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Puppies are undeniably adorable, but they can also be mischievous little chew monsters. Just like Arashi was! Although our dog did not destroy “things”, he was definitely inclined to if we let him. We did our research before bringing him which helped eliminate the chewing and destroying behavior early on!
But do not be concerned… Puppy chewing is a common behavior but CAN be eliminated. It’s essential to curb this habit early to protect your belongings and your pup’s well-being.
Many people regard is a ‘dog natural behavior’ but forget that chewing things can be detrimental to your dog’s well being. (e.g sticks, and small objects can choke your dog, or even puncture your dog’s stomach, when swallowed which can cause serious problems including bleeding and blockage)
Here are some tips to help you stop your puppy from chewing and destroying things. I placed one large order of the below items from Chewy just because it happened to have everything I needed.
NOTE: Did you know that Chewy has an online veterinarian service for free? I actually used it once after Arashi’s neuter (long scary story!) Just FYI in case you have a random question but don’t want to have an expensive bill.
1. Puppy-Proof Your Home:
Prevention is key. Before bringing your puppy home, puppy-proof your living space by removing or securing items that could be chewed. This includes shoes, cables, and small objects that might be swallowed.
We started puppy proofing seriously a month before we received Arashi. We hid all exposed cables and got rid of all decor with tassels. We ensured all our shoes were in the closet at all times and no lose strings are hanging out anywhere.
Dog’s are attracted to things that ‘dangle’ and are soft. Anything attractive to chew, they will go for it.
Cord Protector
Many people recommend the plastic cord covers, but we actually used these so that the cords won’t be sitting around.
We also ran all the cords behind furniture so that they are not visible.
2. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys:
Puppies need to chew to soothe their teething discomfort and explore the world. Offer a variety of sturdy, safe chew toys to redirect their chewing habits. Kong toys, and puzzle feeders are excellent choices.
We bought a bunch of Kong toys that you can put treats in them. Kong does make really durable chewers; however, as Arashi grew, we had to take those toys away because he was able to destroy them. As a puppy, they were very handy to keep him busy and also for chewing purposes.
Here is a few toy options i personally recommend:
KONG Classic Dog Toy – Size Medium
This classic was a life saver. I bought a size MEDIUM just because it seemed like a good size and something he can use as a puppy and as a grown puppy. I feel like size medium fits most dogs quiet well.
There is actually a hole inside this toy which you can stuff with peanut butter or kibble (or both!) which will keep your dog super busy.
Beware to not over feed your dog and use dog friendly peanut butter.
TIP: After you stuff the toy with your puppy’s favorite treat, put in the freezer! The coldness of the Kong will releaf your puppy’s itchy teeth! (I still keep a Kong in my freezer just for fun!!)
Price as of this post $11.99 USD [14% off on Chewy], size Medium
KONG Classic Goodie Bone Dog Toy
I also bought this one but after some time. It was just a nice to have a variety to keep things exciting.
TIP: After you stuff the toy with your puppy’s favorite treat, put in the freezer! The coldness of the Kong will releaf your puppy’s itchy teeth! (I still keep a Kong in my freezer just for fun!!)
Price as of this post $15.99 USD [16% off on Chewy]
3. Supervise Your Puppy:
Keep a close eye on your puppy, especially during the early days. If you catch them chewing on something they shouldn’t, redirect them to an appropriate toy and praise them when they chew on it.
One of the best things I think I did to avoid Arashi destroying things was to tie him to myself around the house. Yep, I did that. This is why a hands off leash is important and is super handy! When i cooked, or cleaned dishes, I let Arashi be attached to me. This helped me supervise my dog and also taught him to follow me around at all times!
Here is an Arashi Approved leash that I have been using since he was a puppy.
Recommended Option / Affordable Option / Great Design
KURGO® Quantum 6-in-1 Dog Leash
On the left picture, we were hiking near Sleeping Giant, ON, Canada. When the ground was rocky and i needed to use my hands, I simply tied the leash around my waist.
We literally have 3 of these leashes and have been using it for 1.5 years now. We keep one in the house, in the car, and parents house so we never forget his leash. Unless your dog tries to chew on it and damages it, they are pretty sturdy and durable.
