Chewing is a normal dog behaviour, but they can chew on things we don’t want them to, especially when they are at the puppy and adolescent stage. Bear in mind at these stages your dog may be frustrated due to hormones and even in pain from teething. To prevent them from chewing on things you can follow these steps.
Offer alternatives: Make sure your puppy has a variety of chew toys that they are allowed to chew on. Choose toys with different textures to keep them engaged. Redirect their chewing: If you catch your puppy chewing on something inappropriate, calmly interrupt them and guide them toward an appropriate chew toy. Praise and reward when they start chewing on the toy.
Reward appropriate chewing: Whenever your puppy chews on the correct toy, immediately give praise and offer a treat. This helps them associate good behaviour with rewards. Engage in playtime with toys: Play with your puppy using their toys. This makes the toy more interesting and reinforces positive associations with chewing the right items.
Puppy-proof your home: Keep items you don’t want your puppy chewing (shoes, cables, furniture, etc.) out of reach.
Use barriers or crates when unsupervised: When you can’t watch your puppy closely, confine them to a safe space with toys to minimize opportunities for destructive chewing.
Don’t worry I am going teach you how to train a ‘leave it’ in class!
Tire them out: Puppies often chew out of boredom or excess energy. Ensure they get plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation through play, training, and puzzles.
Being consistent with redirecting and rewarding appropriate behaviour will teach your puppy what’s acceptable to chew and help eliminate unwanted chewing.
