Destructive Chewing Behaviors and How to Curb Them
There are many reasons why dogs chew on things. It is normal for puppies to chew on things because their teeth are coming in and it helps with the pain. Older dogs chew to keep their jaws and teeth strong, and chewing can decrease boredom and frustration. However, chewing can quickly become destructive. Dogs who develop things like separation anxiety can chew things they’re not supposed to when they’re left alone as a way to let some of the anxiety out. This article will talk about a few forms of destructive chewing habits and how to curb or stop them.
Separation Anxiety
Your pets can develop separation anxiety if they are left alone. You may notice them whining or crying when you’re getting ready to go, and this is a sign your dog has separation anxiety. They chew anything they can get ahold of when they’re left alone for extended periods of time including shoes, table legs, and chair legs. A dog chewing on things they’re not supposed to can lead to intestinal blockage and major health problems if the behavior is not corrected.
Chewing or Sucking on Fabric
Some pets will chew or suck on fabric, its believed to caused by pet’s being weaned too early. They can develop almost obsessive behavior with this type of destructive behavior, and you want to break the habit before it gets out of hand. Your pet might have one or two objects, in particular, he’s fixed on or it many just be any fabric or material he can reach.
Frustration
Your dog may chew because he gets frustrated. This behavior is particularly common in animals who spent time in shelters. They chew on their food bowls or toss it around to get attention and when they don’t get the results they want they get frustrated. This frustration leads to destructive chewing.
Ways to Stop Destructive Chewing
If your dog chewing on fabrics or furniture is driving you to distraction, there are several things you can try. There are chewing deterrents available that you spray on the areas your dog likes to chew. They don’t taste very well, and your dog will learn that chewing on that item leads to bad taste. You should provide your dog with his toys to get them to stop chewing on your valuables. If you are able, provide your dog with several exercise regimens. A tried dog will stop chewing on your things if they are too tired to do so. Lastly, don’t give your dog old household things to chew on, it will confuse him and can cause him to backslide.
This article went over different reasons why your dog could be chewing and what to do to begin to correct this behavior. If you follow these steps, you should have a happy, healthy dog and be able to leave home and not worry about your valuables being destroyed or chewed up.