There are 6 uses to this leash:
- 3 ft training leash (you can adjust the leash height as needed)
- Courier style leash (when you wear it cross body)
- Stationary leash (you can tie the pup to a pole or bench using the hooks. We tie Arashi to the restaurant fence when we go out for example)
- Belt Style (like in the picture on the left)
- 2 Dog Leash
- Standard 6ft leash.
Price as of this post $29.95 USD [Amazon Prime Deal)
4. Crate Training:
Crate training is an effective way to manage your puppy when you can’t supervise them. Puppies are less likely to chew on inappropriate items when they’re in their crate with toys and a comfortable environment.
Arashi slept in his crate from the moment he came to our home. He is now 2 years old and still sleeps in his crate. Its an integral part of his training. As a puppy, every time i couldn’t supervise him, I put him in the crate. He did resist it at first but then got used to it so don’t give up.
If you haven’t started crate training, get started today. Here is a recommended crate.
Recommended Option / Heavy Duty / Great Design / Made in USA
MidWest Homes for Pets Ultima Pro Series 42′ Dog Crate
This is an investment that will last a while so i recommend you don’t opt in to cheap crates. Remember that this is where your dog will sleep, it must be safe, and durable. You should feel confident leaving your dog in it when run errands or can not supervise him. For this reason, i will only recommend the one we still use and are happy with it.
Arashi is considered a larger dog (even though he still looks like a puppy to me!) so we bought him the 42′ option; however, they have various sizes depending on your dog’s size. We actually bought 2 of these, one for our home, and one for parents’ home for puppy sleep overs. I am contemplating purchasing 48′ one so Arashi can spread his legs more comfortably, it’s now available on Chewy.
MidWest Homes also has a very responsive customer service and are always ready to help out if you have any questions. Highly recommend it.
We bought ours from Amazon, and it looks like they are on sale as of 10/23.
Price as of this post $49.99 USD (usually it is $140.99)
5. Obedience Training:
Basic obedience training is crucial. Teach your puppy commands like “leave it” and “drop it.” These commands can help prevent them from chewing on forbidden items and encourage them to relinquish anything they’ve already grabbed.
6. Use Bitter Apple Spray:
Bitter apple or bitter cherry sprays are safe and effective deterrents. Apply these to objects your puppy likes to chew on but shouldn’t. The unpleasant taste will discourage them from chewing.
I know this tip helped so many people. Fortunately, I didn’t have to try it because everything above worked really well.
7. Exercise and Mental Stimulation:
A tired puppy is a well-behaved puppy. Make sure your pup gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation through playtime and walks. A tired puppy is less likely to resort to destructive chewing out of boredom.
When Arashi was a puppy, doing puzzles helped keep his mind so busy. It helped mentally stimulating him and challenging him. The saying goes like “a tired dog is a good dog”
Here are some of the puzzles Arashi tried:
Outward Hound. -Dog Tornado
This was one of Arashi’s favorite. It kept him really busy and entertained. You place some kibble or treats in the compartment, and your dog needs to figure out how to solve the puzzle!
Price as of this post $12.77 USD
Outward Hound. -Dog BRICK
Another one of Arashi’s favorite. It kept him really busy and entertained. You place some kibble or treats in the compartments, and your dog needs to figure out how to solve the puzzle!
BEWARE: the red covers can come out but they can be put back easily. Please supervise your dog so they don’t chew on them.
Price as of this post $8.07USD
8. Consistency and Patience:
Consistency is key when training your puppy. Be patient and persistent in enforcing the rules. It takes time for puppies to understand what’s acceptable and what’s not.
Do not scold and shout at your dog, it doesn’t help and could even have the opposite affects (e.g damaging your bond, giving positive enforcement). Do not have anything available for them to chew that you do not approve. Basically do not make anything you want to protect ‘attractive’ or ‘available’ for them and keep things consistent.
9. Consider Professional Help:
If your puppy’s chewing habit persists and is causing significant damage or harm, consult a professional dog trainer or a veterinarian for guidance. There might be underlying issues that need addressing. It is possible that the puppy’s teeth is bothering them and needs examination.
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