Dogs are natural chewers. From the time they are puppies, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. While chewing is a normal behaviour, it can become problematic when your furry friend starts gnawing on inappropriate objects, like furniture, shoes, or even electrical cords. Here are some effective tips to help you curb this behaviour and protect your belongings.

Before you can stop the chewing, it’s important to understand why your dog is doing it. Common reasons include:

Teething: Puppies, like babies, go through a teething phase where chewing helps alleviate the discomfort. During this time, their gums are sore, and chewing can provide relief. It's crucial to provide puppies with suitable teething toys to help them through this phase.

Boredom: Dogs left alone for long periods might chew out of boredom. If a dog doesn't have enough mental and physical stimulation, they will find their own entertainment, which often involves chewing on anything available. Ensuring your dog has plenty to do can reduce this type of chewing.

Anxiety: Separation anxiety or other forms of stress can lead to destructive chewing. Dogs may chew to self-soothe when they are feeling anxious. This type of chewing often occurs when the dog is left alone and may be accompanied by other signs of anxiety, such as pacing, whining, or barking.

Lack of Exercise: A dog with excess energy might channel it into chewing. Dogs need regular exercise to expend their energy. Without adequate physical activity, they may turn to chewing as a way to release pent-up energy.

Ensure your dog has plenty of appropriate items to chew on. This can include:

Chew Toys: Invest in durable, safe chew toys. There are many varieties, from rubber toys to edible chews. Look for toys that are specifically designed for chewing and are the right size for your dog. Rotate the toys regularly to keep your dog interested.

Bones: Real bones or synthetic bones designed for dogs can be very satisfying for a strong chewer. Be sure to choose bones that are appropriate for your dog's size and chewing strength to avoid any potential choking hazards or dental damage.

Dental Chews: These not only help with chewing but also promote dental health. Dental chews can reduce plaque and tartar build-up, helping to keep your dog's teeth clean and healthy. Ensure the dental chews are suitable for your dog's dietary needs and chewing habits.

A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Make sure your dog gets plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation. This can be through:

Daily Walks: Regular walks or runs can help burn off energy. Depending on your dog's breed and age, they may require more than just a quick walk around the block. Consider longer walks, hikes, or runs to ensure they are sufficiently exercised.

Playtime: Interactive games like fetch or tug-of-war can keep your dog engaged. Playtime is a great way to bond with your dog while also providing them with the physical and mental stimulation they need. Try different types of games to see what your dog enjoys most.

Training Sessions: Teaching new commands or tricks can be mentally stimulating and tiring. Training sessions not only challenge your dog's mind but also strengthen your relationship. Keep the sessions short and fun to maintain your dog's interest and enthusiasm.

There are safe deterrent sprays available that taste unpleasant to dogs. Spraying these on items you don’t want your dog to chew can help discourage the behaviour.

Bitter Apple Spray: A commonly used deterrent that is safe for most dogs. Simply spray it on furniture, shoes, or other items you want your dog to avoid. The unpleasant taste will deter your dog from chewing on them.

Citrus Spray: Dogs often dislike the taste and smell of citrus. Similar to bitter apple spray, citrus deterrents can be applied to areas you want to protect. Always test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the item.

Reward your dog for chewing on appropriate items. Praise and treats can reinforce good behaviour.

Immediate Praise: When you see your dog chewing on a toy instead of your shoes, praise them immediately. Use a happy tone of voice and give lots of attention to reinforce the positive behaviour.

Treats: Offer a small treat as a reward for choosing the right item to chew. This creates a positive association with the appropriate behaviour. Make sure to use healthy treats to avoid overfeeding.

When you’re not home, confine your dog to a safe area where there are no tempting items to chew on.

Crates: Many dogs find crates to be a safe and secure space. Ensure the crate is the right size for your dog and is filled with comfortable bedding and a few chew toys. Proper crate training is important to make sure your dog sees the crate as a positive place.

Gated Areas: Use baby gates to limit access to certain rooms. This can prevent your dog from reaching items they shouldn't chew on. Set up a dog-friendly area with their toys, water, and a comfortable place to rest.

Supervision is key, especially with puppies or newly adopted dogs.

Redirecting: If you catch your dog chewing on something inappropriate, calmly redirect them to an appropriate toy. Say "no" or "leave it" firmly, then give them a toy and praise them when they chew on it instead.

Consistency: Consistently apply rules and training to reinforce what’s acceptable and what’s not. It’s crucial that all family members are on the same page and follow the same rules to avoid confusing the dog. Consistency is the cornerstone of effective training and helps your dog understand what is expected of them. When everyone applies the same rules every time, your dog learns much faster and the behaviour is more likely to stick.

If your dog’s chewing is extreme or driven by anxiety, it may be helpful to consult a vet or a professional dog trainer. They can offer tailored advice and solutions.

Veterinarian: A vet can check for any underlying medical issues that might be contributing to the chewing behaviour. They can also provide advice on dealing with anxiety or other behavioural problems.

Professional Trainer: A certified dog trainer can work with you and your dog to address chewing and other behavioural issues. They can provide personalised training plans and support to help you achieve the best results.

Chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs, but with the right approach, you can manage and direct this behaviour in a positive way. Understanding your dog’s needs, providing appropriate outlets, and using consistent training and supervision can help protect your belongings and ensure your dog remains happy and healthy.

Remember, patience and consistency are key. With time, your dog can learn what’s appropriate to chew and what’s off-limits, leading to a more harmonious home for both of you.