Dog chewing

Puppy teething and investigative dog chewing occurs in puppies and adolescent dogs, up to the age of about one year. Puppies chew as they are teething, helping the new teeth to come through. But some adolescent dogs often have a seemingly uncontrollable desire to take on evrything solid.

Dog chewing can also be because of pain in the gums, as their adult teeth are settling in, or they can be chewing their way through furniture, simply because they're bored. Dog chewing generally occurs, as young dogs attempt to explore their environment and discover new things. A pair of new shoes will be thoroughly investigated, if left out where your dog can reach them, but boredom is also a key factor for chewing.

Dogs left alone for long periods or are not getting enough mental and physical exercise, so are more likely to chew. This can lead to destructive behaviour such as chewing holes in doors, or chewing carpets.

Some dogs cannot cope with being separated from their owners and are destructive when left alone. Separation disorders can cause you dog to chew things; you wouldn't even imagine a dog could chew, such as walls, sofas and even your stairs. This can become very dangerous for your dog and extremely expensive for you. If your dog learns that chewing something forbidden makes you get up and chase them, they will quickly learn this is a great way to get attention.

Supply your dog with toys that are safe and tough enough to survive their chewing. Make sure they do not have access to places with valuable or dangerous items. More easily destroyed soft toys should always be picked up, at the end of a game. This will avoid your dog having to visit the vet because of a blockage, caused by swallowing toys.

Regularly exercise your dog and visit different environments when you walk, teach your dog what is acceptable and unacceptable chewing. Chews should be given to your dog when settling down for 'quiet time', either while you're at home or when you will be leaving them alone.. Unlike toys, chews are designed for biting and gnawing, they are vital if you want a dog to chew acceptable items, not your furniture.