How To Eliminate Dog Chewing Problems
Sending your new puppy to obedience school is tres chic these days, but one thing these fancy schools don't address is the problem of dog chewing. The reason why dog chewing is not dealt with in dog obedience classes is fairly clear: there isn't anything for dogs to chew on at school. So, if you have taken your pup through obedience school and still need help preventing dog chewing, read on.
Many people think that these methods for stopping dog chewing problems are geared toward puppies. Older dogs sometimes enjoy munching on the furniture when their owners are away too, so these training techniques are effective for dog chewing problems regardless of age.
First of all, accept the fact that your dog needs to chew. Tend to this need by giving your pup some chew toys to satisfy their desire to chomp. Next, keep all of your dog's chew toys in one place. This is how you start training your dog to stop chewing.
Keeping all of your dog's chew toys in one place designates this area as an approved chewing spot. This step is required if you want to correct your dog's chewing problem. You might even want to put your dog's chew toys in a special basket or toy box to further set them apart from non-chewing areas.
Though you may be tempted, never beat or thrash your dog if you find them chewing on a non-chew-approved object, like furniture or your favorite shoes. The only way you will successfully wean your dog from chewing is by rewarding them when they chew approved items, like their chew toys.
Positive reinforcement has been proven successful when training dogs, so rewarding your puppy for good behavior is the best way to get them to stop bad behaviors like chewing. When you do find that your dog has chewed up your favorite flip-flop, a stern verbal reprimand is all that is required to send your message of disapproval. The obvious disappointment in your voice is enough punishment to do the trick.
If your dog's chewing problem requires urgent resolution, you may want to consider using a product available in pet stores called "bitter apple." This leaves a bad taste on any objects you don't want your dog to chew and thus deters them from chewing that item.
The problem of dog chewing can be eliminated with these tried-and-true dog training techniques. Training your dog is not difficult and can even be enjoyable when it is done with patience and consideration for your pet.