Why Does Your Dog Chew Things? Strategies to Help

Every dog owner has surely faced the problem of their pet chewing on things. It can be frustrating, especially when the dog starts chewing and destroying valuable items in the home. Understanding why dogs do this, and learning how to manage it, can help solve this problem.

Why do dogs chew?

The first step to understanding this problem is knowing its causes. Dogs chew for various reasons:

1. Teething: Young puppies often chew during teething, as it helps ease the pain and discomfort of growing teeth.
2. Boredom and lack of stimulation: Dogs that are bored or aren’t getting enough exercise and mental stimulation may start chewing things around the house to entertain themselves.
3. Anxiety and stress: Chewing can be a way for a dog to cope with stress or anxiety. It may be a reaction to a change in environment, such as moving house, or a sign that the dog doesn’t feel comfortable being alone at home.
4. Play and exploration: Chewing is a natural way for dogs to explore the world. Young dogs in particular may chew different things to find out how they taste, how they feel, and how they respond.

How to prevent chewing?

1. Chew toys: Many dogs chew because it’s satisfying and fun for them. Providing suitable chew toys can give them a safe outlet for this instinct.
2. Exercise and mental stimulation: Active and healthy dogs tend to chew less. Make sure your dog gets regular physical and mental activity. This can include long walks, games, obedience training, or puzzle toys for dogs.
3. Positive reinforcement: If your dog is chewing on things, use positive reinforcement techniques to redirect this behaviour. When your dog chews a toy instead of furniture, praise and reward them. This teaches them what’s allowed to chew and what isn’t.
4. Consulting a behaviourist: If the chewing problem is serious or caused by a stressor such as separation anxiety, consider consulting a professional animal behaviourist. A professional can help identify what’s driving this behaviour and suggest tailored solutions.
   

   A proactive approach

   Anticipating and avoiding situations that might prompt your dog to chew is key. If you know your dog tends to chew shoes, make sure they can’t get to them.

   Establish and maintain a routine for your dog. Regular meals, walks and playtime help your dog feel secure and meet their basic needs.

   When playing with your dog, avoid games that might encourage chewing, such as tug-of-war. Instead, focus on games that promote positive interaction, such as fetch.

Understanding and patience

Remember that every dog is different, and what works for one won’t necessarily work for another. Teaching your dog to stop chewing can take time and requires patience. It’s important to stay calm and never scold your dog for chewing, as this can only increase their stress and anxiety.

Remember that chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs. Our job is to redirect this behaviour towards appropriate items, such as chew toys, and help our four-legged friends understand which things in the home are off-limits.

Most importantly, understand that dogs chew for many different reasons, and it isn’t always a sign of a behavioural problem. In many cases, it’s simply part of being a dog. Often, with the right training, stimulation and patience, the chewing problem can be effectively managed.