Chugga, Chugga, Chew, Chew
Chewing is a natural behavior for puppies and dogs of all ages.
Puppies use chewing as a means to explore the world and ease teething discomfort.
Puppies, and dogs, chew because it feels good, it provides excellent mental stimulation, and is a great way to help lower cortisol (a stress hormone) and helps dogs and puppies regulate their emotions.
What You Should NOT Do:
~Take him and show them the destruction.
~ Confine them for long periods without first giving him some enough structured physical and mental exercise.
~Allow them access to any surface that may prove dangerous when chewed like electrical cables and wood.
What you SHOULD do:
Channel Energy
Giving your dog enough physical and mental stimulation will reduce the possibility of destruction. This can be achieved by playing lots of hide and seek games in the yard and around the house, Noseworks, teaching tricks, as well as hiding toys (like a stuffed Kong) and food treats.
If you are short on time, you can use some of your dog’s daily food allowance and offer it in a puzzle toy. If a puzzle toy is not available, consider scattering the kibble on the lawn or other enclosed area and allow him to work to find and eat it all. This is a natural way of feeding and uses up reserves of both physical and tons of mental energy.
Restriction and Supervision
Confine a chewer to a “free” or “safe” area. Consider placing your dog in a crate or indoor exercise pen, or section off the kitchen or laundry room with a baby gate when you cannot watch them. Provide your dog with something to chew and be mindful of how long your dog can comfortably be isolated. Simply closing the door to tempting areas can be effective. A closed closet door will protect both your puppy and your shoes.
Rotate
It is best to rotate your chew toys every day so there is something new and exciting for the pup to chew each day. A 4 day rotation works well. If the same toys/chews are available every day then they will look for something new and fun to chew like your brand new pair of shoes!
You can view my favorite chews HERE
Remember:
~It is important to impose reasonable expectations on your dog. If leaving the dog for an extended period of time, enlist the services of friend or trusted neighbor to walk the dog. Professional dog walkers are another option for busy pet guardians
~If you don’t want something to be chewed (i.e. your favorite pair of shoes), do not leave it within your dog’s reach!
Sara Sokol is owner of Mr. Dog Training in Brunswick Maine; A positive reinforcement dog training facility, offering both virtual and in person classes, that has been voted best training in Maine for 9 years in a row.
