Pedigree Dogs Vet – Bad Behaviour – chewing

Have you ever been getting ready to go out to dinner and your dog is sitting in its bed gleefully shredding your shoes or dress?  Or have you gone off to the shop and come back 10 minutes later to discover that you have no skirting boards left?  For dogs, chewing is a normal behaviour.  Puppies will not only chew when they are teething, but also out of curiosity.  Older dogs enjoy chewing objects because it keeps them entertained, and it also helps to brush their teeth.  However, some dogs that chew on objects tend to swallow them.  This can cause intestinal obstruction and require a trip to the vet for possible surgery.

So how do you train a dog to chew it toys and not your prized possessions?  Don’t leave shoes, bags, toys, etc. lying around the house where your dog can reach.  Offer your dog a variety of toys, including nylon, and rubber bones, balls, plush toys, and rawhide to name a few.  It is best to rotate the toys so that your dog does not get bored.  If your dog starts to chew on something that it isn’t supposed to, then say no and give it one of its own toys.  Do not use shoes, socks, or t-shirts because dogs aren’t able to distinguish between an old runner and a party shoe.  There are also sprays that are commercially available that you can spray on items that your dog has taken a fancy to.

Another way to prevent dogs from chewing is to crate train puppies.  Not only is a good way to house train puppies, but it also prevents dogs from chewing furniture, clothes, and shoes when you are not at home or in bed.  A crate provides a safe and secure environment for dogs, and gives you peace of mind that your dog isn’t having a feast on the legs of your new dining room table.

For further enquiries, please phone 045 480478