Your dog chewed your what?!

You're finally back home from a late night at the office. The last thing you want to deal with is seeing your belongings or furniture chewed up by your dog. Did he or she do it on purpose to get back at you for leaving them at home so long? No, it is simply not in their nature.

Dogs do not destroy things because they are angry or spiteful. The chewing is a way for your dog to relieve boredom or anxiety when they've been left alone for long periods of time.  Don't punish your pet for being a dog. Instead, give them something to keep them occupied or calm and both of you will be happier.

Chewing may result from your dog's natural instincts, especially if you own a hunting dog. Basset hounds and other hunting breeds enjoy chewing more than most other breeds and need a variety of chew toys to focus their energy on. Try switching out chew toys every few days so your dog has something new and interesting to chew on. Also, substitute a chew toy any time you see your dog chewing on furniture, clothing, or other off-limit items. Your dog eventually learns to use the chew toys over personal belongings.

Chewing also results from stress. Any recent changes in your dog's life such as a new work schedule, a move, or kids moving out of the house disrupts your dog's daily routine. This builds anxiety and requires a new routine for your dog to adapt to. Establish regular feeding times and walk times to create security and reduce chewing.

A lack of exercise, which leads to boredom, forces your dog to vent energy elsewhere. This usually creates bad habits  since your dog has to expend energy somewhere. Regular walks or general playtime gets your dog to use their energy in a more constructive manner. The time spent with you also keeps your dog emotionally stable. An exercise routine  helps when you have to leave your dog home alone because a tired dog is less likely to get into chewing-related trouble.

Finally, chewing can result from a lack of training. If you never corrected chewing behavior despite the damage it causes, your dog has no incentive to stop.

Taking action and implementing some of these suggestions should correct your dog's chewing problem. Of course, if your dog gets into dangerous situations, crating him or her when you are not home is always preferable to injury.  And above all, remember to give plenty of positive reinforcement when your dog exhibits positive non-chewing behavior!

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