Help - My Puppy Is Chewing My Best Shoes!
You may be pulling your hair out because your cute new puppy is chewing your house and possessions to bits. You may have now gathered that your little puppy can create a huge amount of damage, from picking at your carpet and scratching doors and floors, to chewing your brand new pair of very expensive shoes. As with any behavior problem there is always a reason for this.
It should be understood that chewing is a natural and healthy activity for puppies and shouldn’t be stopped. Only when the chewing becomes inappropriate,should you take action. This article will explore the main reasons for chewing and show you what action can be taken to lessen the damage that is caused.
There are many reasons why your puppy is chewing your house to shreds. The ones covered below include teething, boredom and separation anxiety.
Teething
At about 3-4 weeks your puppy’s teeth start to emerge. By 16 weeks they should start to fall out when the first permanent teeth start to break through. At this time their gums might become sore and they will want to chew a great deal to soothe their gums.
Boredom
Puppies tend to become bored quite easily. They need an outlet for their energy such as exercise and mental stimulation. Left alone for long periods of time, your puppy may quickly become bored and will turn to destructive behavior like chewing.
Separation Anxiety
Again, if a puppy is left alone for long periods he may start chewing in order to alleviate stress and separation anxiety.
Once you know what the causes for your puppy’s destructive chewing, it will help you to take remedial action. Here is some advice to help you stop inappropriate chewing.
• You could start by making a few specific toys available. Interactive and dispensing toys are good because they are designed to stimulate your puppy and hold his interest.
• By playing regularly with your dog with the toys, they are more likely to play with them when left alone because of pleasant.
• Put any items of value out of reach. You can also discourage your puppy from chewing your furniture and other objects by spraying something like Listerine or other anti-chew deterrent. You puppy will not like the taste and will stop them from chewing.
• In the beginning it is important not to leave your puppy alone for extended periods of time. Start off with a short 10 minute period and gradually build up to longer absences.
• If you are away for a period of time or cannot watch your puppy, you could confine them either in a pen or crate.
• It is important to praise your puppy when you see him chewing appropriate items. This gives positive reinforcement. On the other hand if you see your puppy chew on something he shouldn’t, say something like “no” or “stop” in a stern voice. Be sure to do this consistently.
Now that you understand the reasons for your puppy’s chewing, you should be able apply the necessary remedial course of action. It is very important to reward the desired behavior and to consistently teach your puppy what he is allowed to chew and what he is not allowed to chew.
Check out these links to read more about stopping a puppy chewing, separation anxiety in dogs and dog boredom.
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