The Problem with Destructive Chewing: A Frustration for Many Dog Owners

Why Do Dogs Chew?

Dogs chew for a number of reasons, and while it’s a natural behavior, it’s important to understand why your dog might be engaging in destructive chewing. Here are a few common reasons:

• Teething: For puppies, chewing is a natural way to soothe their gums when they’re teething. However, if they aren’t provided with appropriate chew toys, your belongings may become the next best option.
• Boredom: Dogs, especially those left alone for extended periods, may resort to chewing simply to pass the time. It’s their way of entertaining themselves.
• Anxiety or Stress: Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety or stress may chew as a way to cope with their emotions. Destructive chewing is often a sign that your dog is feeling overwhelmed or unsure.
• Curiosity: Some dogs are just curious! They explore the world with their mouths, and unfortunately, that exploration can lead them to things they shouldn’t be chewing on.

Understanding the underlying cause of your dog’s chewing is key to solving the problem. Once you know why they’re doing it, you can take steps to address the behavior in a way that keeps both your home and your dog safe.

Our Proven Track Record: Teaching Dogs Better Chewing Habits

At Dog Owner’s Academy, we’ve been helping dogs and their owners since 2008, and we’ve successfully trained nearly 5,000 dogs—including many that struggled with destructive chewing. We’ve worked with countless dog owners just like you, who were frustrated with their dog’s behavior but didn’t know how to fix it. The good news is that destructive chewing can be resolved with the right training, and we’ve got the expertise to help.

Our approach to solving this issue focuses on teaching your dog what is—and isn’t—appropriate to chew on. We use positive reinforcement techniques, guiding your dog to make better choices while keeping their natural chewing instincts in mind. Whether your dog is a puppy who’s teething or an adult who chews out of boredom or anxiety, we’ll develop a personalized plan that fits your dog’s needs.

The Benefits of In-Home Training

One of the best ways to address destructive chewing is with an in-home consultation. Here’s why in-home training is so effective:

• Personalized Training Plan: Every dog is different, and so is their chewing behavior. By visiting your home, our trainers can see the specific items your dog is drawn to and create a customized plan that targets the problem areas.
• Familiar Environment: Training in your dog’s everyday environment makes it easier to address the behavior where it happens most. Whether your dog chews on shoes, furniture, or cords, we’ll work in the spaces where the problem occurs, giving your dog real-time feedback.
• Long-Term Success: Our goal is not just to stop the behavior temporarily but to teach your dog long-lasting habits that will keep your home safe from future destruction. We’ll equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to reinforce good behavior, ensuring that the lessons stick for the long haul.

If you’re tired of coming home to chewed-up belongings and want to ensure your dog’s safety, it’s time to take action. Book an in-home consultation with Dog Owner’s Academy, and let us help you put an end to destructive chewing. With our expert guidance, you’ll not only protect your home but also ensure that your dog is happy, healthy, and engaged in positive, appropriate behaviors.

Let’s work together to turn those frustrating moments into a thing of the past. Your shoes, furniture, and peace of mind will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my dog chew on things they shouldn’t?
Dogs chew for many reasons, from teething to boredom, anxiety, or simple curiosity. Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, but it’s important to provide them with appropriate outlets to satisfy that need.

2. Can I stop my older dog from chewing on things?
Absolutely! Dogs of any age can learn to stop destructive chewing. While puppies often chew during teething, adult dogs can chew out of boredom or anxiety. With consistent training and the right approach, older dogs can break the habit, too.

3. How long does it take to stop destructive chewing?
The time it takes to stop the behavior varies from dog to dog. Some dogs may respond to training quickly, while others may take a bit longer to unlearn the habit. Our trainers will give you the tools to work with your dog consistently, ensuring progress.

4. What can I do to prevent chewing while waiting for training?
In the meantime, make sure your dog has plenty of appropriate chew toys. Remove any tempting items, like shoes or remote controls, from their reach. Supervise your dog when possible and redirect their chewing to a toy when they start to go for something they shouldn’t.

5. Is destructive chewing dangerous for my dog?
Yes, chewing on inappropriate items can be dangerous. Dogs that chew on things like electrical cords, toxic plants, or small objects could face serious health risks, such as choking, poisoning, or even internal damage. That’s why addressing the issue is so important.