Owners of both young dogs and adult dogs often wonder how to stop a dog chewing things around the house. Damage to furniture, interior trim, clothing and other items caused by inappropriate chewing can be frustrating, but there are ways you can address the issue.
Here are some common reasons why dogs chew and ways to help prevent it:
Why puppies chew on things
Puppies like to chew on things as a way of exploring. However, excessive chewing is usually due to teething. Just like human babies, puppies can experience pain or discomfort in their gums from new teeth growing in. Chewing on anything and everything available might be their way of trying to relieve pain.
Why dogs chew when you leave the house
Many dog owners have experienced the horror of returning home to destroyed furniture, shoes or other objects after leaving their pup alone for a while. If your dog is chewing on things when you leave the house, they may be experiencing separation anxiety.
In addition to missing you, they may simply be bored. Make sure to have plenty of appropriate chew toys available to keep them occupied while you’re away. Toys that dispense food, like puzzle feeders, are another great option for curing dog boredom.
How to discourage your dog from chewing on wood
Wood trim and furniture are common victims of a dog’s destructive chewing. After addressing any behavioral issues that could be causing them to chew on wood - such as anxiety or boredom - you can use chewing deterrents to keep them away from wood surfaces.
Supplies to stop your dog from chewing
Chew deterrents, such as bitter apple spray, are an effective way to discourage chewing on furniture, shoes and other items. There are several options available on the market, but you can also make your own deterrent spray with apple cider vinegar and water.
Combining a chew deterrent with the right chew toy can often be enough to keep your dog from inappropriate chewing. However, it’s always best to tackle the behavioral issues first. If you’re ever uncertain about what to do next, consult your vet for expert advice.
About the Author
Hannah Sosinski
I started my career in the real estate industry at the age of sixteen and instantly fell in love.
I worked alongside one of the top producing agents in the country as their administrative assistant for nearly nine years before I took the leap to begin my own journey in the real estate industry.
Working alongside an agent who sells over three hundred houses a year educated me strongly on the Pittsburgh and greater Pittsburgh housing market. While working alongside this agent, I was lucky enough to be involved in several different types of real estate transactions and learned to properly determine home values, many aspects of negotiations and have learned how to close challenging deals while also handling a large amount of deals at the same time.
I have also spent the past seven years working as a property manager throughout Allegheny, Washington and Fayette County. I have managed everything from Section 8 to Luxury units.
Exploring the options of the real estate industry can be overwhelming. While working with me you’re able to sit back and relax as I have worked with many investors, home sellers and buyers and can help guide through the sale or purchase of your home and make it as easy on you as possible.
Whether you’re a first time home owner, downsizing, sizing up, looking to make your first/second or third investment, selling your home, etc. I can use my years of education to help guide you through the purchase or sale of the largest investment of your life.
I look forward to chatting about real estate with you!