The arrival of a puppy at home is a great novelty and requires adaptations that often go against expectations, especially for those who are dealing with pets for the first time.
One of the questions that arises is when the dog likes to gnaw on things and starts to destroy everything that appears ahead. It’s distressing to try the most varied strategies, covering the furniture with plastic or blankets, leaving chairs on top of the sofa, in short… turning the house into an aesthetically unpleasant place.
But calm down! There is a way! Initially, it’s important to know that the puppy really likes to chew and that’s what we’re going to talk about in today’s post. Follow!
Contents
A MATTER OF BEHAVIOR
As human beings, we go through different phases of life and, for each phase, certain behavior is expected: there is a moment to walk, talk, eat alone, etc. In the initial phases, it is also expected that the steps are accompanied by someone responsible, who offers the necessary stimuli and conditions to support the development.
The same thing happens with pets, there are behaviors that are part of the phases they are living.
Gnawing, for example, is something inherent in the behavior of puppies, but it can also be seen in adults. The reasons for this need are diverse, such as exercising the jaw, keeping moving, expending energy, fighting boredom, wanting to leave a place where he feels confined, cleaning his teeth…
When they are puppies, there is still the teeth growth process , which makes him feel the need to scratch his gums, for example. As tutors, we must offer the necessary conditions so that they can meet their needs, which will certainly make us more relaxed as well.
Speaking of reassurance, gnawing behavior in adult dogs can also be related to anxiety, in addition to the aforementioned need to exercise.
See more great tips on how to take care of pets at home
WHAT DOES THE PUPPY LIKE TO CHEW?
Take a good look at the fact that the puppies gnaw the most different textures and densities. With this we see objects such as shoes, bags, books, among others, and furniture such as table legs, wardrobes, sofas and doors, making it impossible to list all the possibilities. Depending on race and size , destruction is proportionate.
Some solutions are available in specialized stores to help pets in the stages when they just want to chew everything in front of them.
7 OWNER ACTIONS TO PREVENT DOGS FROM CHEWING
1. CHECK YOUR PET’S ROUTINE
It is very important to check that all the pet’s needs are covered:
- regularity in feeding times : if the puppy stays hungry for a long time, it may start to gnaw on objects;
- frequency of walks : it may be necessary to take it more than once a day;
- moments for games : running and picking up objects in the air are some ways to help you spend energy;
- time they are alone at home : prolonged loneliness can lead pets to stress, resulting in destructive behaviors.
Yes, just with this small list, you can already see that these are responsibilities that do not depend on the pets, it is up to the caregivers to organize and adapt their own routines to the needs of the new companions. Retribution will come in the form of fun and affection galore!
2. CHECK IF HEALTH IS UP TO DATE
Having up-to- date veterinary consultations and exams also helps to eliminate the possibilities that are leading dogs to gnaw what is not intended for this purpose.
This point is accurate, because destructive behavior can be related to behavioral problems (anxiety is one of them), oral and neurological problems, among others.
3. OFFER TEETHER OPTIONS
Observing the actions raised in the two previous items, it is time to offer options for the pets, considering their characteristics. If they prefer harder or softer objects, as well as the time they take to destroy them, as this will affect both the texture and the size or quantity of toys that have to be made available to them.
Teethers are ways to help the dog that likes to chew to forget about the furniture, as long as you hit what will be pleasant for him. Pay close attention to the material, which must be resistant and not break to avoid risks to the puppies. It may be necessary to offer more than one toy option.
4. SHOW SATISFACTION AND ENCOURAGE
It’s not just the fact of offering a toy that he will adapt and that’s it! It is important to encourage its use. When he picks up the toy, say words of encouragement and demonstrate your enjoyment of the toy. Another option is to offer snacks.
5. DIVERT HIS ATTENTION
When he starts to gnaw on an object or piece of furniture, scold him in a way that is understandable to him. Some examples are:
- point to the object and say no firmly;
- move away from the object;
- touching him on the shoulder while saying no;
- offer what he is authorized to gnaw on.
6. SEEK PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
Investing in professional training is a solution for those who don’t have the time or anyone to share this role with. The same is true if you notice that the dog needs to walk and play longer. Hiring someone for this purpose will avoid problems other than gnawing things.
Remembering that, although we used the word problem here, chewing is a need for pets, it is part of their nature and is necessary for their good development.
7. IF NECESSARY, USE DOG REPELLENT
The ideal is not to have to make frequent use of this type of product, which is available in specialized stores in the spray option. Some homemade products, such as citrus, vinegar, among others, are repellent options because of the sensitivity of kittens to smells. However, the key thing is to consult a trusted professional to understand what is best suited for your pet.
