Why Dogs Love to Chew Slippers & How to Break the Habit

Why Dogs Love to Chew on Things

1. Teething Needs

During the 4 to 6month mark, puppies begin to grow their permanent teeth. This stage often prompts them to gnaw on hard objects to help their new teeth emerge properly. However, if the owner frequently feeds their dog soft food and neglects to provide durable chew toys, the pup might set its sights on the owner's sturdy slippers. Moreover, even outside of teething, dogs require regular dental exercise as their teeth continue to grow. Overgrown teeth can severely impact their eating and lead to serious health issues. Therefore, it's crucial for pet owners to ensure their furry friends have access to appropriate chew toys and treats to prevent overgrown teeth and to avoid the habit of chewing on slippers.

2. Attracted by the Scent of the Owner's Slippers

Some dogs are drawn to their owner's slippers simply because they carry the familiar scent of their human. To a dog, this smell is comforting and familiar. This can lead to a dog sniffing or biting at the slippers, especially when they're home alone and feeling lonely or seeking attention. Even if they know it might result in punishment. Essentially, some dogs chew on slippers out of a lack of companionship. It's recommended that pet owners spend more quality time with their pets, engaging in play and showing affection to make them feel loved. Additionally, placing an old piece of the owner's clothing in the dog's bed can provide a sense of security.

3. Curiosity Gets the Best of Them

Adult dogs typically explore new things by sniffing or touching, but young dogs are more impulsive and curious about the world around them, including food. When they're intrigued by an object, they may resort to chewing it. In such cases, pet owners should ensure that items not meant for chewing are kept out of reach of young dogs.

4. Pica, or Compulsive Eating

Dogs with pica may eat anything and everything, often due to a deficiency in trace minerals. If a dog's compulsive eating is caused by pica, the owner should address the issue by adjusting the dog's diet to include the necessary trace minerals. A balanced and nutritious diet can help alleviate pica and the associated chewing behavior.

With the above information from Oxygen Pet Doctor, pet owners should now have a clearer understanding of why their dogs chew on slippers. By identifying the specific cause of this behavior in their pet, they can take appropriate measures to address it. If the dog is intentionally chewing on slippers as a mischievous habit, it's important for the owner to correct this behavior through gentle discipline.