Dear Sassy,
Got any advice for dogs that chew TV remote controls, telephones and kids’ toys?
Signed,
Chewy
Dear Chewy,
If your dog is a puppy, chewing is a normal part of teething. Just like human babies, chewing is an instinct that helps soothe the soreness and helps the new teeth push through the gums. Depending on the dog’s size and breed, teething begins at 3-4 months and normally last until 7 or 8 months.
Sassy suggests:
· Provide your puppy with teething toys such as Nylabones, Kong Toys and Petstages Cool Teething Chew for Puppies .
· Also, it is important to “Puppy Proof” your house. Keep shoes, toys and TV remotes out of reach while your puppy is in his teething stage.
· Confining your puppy to a crate or baby gated area while you are away from home will also help preserve your possessions.
· If you discover your puppy has chewed your new iPhone, don’t punish your puppy. He won’t understand why he is being reprimanded. Shouting at him or spanking will only cause him to be anxious and could cause more issues.
· If you find your puppy in the act of chewing your shoe, it’s important to stay calm. Tap the puppy on the shoulder to get his attention and give him a firm command “No Bite.” Redirect him to a proper toy or bone to chew. Then praise him for chewing his toy.
“As adults, dogs often chew for fun, or to relieve boredom,” according to PetMD.com. “Chewing or tearing things up (like paper) can also be a displacement behavior, a way to release pent-up energy or stress.”
Sassy suggests:
· Walk your dog daily. Walking can use up some of the excess energy and he’s less likely to be destructive.
· Teach him tricks or obedience commands. You don’t have to go to a class. Sites like Doggie Buddy give training tips online. Spend time every day challenging his mind. Some dogs want to work and have a job. Smart dogs need an outlet for mind also.
· Provide challenging toys. Put dog biscuits inside a Hol-ee Roller X Extreme or put peanut butter or freeze wet dog food inside of a rubber Kong toy to keep him busy while you are away.
· Use Grannick’s Bitter Apple spray as training aide. It has a bitter taste, but won’t harm your dog. It is safe to use on furniture and most items.
Some dogs destroy things around the house because they have separation anxiety. Sassy suggest you speak with your vet about ways to help with anxiety issues.
Sassy would like to introduce you to her new friend Smiley
Smiley is a 3 to 4 year old big, sweet boy. He smiles all the time, hence the name Smiley. He is a Doberman Pinscher/Rottweiler Mix. This pet is neutered and has been tested negative for heartworms, started on prevention Revolution, given DHPPC combo, Bordatella, and dewormer. Adoption fees are $30 for Rowlett residents – $25 for non-residents – $5 for seniors 60 and older.
Go to rowlett.com for adoption details, or visit Smiley (Pet ID: 09-12-2012-3) at the Rowlett Animal Shelter, 4402 Industrial St. in Rowlett, 75088 Phone: 972.412.6219.
Sassy gives advice to dogs and their people, with the help of her person Martha Caster Lloyd. Martha owns a Pet Sitting & Cage Free Grooming Service in Sachse, TX (www.loveyourpetsitting.com).
Email pet-related questions to sassy@spoiledpug.com.
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