Rather than getting mad at your little pup when he or she destroys their new bed, it is important to understand how to stop dogs chewing their beds
When you have spent money on a plush bed for your dog, it can be very frustrating to see that he has chewed it to pieces! Rather than getting mad at your little pup, it is crucial to understand why dogs chew their beds so that you can then get them to stop doing it. A dog chewing their bed is a common issue that many pet owners face, often caused by boredom, anxiety, or stress. With that in mind, read on to discover how to stop dogs from chewing their beds and address problem chewing in your home.
Why Do Dogs Chew Their Beds?
Before we reveal how to stop dogs from chewing their beds, let’s first explore the different reasons they do this in the first place: Chewing, digging, or even peeing on the dog's bed are common behaviours that a variety of factors can cause.
Anxiety and Boredom
This is one of the main reasons why dogs chew their beds. Whether you have a busy home life or are often away from home, it is essential to remember that most dogs require mental and physical stimulation. Providing regular physical exercise and physical stimulation is essential in preventing destructive behaviours, as it helps dogs burn off excess energy and stay mentally engaged. If your dog is not being walked regularly and doesn’t have many toys to play with, they may become destructive out of sheer boredom or because they are trying to get a reaction from their owners. Regular exercise and interactive play can help prevent destructive chewing by alleviating boredom and promoting mental stimulation. Ensuring your dog receives both mental and physical stimulation is key to keeping them content and reducing unwanted behaviours. Chewing also combats boredom and provides an outlet for excess energy, which can help prevent destructive behaviour. This attention-seeking can also be a consequence of separation anxiety. Excessive barking is another behavioural sign that may indicate your dog is experiencing anxiety. Some dog breeds are more prone to separation anxiety than others. Recognising these behavioural signs early allows you to intervene and support your pet's well-being.
In some cases, underlying behavioural issues may be the root cause of destructive chewing. Using effective training techniques, such as positive reinforcement training, can help redirect your dog's chewing habits. Providing appropriate outlets and appropriate toys for chewing is important to prevent damage to beds and furniture. Chewing can also help relieve anxiety in some dogs by giving them a way to manage stress. Triggers such as other dogs or outside noises may also contribute to your dog's anxiety and chewing behaviour. Addressing these issues is crucial for your pet's well-being and overall well-being.
Hunger
A dog on a calorie-restricted diet may destroy or chew objects in an attempt to find additional sources of nutrition. Dogs tend to direct this chewing toward objects that smell like food or are associated with food. Of course, this shouldn't be the case with a dog bed, yet hunger can cause a reaction like this, so it is a possibility.
Underlying Health Issues
If you cannot trace the matter back to a lack of enrichment in your dog’s daily activities, there is always the concern that an underlying health problem could be the issue. Dental problems are a common cause of destructive chewing, so be sure to check your dog's mouth for any signs of discomfort or injury. It is a good idea to discuss this with your vet if you suspect any type of issue, such as a gastrointestinal problem, dental problems, behavioural issues, or a compulsive chewing disorder. Maintaining good oral health is crucial for a dog's overall well-being.
Teething
If your pet is a puppy, they may be chewing their dog bed because they are going through the teething stage, a key developmental period. When a puppy is between the age of four and six-months-old, he will chew instinctively to help his teeth navigate through the growing process. The discomfort caused by baby teeth coming in can make puppies seek relief through chewing. As puppies transition from baby teeth to adult teeth, chewing helps ease the pain and supports healthy dental development. Young dogs are especially prone to chewing during this stage. Addressing chewing behaviours at a young age is important to prevent future problems and encourage positive habits. Your dog may be trying to relieve the tenderness in his teeth and gums.
Instinct and Exploration
Aside from the reasons mentioned, many dogs also chew their beds because they are exploring. Just like babies, pups explore most of the world via their mouths. This behaviour may evolve as a way for your dog to try and get a better understanding of the world around them. Chewing is also a natural way for dogs to relieve stress or frustration. Some breeds have strong chewing tendencies due to their instinctual drives, which can significantly influence a dog's behaviour. Just like cats scratching, chewing is part of a dog's instinctual behaviour, and sometimes dogs destroy their beds as a result of these natural urges. Because of this, it is vital to manage your expectations regarding your dog’s overall chewing behaviour.
