TrainingTips

By Ron Ducharme

Here are some tips to help stop a dog from chewing on inappropriate items:

• Provide proper chew toys: Offer your dog a variety of durable chew toys to redirect their chewing behavior. Make sure to supervise them while they are playing with toys to ensure they don't accidentally ingest any pieces.

• Exercise and mental stimulation: Make sure your dog is getting enough physical and mental stimulation throughout the day. This can help reduce their stress and prevent boredom-related chewing.

• Confine your dog: When you're not able to supervise your dog, confine them to a crate or a safe, chew-proof room.

• Discourage chewing on inappropriate items: If your dog starts chewing on something they shouldn't, interrupt the behavior with a loud noise or clap, and redirect them to a chew toy.

• Bitter sprays: You can also use bitter sprays or bitter apple on items you don't want your dog to chew. The bitter taste will discourage them from chewing on that item again.

• Training: Training your dog to understand commands such as "leave it" and "drop it" can also be useful in preventing chewing on inappropriate items.

Address any underlying issues: If your dog is chewing on inappropriate items, it may be a sign of an underlying issue, such as anxiety, fear, or dental problems. In these cases, it's important to address the root cause of the behavior and work with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer to find a solution.

Remember, every dog is different and what works for one may not work for another. If your dog's chewing behavior is persistent or causing damage, it's important to consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer for additional guidance.