Learn More About Puppy Chewing

Most puppies will need to chew when their new teeth are coming in, much like when a baby is teething. Management is very important because everything is a potential chew toy when the desire to teethe is so strong. Keep your pup in a penned area with items you don't mind them chewing, such as bones, teething biscuits or chew toys. If you use a toy, make sure it is not made of a brittle material that could break off and lodge in your puppy's mouth or stomach.

When your puppy is out of their playpen, pick up everything that you do not want destroyed, such as shoes, children's toys, remote controls etc. They do not know what you covet and what is purposefully given to them to chew. They will be drawn to just about everything, especially items that have their owner's scent on them.

Keeping them in their playpen will not only keep them from chewing your furniture but will help their toileting routine develop as you manage their visits into the backyard for toileting, and not on your carpets!

Never give your pup old shoes or clothing items as they will not distinguish between those and the new ones you don't want them to chew.

If you catch them eyeing or starting to chew something off-limits like a table leg, utter a growl and clap your hands loudly. Praise them when they look at you. You can also spray a taste deterrent such as bitter apple or crib stop on any furniture to create a non-tasty chewing experience for your pup.

Never physically correct your pup for chewing and never correct them after the fact. This can create more issues as your pup can become fearful of hands and people approaching them.

Once your puppy's adult teeth are in, continue to provide healthy, safe chewing items throughout their life to keep their teeth and gums healthy and keep them active and stimulated when their alone.

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