Introduction
As adorable as they are, every new puppy owner quickly discovers the challenges that come with those tiny razor-sharp teeth. Chewing is a natural and necessary behavior for puppies, but it can also be a frustrating phase to navigate. Understanding why puppies chew and how to properly manage this stage is crucial for both your sanity and your puppy’s development.
Why Do Puppies Chew?
Chewing serves several important purposes for puppies, and it’s a behavior that stems from instinct and biological needs:
- Teething: Just like human babies, puppies experience discomfort and pain as their adult teeth start to come in, replacing their puppy teeth. Chewing helps relieve the pressure and soreness in their gums.
- Strengthening Jaw Muscles: Chewing is a dog’s way of exercising their jaw muscles, which is essential for their development and ability to eat properly as they grow.
- Learning Acceptable Behavior: Through chewing and nipping, puppies learn what is appropriate to mouth and what isn’t. They quickly understand the consequences of their actions based on the reactions they receive from humans and other dogs.
- Exploring the Environment: Puppies are naturally curious, and they use their mouths to investigate and learn about their surroundings. Chewing is a way for them to experience different textures, tastes, and smells.
- Boredom: When puppies are understimulated or left alone for too long, they may resort to chewing as a way to alleviate their boredom and expend energy.
The Puppy Chewing Phase
While every puppy is different, the chewing phase typically follows a predictable timeline:
- At 2-3 weeks old, a puppy’s baby teeth start to emerge.
- Around 4 months old, the adult teeth begin to come in, causing increased chewing as the puppy’s gums are sore and uncomfortable. This intense teething phase can last up to 8 weeks.
- From 7-12 months (or even longer for some breeds), puppies enter the “adolescent chewing” stage. This is when they continue to explore the world through chewing, but it’s also a result of their new adult teeth settling in.
In general, the most intense chewing behavior occurs during the teething and adolescent stages, but some dogs may continue to chew throughout their lives, especially when bored or anxious.
Managing the Chewing Phase
While the chewing phase is a natural and necessary part of a puppy’s development, it doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to a chewed-up home. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can effectively manage this behavior and help your puppy learn what is appropriate to chew.
Providing Appropriate Chew Toys
One of the most effective ways to manage chewing is to provide your puppy with a variety of appropriate chew toys. Look for toys that are specifically designed for chewing, such as:
- Hollow Toys: These toys, like the classic Kong, can be stuffed with treats or peanut butter, keeping your puppy entertained and mentally stimulated for longer periods.
- Textured Toys: Toys with different textures, like rubber or rope, can help satisfy your puppy’s need to chew on different surfaces.
- Antlers or Bones: These long-lasting, durable chews can be a great option for puppies who are particularly aggressive chewers.
- Stick-Shaped Toys: These mimic the shape and feel of a real stick but are safer and won’t splinter or break apart.
- Ring-Shaped Toys: The unique shape of these toys makes them fun for puppies to toss around and chew on, providing both physical and mental stimulation.
Rotate your puppy’s chew toys regularly to keep them interested and engaged. You can also make chew toys more enticing by stuffing them with treats or smearing them with peanut butter or cheese.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home
Puppies are curious by nature, and they may be tempted to chew on anything within reach. To prevent accidents and discourage unwanted chewing, it’s important to puppy-proof your home:
- Remove small or easily accessible items that could be potential chew hazards, such as shoes, clothing, or decorative objects.
- Keep valuable or sentimental items out of reach, especially if you have a large-breed puppy that will quickly grow in size.
- Use bitter chewing deterrent sprays on furniture legs or other areas you want to discourage chewing.
- Consider using baby gates or exercise pens to restrict your puppy’s access to certain rooms or areas of your home.
Confinement and Crate Training
When you can’t directly supervise your puppy, it’s essential to confine them to a safe, secure area. Crate training is an effective way to manage chewing and prevent accidents while also providing your puppy with a comfortable, den-like space.
Remember to introduce the crate gradually and positively, and never use it as a punishment. Always provide your puppy with appropriate chew toys or long-lasting treats when they’re in their crate to reinforce the association between the crate and chewing.
Exercise and Stimulation
A tired puppy is often a well-behaved puppy. Regular exercise and mental stimulation can help alleviate boredom and excess energy, reducing the likelihood of destructive chewing behavior.
Engage your puppy in age-appropriate activities, such as playtime, training sessions, or puzzle toys that challenge their mind and body. A well-exercised and stimulated puppy is less likely to resort to chewing out of boredom or frustration.
Training and Positive Reinforcement
Consistent training and positive reinforcement are key to teaching your puppy what is and isn’t acceptable to chew. Whenever you catch your puppy chewing on something they shouldn’t, redirect them to an appropriate chew toy and praise them enthusiastically when they engage with it.
Consider enrolling in a puppy training class, where you can learn effective techniques for teaching your puppy basic commands and addressing unwanted behaviors like chewing. These classes also provide valuable socialization opportunities for your puppy.
FAQs
What if I catch my puppy chewing something they shouldn’t?
If you catch your puppy chewing on something inappropriate, calmly remove the item and replace it with an approved chew toy. Praise and reward your puppy when they engage with the appropriate toy. Avoid scolding or punishing, as this can create negative associations and make the problem worse.
When will the chewing phase end?
The intensity of the chewing phase typically decreases after your puppy has finished teething and their adult teeth have settled in, around 6-12 months of age. However, some dogs may continue to chew throughout their lives, especially when bored or anxious.
Are food-stuffed toys safe?
Food-stuffed toys, like the classic Kong, can be a safe and effective way to keep your puppy entertained and satisfy their chewing needs. Always supervise your puppy when using these toys, and choose appropriate fillings like canned dog food or low-sodium broth instead of high-calorie options like peanut butter.
How do I stop my puppy from chewing on furniture?
To discourage furniture chewing, use bitter chewing deterrent sprays or cover furniture with blankets or plastic coverings. Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys and redirect your puppy to these toys whenever you catch them chewing on furniture. Consistent training and positive reinforcement will also help reinforce what is and isn’t acceptable to chew.
Can I give my puppy rawhide chews?
Rawhide chews can be a controversial topic in the dog community. While some owners find them safe and effective for their puppies, others have concerns about potential digestive issues or choking hazards. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian for their recommendation on whether rawhide chews are appropriate for your puppy.
How can I make chew toys more interesting for my puppy?
To keep your puppy engaged with their chew toys, rotate them regularly and try stuffing them with treats or smearing them with peanut butter or cheese. You can also freeze chew toys or stuff them with frozen treats to provide a refreshing and long-lasting chewing experience.
My puppy keeps chewing on my shoes. What can I do?
Shoes can be particularly tempting for puppies due to their scent and texture. Keep shoes out of reach or stored in a closet when you’re not wearing them. Provide your puppy with appropriate chew toys that mimic the texture of shoes, and reward them when they choose to chew on these toys instead.
Remember, the chewing phase is a natural and necessary part of your puppy’s development. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can successfully navigate this stage and help your furry companion learn what is appropriate to chew. Stay positive, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a professional trainer if you encounter persistent challenges.