Why Dogs Love to Chew: Understanding Their Chewing Habi
Part 1: Understanding Why Dogs Chew on Things
1. Excess Energy. Dogs, when wellfed with highprotein diets, may have a surplus of energy if not adequately exercised. This excess energy can manifest in destructive behaviors like chewing on things.
2. Teething Period. Puppies going through their teething phase often experience discomfort and may seek out hard objects to chew on, helping to soothe their aching gums.
3. Anxiety and Loneliness. Left alone for extended periods, dogs can become anxious, lonely, or bored, leading them to chew on items that carry their owner's scent as a comfort.
So, remember, if your dog is misbehaving, you might have a part to play in addressing the root cause!
Part 2: Solutions to Stop Dogs from Chewing
1. Increase Physical Activity. Take your dog out for regular walks to burn off excess energy. Be prepared to adjust your schedule, perhaps by waking up a bit earlier to go for a jog with your furry friend. This not only benefits your dog's energy levels but also improves your own health. After a tiring morning run, feed your dog breakfast, and they'll likely be too exhausted to cause trouble while you're at work. If early mornings aren't an option, evening walks become a must.
2. Provide Teething Toys. During the puppy's teething phase, offer appropriate chew toys like fake bones or hard balls to help them deal with the discomfort.
3. Immediate Correction. When you catch your dog in the act of chewing something inappropriate, address it promptly and firmly. This will teach them that such behavior is not acceptable.
4. Attend to Your Dog's Emotions. Spend quality time with your dog to prevent feelings of anxiety and boredom. If you live alone with your pet, make sure to carve out time for companionship.
Lastly, Dr. Oxygen Pet suggests that when leaving your home, keep separation anxiety to a minimum. Avoid excessive emotional display, as it can exacerbate your dog's anxiety. To ensure a pleasant surprise rather than a shock upon your return, make sure to implement the above strategies!
