Dogs and chewing - sounds like a recipe for disaster, right? Dogs
have a knack for finding the worst things to chew on, be it your
favorite shoes or a piece of important paperwork. It can seem like
they're just out to cause trouble but believe it or not, chewing should
be encouraged when it's done in a constructive manner.
“How could chewing possibly be good?” you might wonder. It's simple - chewing is in a dog's genes. It’s is a natural way
that dogs explore their world, whether they are a puppy or a senior.
Sometimes
dogs chew out of boredom or anxiety, or because of sore teeth or gums.
Your dog's chewing behaviors can increase when she doesn't get enough
mental stimulation and exercise. Or she can just be seeking your
attention...is your dog trying to get a little more of your time?
Inappropriate
chewing - that is, chewing on things that she shouldn't be chewing on --
is a problem that most dog owners
confront at some stage of their dog's life. And not only are chewing
problems annoying to you, they can be dangerous for your dog. Chewing on
the wrong items such as electrical wires, poisonous materials, or
objects that splinter can have disastrous consequences.
On the other hand, chewing on the right objects can enhance your dog's health and well-being. The physical act of chewing helps relieve anxiety and boredom, and helps your dog feel secure and content.
How
do you get your dog to chew on appropriate items?
1.
First, clear your dog's environment of things you don't want her to chew
on. That means picking up shoes, toys, and other objects you don't want
destroyed or that can harm your pet if chewed. Just because they've
never done it before doesn't always mean that they won't ever start
chewing. Keep in mind that your dog doesn't chew to spite you; she's just
doing what instinct tells her to.
2. Always provide your dogs
with tasty, safe chew toys. As you leave for work in the morning, leave
her a toy stuffed with treats to help reinforce the idea of appropriate
chewing.
3. When you catch your dog chewing something she
shouldn't, firmly tell him "No!". Quickly replace the inappropriate item
with a tasty chew toy. Lavish praise as she starts chewing the toy.
Reprimanding your dog for inappropriate chewing MUST always be immediate
and ONLY when she's caught in the act-never after the chewing is already
done, like when you find the remains of your favorite shoes upon
returning home. This reinforcement doesn't need to be severe! A raised
voice is enough to send the message that this chewing is not OK.
So how can appropriate chew toys help your dog?
1. If the toy is designed for promoting dental hygiene, it can help support dental health by helping to scrape away plaque and tartar buildup, and maintain healthy gums. The right ingredients can even
improve foul doggy breath.
2. A good chew toy can provide stimulating activity
by challenging your dog's mind and keeping her entertained. This is
especially important for older dogs that may typically be less active.
3. A safe, well-designed chew toy can help satisfy your dog's innate urge to chew and help avoid destructive chewing behavior from both puppies and adult dogs.
Happy chewing fellow K9s! Hana Banana
Serving the St Croix Valley of WI & MN
Our Training Programs are Uniquely Focused on You & Your Canine Friend. Our FORCE FREE training is a line of communication to help your dog learn what you what him to do, not forcing him to do it. No pinch collars, no choke collars...we don't use them because pain is never used with our training methods.
You need to email or fax K9 Playtime proof of vaccinations (bill or certificate from vet clinic) at least 2 business days prior to the start of classes. All dogs are REQUIRED to have Distemper/Parvo, Rabies (except puppies under the age of 16 weeks), and Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccines prior to coming. NO EXCEPTIONS.
10% off one class when you present your dog's Adoption Contract from any organization. (Does not include Community Ed classes.)