Why Do Puppies Chew?
Puppies are basically tiny furry tornadoes, not shy to explore any and everything with their mouths! But why do they chew on everything in sight?
1. Teething: The Puppy Teething Party
What’s Teething All About? Teething is your puppy’s rite of passage from baby teeth to big kid teeth. It usually kicks off around 3 to 4 months and wraps up by 6 months. Imagine your pup going through their very own tooth fairy moment, only with more drool and less magic.
Sore Gums: The Chewing Solution Just like teething babies, puppies experience sore gums when their adult teeth come in. Chewing helps soothe their gums by applying pressure and easing discomfort. Think of it as their way of saying, “Ouch, but hey, this feels good!”
Teething Symptoms: What to Watch For
- Chewing on everything (yes, that includes your favorite shoes!).
- Drooling like a leaky faucet.
- Red or swollen gums.
- Maybe even a baby tooth or two that have fallen out.
How to Manage Teething:
- Chew Toys: Get them some teething toys made of rubber or silicone. They’re like the ultimate puppy teething rings!
- Frozen Treats: Pop some chew toys or washcloths in the freezer. The cold will soothe their sore gums and give them a cool new chew toy.
- Skip the Meds: No need for pain relievers. Stick with toys and distractions to keep your pup happy.
2. Exploration: The Puppy Adventure Club
Why Exploration Matters Puppies are like tiny explorers, using their mouths to investigate the world around them. They don’t have the fancy dexterity of an adult dog, so they rely on their mouths to figure things out. Think of it as their version of a treasure hunt!
Supporting Healthy Exploration:
- Chew Toys Galore: Offer a mix of toys with different textures and shapes. It’s like a chew toy buffet for your curious pup.
- Interactive Toys: Toys that make noise or dispense treats are a hit. They’ll keep your puppy engaged and help them learn while they play.
- Positive Chewing: Encourage them to chew on their toys and gently steer them away from your beloved furniture.
3. Boredom: The Chew Crisis
Why Boredom Leads to Chewing? Puppies have boundless energy, and if they don’t have enough to do, they might turn to chewing out of boredom. It’s like they’re saying, “I’m bored, and this shoe looks like fun!”
Combating Boredom:
- Exercise: Give your puppy plenty of playtime and walks. A tired pup is a happy, non-chewing pup.
- Training: Short, fun training sessions are a great way to tire them out mentally and physically. Plus, they’ll learn cool tricks!
- Interactive Toys: Puzzle toys that dispense treats will keep their brains busy and their mouths off your stuff.
4. Anxiety: The Chewing Comfort Zone
Understanding Anxiety-Related Chewing Sometimes, puppies chew to soothe themselves when they’re feeling anxious. Whether it’s separation anxiety or stress from new experiences, chewing can be their way of comforting themselves.
Managing Anxiety-Induced Chewing:
- Gradual Goodbyes: Start by leaving your puppy alone for short periods, gradually increasing the time. This helps them get used to being solo without freaking out.
- Comfort Items: A piece of your clothing or a favorite blanket can provide comfort. It’s like a hug from you when you’re not around.
- Safe Space: Create a cozy corner or crate where your pup feels secure. It’s their personal retreat for when they need a break.
- Seek Help if Needed: If anxiety is a big issue, don’t hesitate to get advice from a vet or a pro dog trainer. They’ll have the tools to help your pup feel more at ease.
How to Manage and Redirect Chewing
Chewing can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right strategies, you can turn it into a positive experience for your pup. Let’s dive into how you can manage and redirect those chomping habits!
1. Provide Chew Toys: The Ultimate Chewing Solution
Why Chew Toys Are a Must-Have:
- Teething Relief: Chew toys are like little dental superheroes! They help soothe those sore gums during the teething phase and give your pup something healthy to chew on instead of your favorite shoes.
- Exploration and Engagement: Toys are not just fun; they’re essential for sensory stimulation. They satisfy your puppy’s natural urge to explore their world by chewing on different textures and shapes.
