Scratching, digging, rolling in mud, barking and chewing are common dog behaviors. Dogs are one of the most loved pets. It would not be surprising given the significant influence these animals made on the quality of humans lives. However, it cannot be denied that some of the unwanted behaviors of the pet would make an owner want to leave the pet to a rescue center. A dog’s chewing habit that has become destructive would naturally be a cause for concern. A pet owner that needs to replace the things destroyed by the dog would certainly be annoyed by the pet’s excessive chewing habit.
Chewing is innate in dogs. At three months, puppies would start chewing to try the strength of their teeth . In the absence of hands, puppies use their mouth and teeth to investigate their surroundings . These lovable fur balls are forever curious and gnawing at things is their way of learning about the environment . Teething pains entices puppies to chew more. Teethers are commonly given to teething babies to lessen the pain and to strengthen the gums. Puppies would manage their own teething pains by gnawing the brand new rug or the leg of antique furniture. This destructive chewing has other repercussions. A dog that has been chewing can swallow an object that can create a life threatening blockage. Indiscriminate chewing in puppies can be managed easily by providing the confined pet with safe chew toys. Generally, puppies outgrow the tendency to chew excessively.
What concerns most owners is when a well behaved mature dog suddenly grow into an indiscriminate and excessively chewing pet. There must be a reason why the dog has suddenly gone destructive. Boredom, loneliness, inactivity are the most common causes of destructive chewing. Knowing why dogs chew is only the first step. You must also know what to do when it chews. Dogs are one of the animals that crave interaction. A dog is not similar to a cat that would be contented to stare into space alone all day. A dog would need to have another dog or a person to interact with. Naturally, dogs would not know the value of things. A dog pining for its master would be enticed by the shoe that has the master’s scent. Being energetic, dogs have to be provided with opportunities to let off steam. Dog owners must be aware that it would not be a good idea to confine the pet with no toys or playmate inside the house as with most certainty, the dog will develop into a destructive pet.
Learn more about destructive chewing and combat excessive chewing in your dog by reading more about what to do when your dog chews.
Comments on this entry are closed.