How To Keep A Dog From Chewing Everything Up
As a dog lover, I have experienced my own “dog diary” experiences … you know the dear diary, my dog did (insert horrible action here). Recently, I was asked by a friend how I got my dog to stop chewing on everything, and this is what I told them.
Dogs Like To Chew, No Matter What Age
The fact is, dogs like to chew on things. They are wired for it. In their pup years, they will chew on anything that is around because they might be teething or scared. As they get older, their desire might be from the lack of discipline that the received growing up.
Another reason why dogs like to chew things is because they are lonely and want attention. If you are gone for long periods of time, this can create loneliness and/or anxiety for your dog. Another factor could be new surroundings. Humans aren’t much different than dogs … we don’t really enjoy change, especially a change that with didn’t initiate. If you just recently moved, your dog may be acting out from fear or lack of comfortability in your new environment.
Tips That Can Help You Keep Your Dog From Chewing Up Everything
1. Buy them a chew toy and reinforce “good behavior” when they chew on it.
2. Move them from the area that is causing them to chew everything up.
3. Move your personal belongings if possible; Don’t give them much to work with.
4. Store them in a size-appropriate crate while gone.
Understanding why your dog is chewing everything up is one step closer to enjoying them for years to come. Work with them, as they really just don’t know what else to do.
