Chewing…Why Do Dogs Do That Anyways ?

And why do they have to do it to everything ? Rubber mats, your slippers, wooden furniture.

Well Dogs chew for many reasons, the main culprits being boredom, dental problems, loneliness and hunger.

For instance, like human babies, puppies teethe and they chew to help relieve the ache of sore gums. Older dogs that are left alone all day in the house or backyard may find the chewing comforting or simply better than doing nothing. They may also be suffering dental problems and chew to relieve the pain, watch for signs like excessive drooling, licking and swallowing food rather than chewing it. Those can indicate to you that the dog is in need of a trip to the vet.

The best things you can do for puppies is to be patient and try not to over react when you find little Spot nibbling your favourite recliner. Just shoo them away and provide a cozy bed with some safe chew toys. Those bumpy silicone rubber types are very good as they are tough and won't have small bits breaking off that the puppy may swallow or choke on. Also the toys themselves should not be too small. Avoid fabric, rope or the ever tempting squeaky type toys for puppies as more often than not the strings or cheap plastic bits can chewed apart in minutes by a sharp toothed pup.

If loneliness or boredom is the reason, consider getting your dog another doggy companion, or hire a sitter to come and spend time with the dog. Never leave them in an area where they can access dangerous things like glass or electrical cords. Again provide age and size appropriate chew toys, maybe a raw hide bone or even a few empty or near empty water bottles for them to play and amuse themselves with.

There are many options available for dealing with destructive chewing behaviors. Mostly they require understanding and patience. Puppies will soon grow out of their habit and older dogs are not usually known for excessive chewing. Take each experience as it comes and good luck to all of you chewed-out dog lovers.