During this period of time it is
important to supply your puppy with proper chew toys - ones that will
alleviate their desire to chew without turning them into a permanent
chewer. This is usually a good time to provide him with a toy box that
contains their chew toys.Just as our children need safe teething
rings so, too, do our puppies need safe toys to aid in relieving the
discomfort of teething. Correcting your puppy for chewing during
teething will only confuse him since he really cannot help himself.
Instead, supply him with a safe chew toy such as a heavy sock scented
with peppermint extract so that he knows the difference.
Some puppies chew out of boredom. Puppies that are left alone for long
periods of time without some kind of constructive activity often turn to
chewing. To prevent this, make every effort to teach your puppy what he can and
can’t chew on in your home. This is a good time to use your puppy crate/pen. If
you are unable to supervise your puppy, put him in his playpen with his chew
toys. I also recommend leaving a radio or television on for your puppy if you
are going to be away for any long period of time. The noise will alleviate some
of the loneliness during solitary confinement.
Poor diet can be another reason your puppy is chewing. If your puppy is not
getting enough chewing action from his food he may turn to other items such as
your furniture. Sometimes a change in food, to one that requires more chewing,
will solve this problem.
If you catch your puppy chewing on items he is not to chew on, a simple
correction is usually enough. Softly swat him on the bottom of his chin and take
the forbidden item away from him. This is a good time to teach your puppy to
seek his own chew toys out of the toy box that you have provided him.
Sheila & Michael Riley
P.O. Box 625
Valley Springs, CA 95252
MaltaAngel@comcast.net
209-772-8772
