Dog Behavior Training for Destructive Chewing

Author: Trevor

One of the many things you have to deal with in bringing your pet into your house is the problem of dog behavior training for destructive chewing. Dogs carry out destructive chewing for three main reasons, they are simply bored, they find it pleasurable to do so, or they find it helps get them through emotional times. The nearest human equivalent for which might be to consume a bar of chocolate!

Anything that gets in the way of this chewing normally ends up in poor state. If you think about it there are lots of sharp, pointed teeth in your dog’s mouth and they generally get the better of anything put in their way.

This is okay of the chewing is directed at their play things but very quickly becomes a problem if it is your own possessions and those of your family that are being destroyed by this destructive chewing.

How To Avoid Your Possessions Being Destroyed

The first tip is to not place valuable objects in the way of temptation. Just as you would ensure your house is baby proof you need to think about putting things away that you would rather your dog not find. There is no need to tempt fate after all.

In addition, when hiding things be aware of just how agile your dog is. How high can she reach when standing on her back legs for example?

Consider that common targets in the home include books, eyewear, clothing, shoes, garbage, and small appliances like cameras, cell phones, and remote controls.

It should not need saying that food needs to be put away very securely. Put loose food in containers and into cupboards, rinse dirty plates soon after your meal and remember that low tables are easily reached for a quick snack, especially when having people round.

The phrase prevention is better than cure applies to dog behavior training too; if your dog is not given the opportunity to discover the delights of chewing a forbidden item then it is a lot easier for her to learn your house rules.

Never weaken your position by allowing your dog to chew items you no longer need, for instance old shoes. Once she has the taste, do not be surprised to find shoes you care about being treated to the same destructive chewing.

Think about providing your dog with lots of alternative tasty objects that she can chew. Take a look around your local pet store for tough items such as rubber bones and balls etc., buy a few and rotate their use as a way to keep your dog behavior training interesting.

Finally, when you catch your dog chewing something inappropriate is sure to interrupt her immediately and provide a suitable alternative and give lavish praise when this is accepted as a way of reinforcing good behavior.