Enjoyment
It could merely be that your dog enjoys chewing his bed! Some dogs enjoy the act of chewing on their beds, finding the texture or sensation satisfying. It may look, smell, and taste good. Using deterrent sprays can make the bed taste unpleasant and help discourage this behaviour.
Creating a Calm Environment
A calm environment plays a key role in reducing destructive chewing behaviour in dogs. When dogs feel safe and relaxed, they are less likely to chew their bed out of anxiety or stress. Dog owners can help by setting up a comfortable, quiet space where their dog can unwind, away from loud noises and household commotion. Playing soothing music or using pheromone diffusers can further promote a sense of calm and security. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are also essential for burning off pent-up energy and preventing boredom, which often leads to destructive chewing. Providing a variety of appropriate chew toys and interactive toys gives your dog healthy outlets for their natural urge to chew, keeping their mind engaged and their mouth busy. Positive reinforcement and consistent training help reinforce good chewing behaviour, making it easier for your dog to learn what is acceptable to chew. By combining these strategies, dog owners can create a calm environment that supports their dog’s well-being and reduces the risk of destructive behaviour.
How to Stop Dogs Chewing Their Beds
The approach that you need to take when figuring out how to stop dogs from chewing their beds will depend on the reason they are chewing their bed. Enrolling your dog in a training class can help address chewing behaviours by providing mental stimulation and socialisation. Using a dog crate as a training tool can also be effective in managing destructive habits. As mentioned, if you suspect that your dog may have an underlying health issue, the best course of action is to take your dog to the vet.
To help your dog learn appropriate behaviours, focus on using effective training techniques such as positive reinforcement and providing suitable chew toys. The goal is to have a properly trained dog that does not engage in bed chewing or other problem behaviours. Addressing these issues with the right training techniques can make a significant difference. And what is dog-proof fabric?
Introduction to Dog Chewing
Dog chewing is a natural and instinctive behaviour that many dog owners encounter, especially when it comes to their furry friend’s bed. Dogs chew for various reasons, including teething, boredom, anxiety, and excess energy. While it can be frustrating to see your dog destroy their bed, it’s important to remember that chewing is a normal part of a dog’s development and daily life. Understanding why dogs chew is the first step in helping to prevent them from chewing their beds and creating a calm environment at home. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of dog chewing, offer practical tips to prevent destructive chewing, and share strategies to help your dog feel more relaxed and content.
Exercising Your Dog
If you feel that your dog is chewing his bed because of boredom, they may be exhibiting other signs of restlessness and frustration. One of the best things you can do for your dog is to exercise it more. It is vital that your dog gets enough physical exercise and physical stimulation to help prevent destructive behaviours. Regular walks, playtime, and interactive toys provide both physical exercise and physical stimulation, which are essential for your dog's well-being.
Adult dogs also require regular exercise to prevent boredom and maintain healthy habits. Providing mental and physical stimulation for your dog can help reduce anxiety, redirect destructive behaviours, and promote relaxation. Before exercising, warm up vigorously for between 30 and 60 minutes. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive chewing. You should also ensure that your dog is never left in a crate for more than eight hours without a break. If you are not able to get home to let your dog out, find a trusted friend or neighbour who will do this for you.
Keeping Dog Toys Around
There are additional steps you can take to help your dog stop chewing his bed. These include occupying your dog with easily accessible dog toys when you are not home. Make sure to provide appropriate toys that are designed for chewing, as these can help redirect your dog's chewing behaviour away from your dog's bed. In addition to stuffed animals and chew toys, offer your dog interactive toys that you can stuff with treats or food. These methods ensure your dog’s mind is active while working for his reward and provide appropriate outlets for natural chewing instincts. Chewing appropriate toys also helps keep your dog's teeth clean and supports good oral health. We also recommend continuing redirection training for puppies. If your dog is an adult and still chews his bed, provide him with a sanctioned chew toy.
Use a Deterrent Spray
You can also use a deterrent spray as an attempt to break the fixation that your dog has with chewing his bedding. Deterrent sprays are designed to have an unpleasant taste for dogs, discouraging them from chewing on sprayed items. Don’t simply use the spray on its own, though. You will need to find something that keeps your furry friend occupied. Keeping him occupied is crucial for his happiness and overall well-being.
