Puppies can be trained not to chew clothing.
Puppies chew for a variety of reasons. According to Doctors Foster and Smith Pet Education, boredom, curiosity and an abundance of energy often cause puppies to chew on anything within their reach. Chewing can relieve gum pain during teething, which lasts about six months. Chewing is also a puppy's favorite way of exploring his surroundings. Until the puppy learns which items are appropriate to chew, modifications can be made to discourage destructive chewing.
Instructions
1. Pent-up energy can cause inappropriate behaviors, including chewing. Hilltop Animal Hospital in Palantine, Illinois, says most dogs need at least 15 minutes of exercise daily. Some breeds require even more playtime. Working breeds, such as Rottweilers, Boxers, Retrievers, Saint Bernards and Border Collies need metal exercise as well. They respond well to games, such as finding hidden toys or treats.
2. Provide appropriate toys which will satisfy the puppy's curiosity and hold his attention. Use rubber toys that are specially designed to hold a piece of food inside. Give the puppy a toy on a rope, if that's what he enjoys. Rotate toys to create novelty.
3. Remember that chewing is a normal puppy behavior. When a puppy bites a pant leg, react calmly; do not yell or hit. Stop walking and stand still. The puppy should receive no attention while behaving inappropriately.
4. Redirect the puppy's attention by tossing a toy, suggests Ed Frawley, author of "Common Sense Solutions to House Training Problems." The puppy will learn that toys are more fun than a pant leg.
5. Praise the puppy verbally or with a pat on the back when she lets go of the pant leg. Praise given in a loud, excited manner may cause the puppy to get wound up and start biting again.
6. Use a bitter spray, such as Grannick's Bitter Apple, on the hem of pants if the puppy does not respond to distraction. The spray is safe to use on clothing, furniture and shoes. The unpleasant taste should cause the puppy to discontinue chewing on clothing.
7. Pay attention to what triggers the puppy's biting. If the puppy only chews pant legs when guests arrive, causing noise and excitement, put the puppy in a crate or separate room before guests arrive. Greet the puppy with a toy when you arrive home from work, if you know he is likely to chew your pant leg at that time.
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