Read About Excessive Dog Chewing

Dogs chew, and their teeth and jaws have evolved for chewing. As its owner, you have to direct their chewing appropriately and mitigate factors that would inspire undesirable chewing.

1. Some dogs chew on stuff because they are bored. Boredom is most likely the cause if you have a very active dog. Some dogs just need more activity. If your pup is otherwise well behaved, you may wish to look into flyball or some other fun, physically engaging activity. In addition, you can start doing more things with your dog around the house or taking him on longer walks, which will offer more stimuli to your dog. If your once bored dog is busy and active, the chewing will probably decrease.

2. Some dogs chew on carpet, furniture, and shoes because there is nothing interesting, or appropriate, to chew on. Obviously, this is an easy fix. You can purchase some dog toys or bones. When you catch your dog when he is in the act of chewing on something that he shouldn't, you need to stop him with a firm "No"! Then, you should take the item chewed and replace it with an appropriate chewable item. When he is chewing on the right thing, you should praise your dog and let him know how happy you are.

3. If chewing continues, there are sprays meant to discourage chewing. Naturally, you need to be sure to test anything you want to spray in an inconspicuous spot in avoid spotting.

Chewing is a normal, healthy activity for your pet. The only time that chewing is a problem is when a dog is chewing on things you don't want him to chew up. While you train your dog what is acceptable to chew on, you also have a responsibility keep temptations lying about for your dog to pick up. Dogs are very much out of sight, out of mind animals, and you can use this to you and your puppy's advantage when training.