How to Address Dogs' Excessive Chewing

Chewing is a typical behavior for dogs. However, when they do it excessively, they cause damage to personal property and furniture. Chewing can also pose a health risk to your fur buddies. Fortunately, there are strategies to manage such behaviour.

Why Dogs Chew?

Boredom, curiosity, frustration, teething, hunger, and instinct are some of the reasons why your dogs chew. You can determine the main reason by observing. If it’s health reasons, contact your vet immediately.

Dangers of Excessive Chewing

Excessive chewing poses health risks. It may cause different dental issues and injuries, while the pieces of the materials they chew can block the airways and choke. Some dogs also chew electrical cords that may cause electrocution.

Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

Dogs have an instinct to chew and bite. So, invest in safe dog chew toys to save yourself from headaches and expensive vet treatments. These toys will redirect their natural behaviour, satisfy their chewing urge, and distract them from destructive chewing.

Supervise and Limit Access

Limiting access to areas where they can chew is also wise until your dog's chewing behavior subsides. This can involve using a gate or closing the doors to keep them from entering the rooms where they can chew, or you can supervise them when they roam around the house.

You can also use a crate filled with chew toys to keep them from chewing on your shoes and furniture.

Train and Reinforce Command Cues

Teach your dog basic commands like “stop” and “drop it” to eliminate chewing behaviour. You can start by repeatedly mentioning such commands with gestures until they realize they must stop chewing. Then, reward them. Repeat until you establish a strong association between the commands and appropriate behaviour.

Provide Physical and Mental Stimulation

Many dogs chew out of boredom and lack of mental stimulation. Ensure that your dog gets enough exercise by playing with them and walking. You can also buy mentally stimulating toys to keep them entertained while exercising. Remember, a tired, happy, and mentally simulated dog won’t have the energy to chew.

Use Deterrent Products

You can also use deterrent but pet-safe products such as bitter sprays, citrus, and citronella to discourage your dogs from chewing. You can spray or apply such deterrent products on objects and furniture.

Address Underlying Health Issues

Some health issues, like allergies, cause dogs to chew excessively. If you suspect your dog has underlying health problems or has suddenly turned to chewing, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Be Consistent and Patient

Though addressing excessive chewing will take some time, you can successfully train your dogs with patience and consistency. Such behaviour may take a hit on your thread, but avoid punishment and harsh discipline. Stick to rewards, positive reinforcement, and redirection.

Excessive chewing is a behaviour that can be addressed by following the strategies we mentioned above. Remember that these strategies are effective when implemented with love and understanding. If the problem persists, you can contact a professional dog trainer.