Destructive Behavior

Destructive behavior and improper chewing are common problems amongst most dogs in the home. If your dog is slowly destroying your house, you will need to step in and teach them what the appropriate behavior is. They are not doing this because they are mean, angry or spiteful. In most cases they are bored and under stimulated. This can be easily resolved by providing proper chew toys, exercise and plenty of mental stimulation.

First, set your dog up to succeed! Remove forbidden items from your dog's reach. This simply takes the temptation away. Next provide your pup with some chew toys that will make them work and think. Especially toys that you can stick food and tasty treats inside. Food-stuffed toys will keep your dogs interest in interacting with the toy instead of forbidden items around the house. Kongs® are perfect examples of stimulating toys. Kongs® come in different shapes and sizes. Another one of my favorite toys are treat dispensing balls. As the dog rolls the ball around, yummy treats fall out of the hole keeping your pup busy for hours. Instead of feeding your dog his meal from a bowl, place it in the treat ball or kong.

And the most important thing you can do is exercise your dog. A good walk or a hardy game of fetch every day provides both physical and mental stimulation. A walk also allows your dog a chance to explore their world outside their home. Imagine how bored you would be if you were stuck inside most of the day and the only part of the outdoors you saw was your back yard. Sounds pretty boring huh?