Is Your Dog's Chewing and Teething Driving you Crazy?

There are many reasons your puppy or dog may be chewing on anything and everything- needing to release stress or energy, teething, or even genetics (it can be bred into certain breeds).

1. When you first bring your puppy home, your puppy is like a baby or toddler, curious, mischievous and also will learn to love the smell of anything that reminds him of you (shoes, clothes, etc)! Make sure to puppy proof your home and keep the floor clear of items like shoes, clothing, electrical cords, or anything a puppy shouldn't be chewing on. You can't get mad at your puppy for chewing on something that you left out that smells just like his favorite people!

2. Puppies and dogs need mental stimulation to release energy and chewing is one way to release that energy. So be sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise first thing in the morning, go for a walk, or throw them a ball in the backyard for 30 minutes or so, again midday and then another play time in the evening. Another good way to release some energy is to make them sniff for their breakfast, as sniffing also helps release that energy. Take their kibble, and hide it in a snuffle mat or puzzle toy, or scatter it all over your porch, down the steps, etc. Make them work for their food!

3. If you can't supervise them, they should be in their crate with a safe favorite chew, or in a playpen with plenty of things they love to keep them busy.

4. Keep several different kinds of chews and puzzle toys on hand, so they don't get bored with just one! Be careful to do your research though, and don't use things like rawhide, which can be dangerous if ingested and cause intestinal blockages!

5. I find our dogs only love things that are 'real' like cow hooves, bully sticks, yak cheese, stuffed and frozen West Paw wobbles, etc. Those things will keep your dog busy for awhile, too! Don't forget to let them be a dog and chew on a good stick they find as well!

6. Using a great chew they love is also a good way to help make sure crate time is a positive experience, so they look forward to being in there!

7. If your dog is very persistent and still chewing on things he shouldn't be despite having ample things around the house he can have, consider getting some Bitter Apple Spray, and frequently apply to the forbidden objects, such as furniture.

8. For most puppies, they will usually outgrow the desperate need to chew constantly as they reach maturity, however some dogs will just always be more prone to be a "chewer". The most important things are to make sure your dog's needs are always met - plenty of exercise, attention and affection, raising them to not have anxiety issues when you are away, and supervising them. And just provide plenty of things they are allowed to chew!