The love of chewing is hardwired into both dogs and puppies and it’s completely natural. However, this desire to gnaw at anything and everything can be positive and negative. Good chewing is something to encourage and will happen if your dog is well cared for and provided with safe things to chew on.
Certain toys and foods are designed to be chewed on and can offer them some entertainment and relieve anxiety. For young puppies, it’s a great way to combat the pain of new teeth growing in and for older dogs, it will keep their jaws and teeth healthy.
Opposite to good chewing, bad or destructive chewing is when anything in your home is destroyed due to your dog’s need to munch on something. However, this bad behaviour is usually due to another issue rather a bad attitude.
Separation Anxiety
If your dog tends to chew objects in your house when they are left alone, then this may be due to a separation anxiety which has manifested itself through the form of chewing whatever is near them. A good way to combat this is to if possible, start leaving your dog alone for a shorter period and with their favourite treat or toy. This will help them to associate being alone with gaining something positive.
Hunger
If your dog is on a restrictive diet to help them with any weight problems, it may be a good idea to speak to your veterinarian regarding their destructive chewing and see if it is tied to this diet. It may need to be slightly relaxed or altered if they are so hungry that they are resorting to chewing household objects.
Puppy Teething
As already mentioned, young puppies who have growing teeth may feel the need to chew to combat any pain they are experiencing. Just like with human babies, teething can be painful. During your first six months with your puppy, you’ll be surprised just how many things can become a chew toy. Try providing them with ice cubes, wet frozen washcloths or even frozen chew treats to help them ease the pain.