Dogs chew for various reasons, and knowing why can help in managing the behavior effectively. Let’s get into the main reasons dogs have this natural instinct.
First off, chewing is a dog’s natural need. It’s not just a quirky habit—they do it to strengthen their jaws, clean their teeth, and release calming chemicals that make them feel good.
Feeling a bit bored? So is your dog. When they don’t get enough exercise or mental stimulation, they look for entertainment and sometimes, that means chewing up your favorite things.
Anxiety is another big one. Stress and separation anxiety can lead to destructive chewing. Your dog might miss you when you’re gone, and chewing can become a way to cope with that stress.
Puppies are a special case. When they’re teething, they’ll chew to soothe their sore gums. If you’ve got a puppy, this phase is pretty inevitable, but knowing it’s natural can help you address it better.
Effective Strategies to Prevent Destructive Chewing
Tackling destructive chewing starts with managing your environment. Remove the temptations. Keep anything chew-worthy out of your dog’s reach, and puppy-proof rooms just like you would for a curious toddler.
Supervision is key. Keep an eye on your dog, especially if they’re still learning what’s okay to chew and what’s not. No one likes playing referee, but a little monitoring goes a long way.
Providing appropriate chew toys is a must. Every dog has preferences, so offer a variety to match their chewing style. Whether it’s rubber, plush, or rope, there’s something for every pup out there.
Interactive feeders and edible chews are lifesavers. They keep your dog’s brain busy and make meal times more engaging. Puzzle feeders, in particular, are fantastic for turning dinner into a fun game—keeping your dog entertained and out of trouble.
Rotate those toys regularly. Just like kids, dogs get bored with the same toys day in and day out. Swapping them out keeps things fresh and exciting.
Additional Tips to Aid in Managing Destructive Chewing
Some folks swear by Bitter Apple Spray, but let’s be real—it’s not a reliable long-term fix. Use it if you must, but don’t count on it to solve the problem entirely.
If you catch your dog mid-chew on something forbidden, stay calm. Yelling won’t help. Instead, ask them to drop or trade the item. This teaches them what’s off-limits without scaring them.
After the incident, think about how to prevent future mishaps. More exercise, a new chew toy, or some extra playtime might be just what your dog needs to keep those chompers busy in a good way.