Dog chewing slippers

Dogs use their mouths like we use our hands. They eat, drink and play with their mouths. Is it then surprising that they want to put everything in their mouths including your slippers?

What we need to do is teach them what is an acceptable chewing toy and what isn't.

But first lets look at some of the causes of this common destructive behaviour:

• Your dogs toys are scattered all around the house. If they get mixed up with other items how is your dog going to know what is or isn't a chewing toy?

• You leave your dog alone unsupervised with the full run of the house. When he gets bored, guess what he's going to find something to do. That could include chewing everything in sight.

• If you have a puppy he could be teething - give him something safe to chew on like a Gumabone

• You have given your dog an old slipper or shoe to play with at some time (he can't tell the difference between old and new slippers)

• He is bored

So how do we correct the problem?

Keep all his toys in one place where he can access them easily. If he picks up something he shouldn't, call him to you and swap it for one of his favorite toys. (your dog should not have permanent access to his favorite toy - put it away again after a short while else it will soon not become his favorite toy!). Do NOT punish him, once he has released the offending item and taken his toy PRAISE him

You can only prevent your puppy or dog from chewing everything in sight if you're there to correct and guide him towards what he can play or chew upon. When you are not able to supervise him, consider putting him in a crate with a few toys. Remember only to crate puppies for short periods of time. If you are interested in reading more about crate training dogs or puppies click this link.

If your puppy / dog keeps catching you out (gets the slippers!) consider spraying the item with bitter apple. It tastes awful and will usualy stop your dog from chewing what he shouldn't fairly rapidly!

If your dog is bored giving him the physical and mental stimulation he deserves can often stop a chronic chewer. Make sure he is getting enough exercise and if your not there, get someone in to keep him company and walk him. Dogs are social animals and it is cruel to keep them isolated and alone for long periods.

In the short term consider moving items your dog can access easily to a safe place.

Free dog and puppy training tips by Email

All the best,

Laura

P.S. If you found this article useful, please click on the "Thumbs Up" button at the bottom of this page. Thank You.