A puppy wanting to chew makes you want to scream! Do remember that, like children who search their new world with their hands, so do puppies search with their mouths. While there is a difference between exploratory chewing and problem chewing, the problem chewing is sometimes related to their need for attention, food or tension release. However, most of the time, puppies tend to chew because they are teething. Expect them to do so until they're about six months old.
The best thing to do is not only puppy proof your house (i.e. remove trash cans and electric cords out of the way) but to provide monitored playtime. If a puppy is left unattended, he could chew on anything from your furniture to your plants.
And, forget about blaming (or hitting or scolding) your puppy for his chewy deeds. Expecting a puppy not to chew is like telling a teething baby to stop crying because you said so. It's just not going to happen. If you make chew toys available and take away items that should not be chewed, you can get through this phase with minimal damage and most of your hair intact.
There is a need to stop your puppy from chewing on your possessions, but not to stop him from chewing all together. If you haven't taught him that chewing on certain items are bad, then he could habitually chew on those items later, not knowing what's ok to chew on and what's not. Indoors, be sure to pick up anything that the puppy could believe is a toy. Be sure that remote controls, socks and shoes are out of the way. If your puppy does chew on anything, especially furniture, then give him a play toy to chew as a substitute. Then, tell him "good boy," so that you are constantly reinforcing the habit. There are some products you can buy at pet stores that can be safely applied to furniture that make the taste unappealing.
You may want to avoid giving your dog old socks or shoes to chew on. Later, even as a dog, don't be surprised if he searches out these items to chew upon while playing or laying indoors. Also, you may think twice about giving your puppy toys that resemble your children's for these same reasons.
As stated, a certain amount of teething is normal, but puppies may chew because they're bored. Be sure to give your puppy plenty of physical and mental activities each day. When inside, rotate your puppy or dog's toys so that he doesn't become bored with the same old thing. Other experts suggest that buying a play ball and stuffing it with some tasty goodies might keep him busy chewing for hours! Another idea is to soak a clean washcloth in clean water. Then, ring it out and put it in the freezer. Once frozen, your puppy will love to chew on it as it comforts their raw gums.
If your puppy continues to teeth on items that you're trying to keep him from, then you may consider contacting a vet, especially if it's after his first six months of age. The vet may look at his gums and/or may even be able to recommend a puppy or dog behaviorist to help explain what's causing his chewing anxiety. Perhaps there is something else (internal or external) that's bothering your pup or dog.
About the Author:
Tina Spriggs is an expert dog lover whose lifelong interest in canines provides the motivation for her site. To learn more about dogs or to find gifts and toys for them visit her site at dog gifts and toys for dog lovers.
Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.
Flowerhorn Cichlids Flowerhorn cichlids is a hybrid cichlid that was... Read More
I am a happy owner of two rat terriers. They... Read More
Selling a HorseThe best new tool for people selling horses... Read More
Your cat scratching at your furniture can not only leave... Read More
Goldfish HealthcareYou would think that it's unfair that such a... Read More
On the surface playing Frisbee with your dog may seem... Read More
Are there so many great dog breeds out there that... Read More
Eclampsia, or milk fever, is an acute, life-threatening condition which... Read More
Tired of cleaning the cat box? Here are some tips... Read More
Pets provide an unconditional love that requires very little on... Read More
A dog crate is a necessity for your dog, through... Read More
Over the past couple of years, animal rescues have been... Read More
Perhaps the best way to train your westie pups not... Read More
Many parents know that the best way for children to... Read More
Let me introduce my dogs. I have 3, Nikki and... Read More
Have you ever dreamed of living with a bobcat or... Read More
Piranhas are unique creatures that have gained popularity not just... Read More
When I first started my interest in reptiles I was... Read More
Kittens are and have always been adorable creatures. Of course,... Read More
To vaccinate or not to vaccinate? That's become the burning... Read More
Nobody likes ticks.In fact, when it comes to ticks I... Read More
There is a dangerous problem that horse owners should be... Read More
Animal Communication, or telepathy with animals, is as common an... Read More
If you're like me, then you don't really have the... Read More
Caring for a kitten is a lot of work. With... Read More
Antigo wedding limo ..A German Shepherd puppy can become a very welcome member... Read More
As dogs grow older, their senses become less sharp and... Read More
Because it is imperative that discus fish have optimal water... Read More
Dog training is definitely not rocket science and is easier... Read More
The greatest benefits of ownership is knowing that your property... Read More
Puppy CarePuppy care can be a lot of work, but... Read More
Just because we moved out to the country a couple... Read More
Over the past decade, breed rescue groups have become a... Read More
Boxer dogs are an all around great breed, especially skilled... Read More
Piranhas are unique creatures that have gained popularity not just... Read More
Some Dogs like Boxers unfortunately, are prone to several potential... Read More
Now that you're dog has shown you so much love... Read More
Anyone wanting a new kitten should be a cat lover.... Read More
Many people don't realize that their dogs, just like human... Read More
You may wish to consider a chinchilla as a possible... Read More
There may be no warning before dog worms strike.It was... Read More
Like us, birds need variety in life. To be happy... Read More
Bringing home a Pug can change our life, but it... Read More
Dogs are believed to be descendants of wild wolves. They... Read More
While your friends and family are amazed that you're raising... Read More
As much as you love the sound of your new... Read More
Have you ever dreamed of living with a bobcat or... Read More
Canine Parvovirus, is a viral disease that attacks dogs and... Read More
Dogs need mental and physical stimulation. They're also very inquisitive... Read More
If you are keen on breeding Goldfish, you should know... Read More
Pet |