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Coming home to wooden furniture or wood trim that has been chewed on by dogs or that has even been partially destroyed is a common occurrence for dog owners. So why do dogs like to chew on wood?
It’s a simple fact that dogs chew on wood because they enjoy chewing on different objects. That presents a problem because it might have significant effects. Splinters from wood can cause severe injury by becoming lodged in the mouth and esophagus. Dogs chewing on wood, for whatever reason, cause more harm than just damage to the house. And like with anything you don’t want them to eat, keeping it out of your dog’s reach is the key to preventing them from eating wood.
Take Early Measures
Once the chewing habit has begun, it could take some time for your dog to break the habit. Pick up and store any loose branches, twigs, or other non-edible objects in the yard that your dog might have turned to chewing on when no one is around as a preventative measure. In addition to continuous training and supervision, you might want to keep your dog out of rooms in the house where he could hurt himself or your valuables. When no one is home to oversee him, put up barriers or keep him in his crate. Make your anxious pet a secure crate where he can feel at ease and at home while you’re away to prevent him from chewing.
Get An Alternative
Chew toys are likely to be a favorite among dogs who enjoy destructive gnawing. It might be challenging to get a dog to quit chewing on wood furniture but chew toys will likely be the most fun solution. As much as possible, stay away from dangerous toys like genuine bones, which can splinter and hurt a dog’s jaws, throat, and stomach. To prevent your dog from choking, stay away from small-sized toys. Instead, choose toys made from materials that are meant to withstand the strong chewing of a dog.
Reduce Boredom
And if you suspect that your dog is chewing only out of boredom, frustration or separation anxiety, it may be appropriate for your dog to have some other type of entertainment and stimulation. Since dogs are very social animals, you should also provide him chances to interact with people and other animals. You can ask a family member to play with, walk, and socialize your dog if necessary, or you can hire a pet sitter.
Dog Chewing Deterrent
To prevent dogs from chewing on hardwood furniture or wood trim, apply a chewing deterrent like bitter apple spray. Some dogs will go in the opposite way just because of how bitter these substances taste. By combining vinegar and apple cider, you can create your own deterrent by spraying it on the wooden objects you want your dog to avoid. Just keep in mind that behavior modification would make deterrents more effective. You can also use lemon, lime, orange and bitter essential oils. But other dogs seem to have acquired the bitter taste. Therefore, it will depend on your own dog.
Training
Chew toys by themselves don’t usually solve a chewing issue. You must also work on your pet’s training. Until you are certain that the chewing is under control, you must keep an eye on your dog. Negative reinforcement should never be used, as it is ineffective. Don’t chastise or chase your dog when they start chewing; instead, use fundamental dog training methods. When he stops chewing, give him rewards, pats, or compliments instead. Continue doing this until your dog realizes that chewing won’t get him any rewards.
