Why Do Puppies Chew Things?

By Darren Gibson

Have you ever wondered why your new puppy chews on things? It never fails, you get a new pet and at some point you come home to notice he has chewed on your favorite shoe, or even worse your computer power cord, ouch!

You see, dogs are naturally curious animals, and they want to know what all the fun things around them do and what happens when they check things out. They have a wonderful sense of smell and great hearing so they can easily check things out that way, but just like a toddler who is learning how to crawl they have to put things in their mouths. This is all part of their natural curiosity. Because dogs don't have hands ,they like to put things in their mouth and chew them to see what they are all about, almost like exploring. They get to feel the texture and get the taste as well when they are chewing.

They don't understand it is your favorite item, or it isn't something you would allow them to chew on, they just know it is there, and it is fun for them. So, how do you stop it? What can you do to keep your puppy otherwise occupied?

Well, first of all, if you aren't going to be home, make sure all items at risk of being chewed are put up, out of their reach. Again, just like the little child, puppies don't always have the self control to control themselves from chewing on your shoes. So, you should buy them some of their own toys that they can chew on (never even consider giving him an old shoe to chew on, as you are telling him it is OK for him to do it - he does not know the difference between a tatty old running shoe and your brand new Reeboks!). You could get some squeeky toys, some dog ropes, or some stuffed animals. Show them that it is ok to chew on these things, by playing with them and letting them bite on the object. Make sure to leave these toys out when you won't be home.

Another option is spending more time with your puppy. Consider he won't learn how he is supposed to act unless you teach him. The more time he spends with you, the more he will know how to behave when you aren't around. Not to mention he is more likely to misbehave if he is constantly missing you and you don't have time for him.

If this doesn't help, and your puppy is still chewing on things they aren't supposed to when you aren't home you should consider getting an inside dog pen large enough to hold your puppy while you are out. Put their toys in with them until they learn to behave when you aren't there. Make sure to leave enough food and water and to also take them to the bathroom right before leave and after you get home.

Last, but not least, remember at some point almost all puppies or dogs chew on things you would rather they didn't. Just take it in your stride and try to teach them right from wrong. They will soon catch on with your loving attention and you won't have to worry anymore.

Darren has owned, bred and trained dogs for over 20 years. If you want help with your dog training problems, feel free to drop by his Dog Questions blog or check out the resources listed at Gone to The Dogs Dog Info.