Well, let’s start by saying that dogs like to chew; they
have strong jaw muscles and will exercise them when they
can. So, if chewing is a problem, because it’s more than
bones that get chewed, then training your dog is essential.
Remember that, training not only protects the items you
cherish, it can also protect your dog too!
If you have a puppy, then this is an ideal time to start
your training, but sometimes you acquire an older dog, so
lessons need to start later in your dog’s life. So what’s
the first lesson? Well to remove all temptation and keep the
things he likes to chew, such as slippers, socks and the
like well out of the way. Remember dogs can be agile when
they want something badly enough, so keep items tidied away
and behind closed doors if possible.
Having taken away the tempting items, find something which
you are happy for him to chew on, like one of his toys or a
rubber bone. If you have just got your cheeky pup, you can
find a whole collection of chewable items at your local pet
shop. But hey, don’t take the fun out of the selection
process, take your dog along with you and see what catches
his eye. At least now you have something that interests him
and that you are happy for him to chew on.
If you now catch him chewing on something he is not
supposed, you have to make sure he realises he is doing
wrong. So first shout “stop that” in a sharp tone and give
him a gentle tap and take the object away from him. This is
all you need do until the message gets through. Whatever you
do, don’t try harsh punishment and be heavy handed by
hitting him – you will only build up resentment, but you
neeed to take action each time you see the wrong thing being
chewed.
As part of your training process, you could leave him a
selection of items to choose from and reward him when he
picks the right one and chastise him if he looks to be going
for the wrong one.
Whatever you do, just be patient. Your dog will learn from
you, but it will take time. Be kind, persistent and firm.
Make sure he fully understands what’s right and what’s not!
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