Types of Chew Toys:
- Rubber Toys: Think of these as the heavyweights of chew toys. Durable and often treat-filled, rubber toys can stand up to serious chewing sessions. Look for ones with different textures and sizes to keep things interesting.
- Rope Toys: Perfect for a game of tug-of-war and they even help clean your puppy’s teeth! Make sure the rope is sturdy and not fraying to keep those pesky fibers out of your pup’s belly.
- Teething Rings: These are specifically made for teething puppies and come in all sorts of textures to soothe and massage sore gums. They’re like a spa day for your puppy’s mouth!
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Toys:
- Size Matters: Pick toys that are just the right size for your puppy’s mouth—big enough to be safe but small enough to avoid choking hazards.
- Safety First: Avoid toys with tiny parts that could be chewed off and swallowed. Choose non-toxic materials and ensure the toy is well-made.
- Variety is Key: Mix it up with different textures and shapes to keep your puppy’s interest piqued. A toy buffet is always more exciting!
2. Puppy-Proof Your Home: Create a Chew-Free Zone
Why Puppy-Proofing is a Game-Changer:
- Stop the Chew Fest: By puppy-proofing, you can save your shoes, furniture, and other valuables from becoming chew toys. It’s like setting up a “No Chewing Allowed” sign in your home!
- Safety First: Protect your curious pup from hazards like electrical cords and toxic household items. Think of it as setting up a puppy-safe fortress.
How to Puppy-Proof Your Space:
- Remove Temptations: Keep those tempting items like shoes and books out of your puppy’s reach. Store cords and cables securely, or use protective covers. Out of sight, out of mind!
- Secure Furniture: Use covers or protective sprays to keep your furniture safe. For wooden pieces, a deterrent spray can work wonders to keep them chew-free.
- Create Safe Zones: Designate specific areas where your puppy can roam and chew freely. Use baby gates to keep them away from precious or dangerous areas. Think of it as their personal playground!
Here’s our guide on How to puppy-proof your home.
3. Use Chew Deterrents: The Unchewables
What Are Chew Deterrents?
- Bitter Sprays: These sprays taste yucky to puppies, making them think twice about chewing on treated objects. It’s like a “Don’t Eat Me” sign in spray form!
- Deterrent Gels: Similar to sprays, these gels make surfaces taste bad to your pup. Apply them to items you want to protect and watch your pup lose interest.
How to Use Deterrents:
- Apply Properly: Follow the instructions to ensure you’re applying deterrents correctly. Usually, a spritz or dab will do the trick.
- Reapply as Needed: Since deterrents can wear off, make sure to reapply them to keep the bad taste fresh in your puppy’s mouth.
- Combine with Positive Reinforcement: Use deterrents alongside praise and treats for chewing on the right toys. It’s like rewarding your pup for making good choices!
4. Exercise and Mental Stimulation: The Energy Busters
Why Exercise and Stimulation Are a Must:
- Burn Off Energy: Adequate exercise helps tire your puppy out, so they’re less likely to channel their energy into chewing everything in sight.
- Mental Engagement: Keeping your puppy’s mind busy with stimulating activities helps prevent boredom-driven chewing.
Ways to Provide Exercise and Stimulation:
- Daily Walks: Take your puppy for regular walks to keep them fit and happy. Adjust the length and intensity based on their age, breed, and energy level.
- Interactive Play: Play games like fetch, tug-of-war, or hide and seek. These activities strengthen your bond and keep your pup engaged.
- Puzzle Toys: Challenge your puppy’s brain with puzzle toys that dispense treats or have hidden compartments. It’s like a treasure hunt for their mind!
5. Training Commands: Your Chewing Coach
Why Training Commands Help:
- Control the Situation: Commands like “leave it” or “no” give you the power to manage chewing on the spot. It’s like having a remote control for their behavior!
- Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding your puppy for following commands helps reinforce good behavior and builds a strong bond.
How to Train Commands:
- Start Simple: Begin with basic commands like “sit” and “stay” before introducing “leave it” or similar commands.
- Treats and Praise: Use treats and praise to reward your puppy when they follow a command or choose to chew on an appropriate toy. It’s all about making them feel like a superstar!
