sessions). This will reduce boredom-induced chewing.
5. Address Anxiety
If your dog is chewing due to stress or separation anxiety, work on addressing the root cause. Gradual desensitization to being alone, calming supplements, or even consulting a professional trainer or behaviorist can help.
6. Use Deterrents
For items you can’t move out of reach (like furniture legs), use a pet-safe deterrent spray. These sprays have a bitter taste that discourages chewing. Always test a small area first to ensure it won’t damage the surface.
7. Be Patient and Consistent
Changing behavior takes time, especially with puppies. Stay consistent with your training and avoid punishing your dog for chewing. Punishment can create fear and confusion, making the problem worse.
What Not to Do!
- Don’t Give Old Shoes or Clothes as Toys: This sends mixed signals. If it’s okay to chew on an old shoe, how is your dog supposed to know the difference between that and your brand-new sneakers?
- Avoid Harsh Punishment: Yelling or physical punishment can damage your bond with your dog and increase anxiety, which may lead to more chewing.
- Don’t Leave Them Unsupervised: Until your dog has learned what’s acceptable to chew, supervise them closely. This allows you to intervene and redirect as needed.
When to Seek Help
While chewing is normal, excessive or destructive chewing can sometimes indicate an underlying issue, such as:
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Dental problems
- Severe anxiety or compulsive behavior
If you’ve tried everything and your dog’s chewing is still out of control, consult your veterinarian or a certified dog behaviorist for guidance.
The Best Dog Treats for Aggressive Chewers
1. Bully Sticks
Bully sticks are a natural, long-lasting chew treat. They’re highly digestible and perfect for keeping aggressive chewers occupied.
Why They’re Great: They’re high in protein and free from artificial additives.
2. Crunchy Ears
Crunchy buffalo ears, are a crunchy and flavorful treat that dogs love. They’re a great alternative to rawhide and are perfect for moderate to aggressive chewers.
**Why They’re Great:** They’re rich in flavor and help promote dental health by reducing plaque buildup.
3. Collagen Strips
Collagen strips are a rawhide-free alternative that’s easy to digest and great for dental health. They’re tough enough to withstand aggressive chewers while promoting healthy joints and skin.
Why They’re Great: They’re packed with collagen, which supports joint health and improves coat condition.
4. Horn Core
Buffalo horn core are a durable and natural chew option that can last for weeks. They’re rich in minerals and won’t splinter like bones.
Why They’re Great: They’re long-lasting, low in odor, and provide mental stimulation.
Tips for Choosing the Right Treat for Your Aggressive Chewer
1. Match the Treat to Your Dog’s Size: Larger dogs may need bigger, more durable treats like horn cores, while smaller dogs might prefer collagen strips or crunchy ears.
2. Supervise Chewing: Always keep an eye on your dog to ensure they’re chewing safely and not breaking off large pieces.
3. Rotate Treats: Keep your dog interested by offering a variety of textures and flavors.
4. Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect treats for signs of damage and replace them as needed.
Now, go reward your dog with a chew toy and enjoy a chew-free home! 🐾
