Training Tip: Puppy Chewing
Many puppies like to chew on everything they encounter. Certainly, very young puppies explore the world around them by tasting most of what they find. First of all, as a practical measure, remove anything harmful from the dog’s way. Put electrical wiring behind furniture wherever possible, put cleaning supplies up out of reach or secure cabinet doors to them. Remove small objects off the floor. Second, avoid punishments such as spanking a puppy for chewing. Chewing is a natural way young puppies explore the world, exercise their jaws, and work baby teeth out of gums as adult teeth push in.
The Fix: Make sure you have a supply of allowable chewing items on hand. Whenever the dog is in a crate or small room, there should be always be some of these toys to chew on. Whenever you are at home and see the dog about to chew on something that it shouldn’t, say “AH-AH” and give the puppy one of its toys. Praise the puppy for chewing on its toys.
No one can be watching your puppy 100% of the time and that is where certain products can come in hand, such Bitter Apple which you can spray to make them taste unpleasant.
Some caveats:
(1) A few dogs are not bothered by the taste.
(2) If there is an underlying problem, it may just re-direct the puppy to another item. But these sprays will help train most puppies.
(3) You must make sure the product does not harm the item to be sprayed first. Bitter Apple and Bitter Orange are available at most pet supply stores; veterinarians have other formulations they may sell to you.
The judicious use of crating, toys and praise for chewing on those toys, and watching the puppy closely is the best way to teach it to leave your house alone.
Remember dogs are very intelligent animals. Even as puppies they can get bored. Make sure to spend time with your puppy; introduce it to the world. In the process you will help it learn what items are for chewing and what items are not for chewing.
© 2009 The City Dog
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