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How To Stop Your Puppy’s Inappropriate Chewing Problem

A fairly common problem most pawrents face is inappropriate chewing in puppies and young dogs. We can’t blame them though as these curious babies use their mouths as means of exploring this whole new world to them! Chewing is a normal behavior for puppies but becomes undesirable behavior when it involves objects such as your shoes, furniture, or even your hands and feet. Nobody wants to return home and find their belongings torn and chewed up to bits!

Fortunately, chewing can be directed onto appropriate items so your dog isn't destroying things you value or jeopardizing their own safety. Until they've learned what they can and can't chew, it's your responsibility to manage the situation as much as possible, so they don't have the opportunity to chew on unacceptable objects.


Here are the some steps you can take to correct inappropriate dog chewing before it becomes a problem:


1. Supervision

Keep an eye on your pup until they learn the house rules! If you're unable to keep an eye on them, choose a "safe place" that's dog-proof, and provide fresh water and "safe" toys. If your dog is crate trained, you may also place them in their crate for short periods of time.


2. Exercise


Provide them with plenty of physical and mental exercise. If your dog is bored, they'll find something to do to amuse themselves and you probably won't like the choices they make. On the other hand, a tired dog is a good dog, so make sure they get lots of physical and mental activity. 

3. Distract them

If you catch your dog chewing on something they shouldn't, interrupt the behavior with a loud noise. Offer them an acceptable chew toy instead, and praise them when they take the toy in their mouth.

4.Chew Toys

If your puppy is teething, try giving them chew toys. Chew toys encourage non destructive chewing routines while satisfying the natural urge to chew. Alternatively, you can get chew toys that you can chill and freeze.. The cold will soothe their gums. 

5. Taste Deterrent 

Make items unpleasant to your dog. Furniture and other items can be coated with a taste deterrent to make them unappealing.
Caution: Supervise your dog when you first try one of these deterrents. Some dogs will chew an object even if it's coated with a taste deterrent. Also be aware that you must reapply some of these deterrents to maintain their effectiveness.

6. Use Treats

Offer your dog a treat in exchange for the item in their mouth. As your dog catches on to this idea, you can add the command "Give" as their cue to release the object in exchange for the yummy treat.


7.Don’t Chase Them

Don't chase your dog if they grab an object and run. If you chase them, you are only giving your dog what they want. Being chased by their human is fun! Instead call them to you or offer them a treat.

  
As tempting as it is to discipline them with negative punishments, such as spanking or hitting them, it might only make matters worse and make them become even more destructive. Try punishing them by scolding them and confiscating whatever they were nibbling on. Remember, even if you’re sure that your dog is eventually going to chew everything you own, there is a way to help them get over this destructive habit. With a little patience, a lot of love and some supplies, your fur kid will learn the difference between a chewy treat and a pair of shoes!   

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