- Be Consistent: Consistency is key. Use the same commands and reward system each time to help your puppy learn and remember.
6. Supervision and Crate Training: The Ultimate Chew Control
Why Supervision and Crate Training Work Wonders:
- Watch and Redirect: By supervising your puppy, you can instantly redirect their chewing behavior and prevent damage.
- Safe Haven: A crate offers a secure space when you can’t keep a close eye. It’s like a cozy den where your pup can feel safe and sound.
How to Implement:
- Crate Training Basics: Introduce the crate slowly, making it a positive place with comfy bedding and chew toys. Remember, the crate should never be used as a punishment.
- Short-Term Crating: Start with short periods in the crate, gradually increasing as your puppy becomes more comfortable with being alone.
- Supervision: When your puppy is out of the crate, keep a close watch on their activities. Guide them to appropriate chewing and reinforce good behavior.
Common Questions
Should I Punish My Dog for Destroying Things? Spoiler: It’s a No!
Why Punishment Doesn’t Work: Punishing your puppy for chewing up your favorite shoes or shredding your newspaper might seem like a solution, but it’s usually not the best approach. Puppies don’t always connect the dots between their actions and the punishment, especially if it’s not immediate. This can lead to confusion, fear, and even more chewing as they try to cope with their stress.
What to Do Instead:
- Prevention is Key: Instead of punishment, focus on making your home puppy-proof. Remove or secure items that are tempting to chew and provide your pup with plenty of safe, engaging toys.
- Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate when your puppy chews on the right things! Reward them with treats and praise for chewing on appropriate toys. It’s like giving them a high-five for good behavior!
How Do You Calm a Destructive Puppy?
Here’s Your Guide to a Calm, Content Puppy:
- Provide Adequate Exercise:
- Physical Activity: Think of exercise as a magic wand for puppy energy! Daily walks, playtime, and interactive games help burn off that extra energy that might otherwise go into chewing your furniture.
- Mental Stimulation:
- Interactive Toys: Keep your puppy’s brain busy with puzzle toys and treat-dispensers. It’s like a fun workout for their brain!
- Training Sessions: Short, fun training sessions not only keep your puppy’s mind engaged but also reinforce good behavior. Plus, it’s a great way to bond!
- Create a Calm Environment:
- Safe Space: Set up a cozy nook with your puppy’s favorite toys and bedding. It’s their personal retreat for when they need a break from the action.
- Calm Interaction: Stay calm and consistent in your interactions. Your puppy will pick up on your mood and respond better to a relaxed atmosphere.
- Manage Separation Anxiety:
- Gradual Desensitization: If your puppy chews out of separation anxiety, slowly get them used to being alone. Gradually increase the time you’re away while providing comfort items to make your absence less stressful.
What Age Do Puppies Stop Chewing on Everything?
The Chewing Timeline:
- Teething Stage: Puppies usually start teething around 3 to 4 months of age. This period is like a chew-fest for them, helping to ease the discomfort of their new teeth coming in. Expect this phase to last until they’re about 6 months old.
- Mature Chewing Habits: By 6 to 8 months, most puppies begin to outgrow their relentless chewing as their adult teeth come in and they learn what’s appropriate to chew on.
Continued Monitoring:
- Ongoing Chewing: Even after teething, puppies might continue to chew as part of their natural curiosity. Keep providing appropriate chew toys and engaging activities to guide their behavior.
Is It Normal for a Puppy to Chew All the Time?
Understanding Puppy Chewing:
- Exploration and Teething: Chewing is a natural part of exploring their world and dealing with teething discomfort. It’s their way of playing and learning about their surroundings.
- Play and Learning: Chewing helps puppies discover new textures and sensations. Ensuring they have a variety of chew toys and activities can help direct this behavior positively.
Managing Excessive Chewing:
- Provide Alternatives: Make sure your puppy has a selection of safe, age-appropriate chew toys.
- Monitor and Redirect: Supervise and gently redirect your puppy to suitable toys when they start chewing on something they shouldn’t.
- Exercise and Stimulation: Keep your puppy physically active and mentally stimulated to help reduce the urge to chew excessively.
