Why Do Dogs Chew?

If you’re a dog owner, chances are that you’ve come home to a chewed up shoe or pillow lying at least once.  Chewing is a part of a dog’s behavior, but why, exactly, do dogs chew on everything around them? Here we answer your questions on why they behave this way, and what you can do to stop it.

Chewing is like feeling

Dogs are like babies in a sense, they explore their world by putting things in their mouths. After all, dogs don’t have hands, so they use their mouths to understand an object. In that respect, your pup wasn’t trying to eat your shoe, he was only feeling and exploring it.

For dogs, it’s also a coping mechanism

For some dogs, chewing is also a coping mechanism to help them deal with their stress and anxiety, similar to how you bite your fingernails or eat junk food when you’re stressed. If you suspect your dog is highly emotional or anxious, you may want to talk to your vet.

Redirect their behavior

If you want to prevent your dog from chewing on your favorite pair of Armani shoes, then give them something else to chew on, such as dog toys or bones. Observe your dog to see if he or she needs a toy he can tear into or one that will hold up to all of his energy. And remember, punishing your dog won’t fix the behavior. If it continues to be a problem, talk to your veterinarian.

If you’re considering getting a new puppy, don’t let the thought of their chewing discourage you. Instead, be prepared and purchase a toy breed pup from Pauley’s Pups! Give us a call today at 804-798-7877 today with any questions you have.