How to Train a Dog Not to Chew?

How to Train a Dog Not to Chew? (Professional Trainer Reviewed Guide)

As a dog owner, we all know dogs love to chew everything in their site. It is a natural behavior in all dog breeds. But sometimes this behavior becomes problematic for owners when dogs begin to chew on things that they should not. 

Many dog owners find themselves at their wits' end trying to prevent their dogs from chewing on inappropriate items. Dog owners often experience frustration as they search for ways to manage their pet's chewing habits effectively.

Are you one of those dog owners who wish to train their dogs not to chew? If yes, you are in the right place. In this article, I will reveal steps you can take to train your dog not to chew on inappropriate items. Keep reading this article if you are frustrated that you cannot train your dog not to chew.

Science Behind Dogs Chewing

Before you start teaching your dog not to chew on things, you need to figure out why they do it. The reason is that chewing sometimes is necessary like when you have puppies. Puppies, like babies and little kids, explore by putting stuff in their mouths. 

Also, puppies go through teething for about six months, which can make their gums painful. Chewing things helps with the teething pain. Grown-up dogs might chew items for different reasons, like when they are stressed or bored. 

To stop this behavior, you need to find out why your dog is doing it. Then you will be successful in training your dog not to chew. Some common reasons why your dog chews things include:

1. Teething: Young puppies chew a lot when their teeth are growing in, just like human babies. It helps ease the pain in their gums. You can teach them to chew on pet-friendly toys instead of your stuff when they are still young.

2. Boredom: If your dog doesn't have much to do or doesn't get enough exercise and playtime, they might chew on things out of boredom.

3. Missing Nutrients: Some dogs chew because they are not getting all the vitamins and minerals they need from their food. Make sure they eat balanced dog food.

4. Attention: Sometimes, dogs chew things they shouldn't just to get your attention. If they see you chasing them, it can become a game for them. It might be their way of saying they want to play or spend time with you.

5. Stress or Frustration: Chewing can help dogs feel better when they are stressed or uncomfortable. This could be due to separation anxiety or something else making them anxious. It is a good idea not to leave your dog alone for more than four hours regularly.

6. Medical Reasons: If your dog's chewing habits suddenly change, it is important to visit the vet to check for any medical issues that might be causing it.

7 Tips to Train Your Dog Not to Chew

If you want your dog to stop chewing on things follow these seven simple tips:

1. Show Them the Right Things to Chew: If you see your dog chewing on something, you should make him realize that this is not acceptable and guide him to a suitable chew toy. And praise him when he uses chewable toys. Using this technique, your dog will understand that if he chews on something he is not supposed to chew on, he will not receive treats (praise). You can make these toys even more fun by putting treats or peanut butter inside.

2. Keep Your Stuff Safe: If you don't want your dog to get hold of something, make sure it is out of reach. I find this to be really effective in the case of stubborn dogs. Put away your clothes, shoes, and personal stuff where your dog can't reach them. This will stop your dog from wanting to chew on them and make it easier to get their attention back on the right toys.

3. Keep Them Busy: Dogs need mental exercise just like they need physical activity. They are always on the lookout for something to do, such as playing, chewing, running, and exploring. If your dog gets bored, they might start chewing on things they shouldn't. Keep them occupied by teaching them new tricks or commands every day. You can also consider signing up for a dog training class. It is fun and helps you bond with your dog.

4. Get a Variety of Fun Chew Toys: Make sure your dog has lots of safe and enjoyable chew toys to choose from. There are many options, like rubber toys you can put treats in, snacks that last a long time, and raw bones if you are into raw feeding. Just make sure the toys match your dog's size and chew strength and do not pose any harm.

5. Keep an Eye on Them: Supervise your dog until they understand what is right to chew and what is not. Keep a close eye on your dog and notice when they are engaging with an appropriate toy. Tell them they are a good dog and give them a treat. This helps them remember what is right and wrong.

6. Help Them Relax: If your dog chews because they are stressed or anxious, it is important to address the underlying cause. Try to calm your dog. Sit beside your dog and talk to him with a soft relaxing voice. Make your dog realize that you are with him. You can use a special calming device to help your dog relax and stop chewing. You can also use machines that block background noises to create a peaceful environment.

7. Avoid Scolding: Don't get mad at your dog for chewing on the wrong things. According to experts, punishment does not work when you are trying to correct your dog. They don't understand it the way we do, and it might make them scared or nervous. Instead, gently shift their attention to a good chew toy and cheer them on when they use it correctly.

Conclusion

Training a dog not to chew on inappropriate items requires patience, consistency, and understanding. Providing your dog with appropriate chew toys and increasing their opportunities for mental stimulation can redirect their chewing behavior. 

Remember to be vigilant, prevent the problem from happening, and avoid scolding your dog. With time and effort, I am sure you can teach your dog not to chew on inappropriate items and enjoy a happy, healthy relationship.