Chewing on furniture is a typical behavior for puppies that can also be a very expensive habit that must be stopped as soon as possible. The primary reason for dogs to chew is anxiety and boredom. A dog that is left alone finds chewing a great pastime and anxiety reliever while causing the owners anxiety! When an adult dog demonstrates destructive behavior, he is communicating that he needs more attention and wants to spend more time with you.
Limiting your dogs access to your furniture while you are away or out of the house is step number one in preventing harm to your expensive belongings.
If you do catch your dog chewing, be stern and reprimand him. Make sure he is aware that you are not happy with him. As with all discipline, be consistent and firm. A good way to make sure your dog realizes that even when alone and bored, he should not chew is to watch him from another room. Watch him when he is under the impression he is alone and as soon as he starts, immediately come in and reprimand him. Try to remain calm and be consistent when trying to alter the behavior. The dog is working out the rules when it comes to living in your house. Dogs look to their owners for guidance and they want to know their boundaries. That is your job. To teach them the boundaries.
Buying Helpful Training Tools
If you are losing patience and not getting anywhere, you might want to go to your local pet store and get an anti-chew salve, spray or cream for the furniture. You can also try a scat mat which works quite well. When the animal gets on the furniture a sensor sets off a loud beep and startles the animal. They jump off and usually never even try it again. Talk to the pet store owner and he may recommend one item over another depending on your situation.
Dogs and Boredome
The other approach to the problem is to help alleviate the boredom your dog is experiencing. Leave a TV or radio on, any type of stimulation. If possible, leave toys around, especially of the chewing variety.
Exercise
Daily exercise is an important part of a dog’s day. A tired dog is a happy dog. Give your dog an opportunity to work off steam and energy. Exercise can redirect your dog’s energy and destructive impulses.
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