Understanding Why Dogs Destroy Homes & Preventing the B

Part 1: Reasons Why Dogs Destroy Property

Dogs often resort to destructive behavior, such as tearing up the house, due to anxiety. Dogs naturally form strong attachments to familiar people and animals. When they see their beloved ones leave, they can become anxious. If this anxiety is not addressed, it can lead to destructive behaviors, which might target household items or even the dogs themselves. This condition is commonly known as "separation anxiety." Dogs with separation anxiety may urinate indoors, bark excessively, or destroy objects when left alone. Even welltrained dogs can exhibit such behaviors. If your dog is destructive due to separation anxiety, it's crucial not to scold or dismiss them. Instead, help them overcome this condition.

Part 2: How to Prevent Dogs from Destroying Property

1. Correct Bad Behavior Promptly

Start training your dog from a young age, as puppies are more malleable and easier to train. Once dogs are older, it's more challenging to break bad habits. Here are some tips:

Limit your dog's movement by keeping them in a confined space.

Correct their habit of chewing on furniture and other items early on.

Provide your dog with toys that are exclusively theirs.

2. Give Your Dog Sufficient Security Before Leaving

Help your dog become independent and provide them with their own space to increase their sense of security. Prepare a cozy bed or doghouse, fill it with their favorite toys, and place a dog toilet nearby. This will ensure your dog feels secure. Additionally, make sure your dog has enough water to drink before you leave.

3. Alleviate Your Dog's Anxiety

Yelling or hitting your dog to stop destructive behavior is not effective. Instead, address the root cause: their anxiety. It's important to be patient, as anxiety won't disappear overnight. Try to redirect your dog's attention from chewing furniture by providing chew toys and bones scattered around the house.

4. Encourage Your Dog to Be Alone and Develop Independence

Gradually train your dog to be alone by simulating leaving the house or isolating them temporarily. Increase their alone time, and if they show destructive behavior, gently correct them. However, if your dog remains calm and waits for your return, reward them to reinforce their independent habits.

Oxygen Pet Doctor's Tip: Correcting a dog's bad habits is not an overnight fix and requires perseverance. It's essential to persuade family members to be patient and cooperate.