There are 2 big problems new dog or puppy owners face, dog chewing and house breaking. Your dog will find numerous things to chew in an empty house.

I heard of a dog that chewed the front piece of wood on a couch; the owner didn't realize it until she sat down one day and got a splinter on her butt!!

It was at this time she decided it was time to teach her dog not to chew on things!

Chewing is a normal behavior. Dogs will chew to relax, that is why your dog is so content to gnaw on a piece of rawhide.

If your dog is bored, he will end up chewing on things. How many times has a dog been left at home, with his owner at work, only to come home and find his slippers in shreds!

Dogs like stimulation, and they love their masters,so boredom sets in and they react! Even so, chewing is a destructive behavior that needs to be changed.

If you have a puppy, he may chew because he is teething, and just like with a baby it is uncomfortable. A frozen rawhide bone can help break this habit. Keep a few in the freezer for him.

Dogs usually have a short attention span and it is a good idea to keep toys or rawhide chews on hand. Give your dog a chew every few days. A chew is something to maul on with his mouth, and not your favorite shoe!

Dog chews come in a selection of sizes, shapes, and flavors. Each one will have a different scent,which will keep him interested.

Always make sure there is plenty of water for him to drink.

Provide your dog with lots of toys. This will give him comfort when he is alone.

Remember, when you are gone, your dog misses you. This the time they get in the most destructive trouble; wether it's chewing, digging. You need to give him an outlet for his loneliness.

Play with him and toys, so he learns that they are fun and okay to chew on. Eventually he will choose the toy over other household items that are off limits.

Giving a DOG AN OLD SHOE OR SOCK AS A TOY, will just confuse him. He does not know the difference between a shoe that is his toy, or a shoe that you were planning on wearing the next day.

Boredom is the big reason for dog chewing. Everyone goes to school or work each day...poor dog. He doesn't understand the radio, nor can he talk on the phone, so he chews out of boredom! I know people who leave the T.V. show "Animal Planet" on all day while they're at work. If this training issue can be solved with a few toys or rawhide, find a way to accommodate your playful dog.

Be Sure To Visit: Sit, Stay, Fetch to learn how to put an end to your dog behavior problems.

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