Why Does My Dog Chew Everything? By Cheree Miller

Why does your dog chew everything? There isn't a single answer
to that question. Dogs chew for a variety of reasons. Some
just seem have an an inborn need to chew. They find it
pleasurable. Others seem to chew only if they are bored.

Is there a difference between "Chewing" and "Destructive
Chewing"? I suppose it's up to the beholder. When you get
right down to it, chewing is destructive by its very nature!

Your dog has strong jaws full of sharp, pointy teeth. Puppies
especially have very sharp teeth, and a strong chewing instinct.

Just about anything your dog starts to chew on is probably
going to show the effects of it inside of a minute.

As a point of clarification, when w say "destructive chewing"
we usually mean "inappropriate chewing". You know, chewing up
your possessions, your furniture, your shoes, as opposed to
chewing on designated toys and dog chews.

There are three main reasons why dogs chew:

* Chewing is a natural desire. It's fun, it passes the time,
and it's a self-rewarding, self-reinforcing activity. As
example would be chewing on something that tastes good.

* Chewing is an outlet -- especially for a nervous, bored, or
lonely dog. The repetitive act of chewing is actually quite
soothing to your dog. It's the doggie equivalent of comfort
food.

* Chewing burns up nervous energy and gives your dog something
to do. This is especially true in the case of dogs who don't get
enough exercise.

So, how do you keep your dog from chewing up your prized
possessions? The secret to that burning question is in the
list of reasons why your dog chews in the first place! Here are
three tips:

* Give your dog something tasty to chew on.

* Make sure your dog has other activities, or playmates, to
help prevent boredom. Dogs will usually chew when they are left
alone, or when you are sleeping or otherwise ignoring them.

* See to it that your dog gets plenty of exercise to burn off
that energy. If your dog is exercised properly, chances are he
will be tired and ready for a nap rather than ready to chew up
everything in sight!

Of course, one final word of advice: If you can't lock your
prized possessions safely away from your dog, then confine your
dog when you cannot watch her. It isn't good for you, your
things, or your dog to launch into punishment mode when the
situation could have -- and should have -- been avoided in the
first place.

In order to stay on friendly terms with "man's best friend"
take the upper hand early on. Your dog looks to you for
guidance and leadership. Preventing your dog from chewing up
your things in the first place is your best bet. It's easier to
prevent the habit in the first place than it is to break it
later.

If you are looking for more dog training tips, be sure to click
on the link below in my resource box.

About the Author: Cheree is the founder of Mill Creek Animal
Rescue. Visit http://NewPetZone.com for the latest news and
product reviews for a healthier happier pet! While you're
there, download a copy of the free report: Five Dog Training
Myths.

Source: http://www.isnare.com

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