Many dog owners will find that their dog, or more specifically its teeth, has caused some damage to their furniture, shoes, or other items. While dogs use their senses of sight and smell to explore, they also love to open their mouths.

Chewing can be directed at appropriate items so that your dog doesn’t destroy things you value or put their safety in danger.

Prevention is the best medicine until they learn what they can or cannot chew. You can save money by preparing your dog for success.

Understanding your dog

Like infants and toddlers, they explore the world by putting things in their mouths. Like babies, puppies also teethe for six months. This can be uncomfortable. Teething is facilitated by chewing. It also soothes sore gums.

Adult dogs can engage in destructive chewing as a way to cope with stress or boredom. To stop this behavior, you need first to identify the reason why your dog chews. Remember, it’s not to spite you. You can blame your dog for chewing on things that are not good.

They weren’t taught as puppies what was and wasn’t acceptable for them to chew.

There is no access to chew toys that are safe and appropriate.

Fear is the cause of their behavior, and chewing helps them cope.

You may want to seek professional help if you think your dog is chewing because of separation anxiety or fear.

Every animal that is saved causes suffering to countless other animals. Create a world where animals are no longer forced to suffer in puppy mills, testing laboratories, or other heartbreaking conditions.

Teach your children what to eat

You are. Responsible for your possessions. Don’t let your dog get it if you don’t wish it to. Clothing, shoes, books, and trash should be kept out of reach. Eyeglasses, remote controls, eyeglasses, and even clothing can be dangerous to your dog. To prevent accidents, put trash in a cabinet or block off areas that have tempting items.

Please do not confuse your dog by giving him toys that can be clearly distinguished from household items. Please do not give them shoes or socks, and expect them to know the difference between your shoes and theirs.

Make sure your dog is always under your supervision and chewing on the right items. Only let them into certain areas of your house or keep them on a leash so they don’t get away from you. Select a dog-proof “safe place,” and make sure to provide fresh water and toys that are “safe.” You can also put your dog in his crate for short periods if he is crate-trained. Crates should not be used as a punishment but rather as a place where your dog can feel safe. Baby gates and exercise pens are other useful tools.

Exercise your dog physically and mentally. A bored dog will find something to entertain themselves. A tired dog is also a good dog. So make sure that they are getting plenty of mental and physical activity. Exercise should be determined by the dog’s age, health, and breed. Although daily walks and outdoor time are important for their health, letting your pup sniff will be much more rewarding than trying to walk two miles non-stop. Dogs who like to be around other dogs will enjoy a doggy daycare.

Include toys in your daily routine. Use a Kong toy to hold their kibble instead of a bowl. If your dog is a more advanced chewer, you can cover the openings in the puzzle toys with peanut butter or canned cheese and freeze it overnight. Keep a variety of toys for your dog. Novelty is more enjoyable than the same old toy. You can keep some toys hidden and then bring them out to keep your pet occupied.

When your dog is chewing something that they shouldn’t be, you can trade it for a more appropriate toy. Keep high-value treats handy to exchange them with if the item is too fun. Once your dog gets the idea, you can use the command “give,” which will allow them to exchange the item for the treat. When you remove items from your dog’s mouth, they may develop guarding behavior or even run away from you if you want to retrieve the item.

Try freezing a rubber chew toy. The cold rubber will soothe your puppy’s gums. Always supervise your dog to ensure they do not chew or swallow any pieces.

Make your dog dislike the items. You can coat furniture and other items with a deterrent to make them less appealing (such as Bitter Apple®). When you try these deterrents for the first time, be sure to supervise your dog. Some dogs will still chew on an object, even if the thing is coated with a taste-deterrent. Be aware that some deterrents need to be reapplied in order to remain effective.

Do not chase your dog when they grab something and run. You are giving them what they want. It’s fun to track your dog! Call them and give them a tasty treat instead.

Be realistic. Your dog will eventually chew something valuable. This is part of the process of moving into a new house. Your dog will need time to discover the right chew toys. Keep things out of reach and take precautions to help your dog succeed.

Punishment doesn’t work

.You may panic when your dog chews something dangerous, like a medication bottle. This is why teaching them to exchange you for treats ensures they will give up even the funniest items. You can create behavior problems by pulling or scolding your dog. Why risk losing your dog’s confidence when methods of positive reinforcement work better? This “guilty” look is actually a submissive canine posture, which dogs adopt when they are feeling threatened or insecure. Your dog may show submissive or hiding postures when you are angry and upset. They feel threatened by your body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. A positive relationship and trust with your dog are the keys to a long-lasting, happy life.