When using a deterrent, it is a good idea to add a small amount onto some cotton wool or tissue. Gently place this into your dog's mouth to test the reaction. Doing this will enable your dog to experience the taste of it. He will spit it out if he doesn’t like it. If your dog doesn’t find the taste very pleasant, you will notice. He may drool or shake his head, or potentially retch. Your dog certainly won’t pick up the piece of cotton wool or tissue again. Ideally, your dog will have learned the connection between the odour of the deterrent and the taste, making him much more likely to stop chewing items that have the same smell.
You can then spray this deterrent on items you do not want your dog to chew, including the dog's bed and anything else your dog has been chewing. Continue applying the deterrent daily for 2 to 4 weeks. You do need to recognise, though, that deterrents are never enough on their own. They can be very beneficial in the short term, but you will need to do more than this if you are to get your dog to stop chewing once and for all.
Upgrading the Dog Bed to Something More Durable
Upgrading your gear could also be the answer. Did you know that you can get chew-proof dog beds? Some dogs love to rip the filling out of products. No matter how much you try, you just can’t seem to prevent it. In this case, it is beneficial to look for extra-durable dog beds that have added layers and use more robust, durable materials such as rubber, nylon, or tough covers so that they can withstand the most destructive chewers. If your dog has strong chewing tendencies, consider beds specifically designed with extra-tough, chew-resistant features. Durable beds are generally more resistant to chewing compared to regular dog beds.
Avoid Confusion
Ultimately, you need to make sure your dog knows the difference between things that he should and should not chew. As a responsible dog owner, it is important to provide clear guidance and set boundaries to help your pet understand what is acceptable. It is vital to avoid confusion. Many pet owners may provide their furry friends with items from around the house they no longer want, such as discarded cushions and old shoes. However, your dog is not going to know the difference between these cushions and shoes compared with the cushions on your sofa and the shoes you still wear. It is not fair to expect your dog to know the difference between the two.
Don't Punish an Anxious Dog for Chewing Their Bed
What if your dog is chewing his bed because of anxiety? Destructive chewing can often be related to stress and separation anxiety. If something is making your dog feel uncomfortable or nervous, this could easily be a stressor that has resulted in him compulsively chewing his dog bed. You’ll need to be patient and go the extra mile when dealing with this type of destructive chewing, as patience and understanding are crucial for your pet's well-being. Deterrents, toys, and redirection are not enough on their own. Providing appropriate outlets for chewing can help relieve anxiety by giving your dog a way to manage stress and frustration. We certainly do not recommend punishing your dog under any circumstances. If you punish your dog through the likes of yelling, spanking, or muzzling, the chances are that this is going to make the chewing worse, especially if your dog has severe anxiety.
Figure Out What's Causing the Nervous Behaviour
So, what can you do to stop your dog from chewing his bed because of their nervous nature? The first step is to identify the types of stressors that are triggering your dog's behaviour. Unfortunately, some of these triggers may be completely beyond your control. However, once you understand what is making your dog feel nervous, you will be in the best possible position to deal with it. For example, some dogs may feel incredibly anxious and upset when they are around other pets, other dogs, or in the presence of small children. If this is the case, establish new boundaries so that your dog feels more secure.
Many dogs exhibit anxiety related to noises, including outside sounds such as traffic, fireworks, or household noises, which can be very challenging to control. After all, you can’t prevent neighbourhood traffic, fireworks, thunder, etc.! There are some things you can do, for example, try moving your dog’s bed to a different part of your home. It is also a good idea to ask family members to keep calm whenever there is a noisy disturbance. If you add to the commotion, it will only make things worse for your dog.
Watch for behavioural signs of anxiety, such as restlessness, excessive barking, or destructive chewing, as these can help you identify when your dog is feeling stressed and needs support.
Use a Dog Pheromone Product
In addition to identifying the triggers that set your dog off, using a synthetic dog pheromone product can also be helpful. These are popular and can be used to help with treatment for various nervous system issues. These products are available in multiple forms, including individually wrapped wipes, sprays, plug-in diffusers, and collars. They do not have any odours, and they mimic the natural calming pheromones that mothers release for their puppies. Exposure to calming pheromones can reduce anxiety-related destructive behaviours in dogs. When using pheromone products, you will need to be patient. These items do not work overnight; they need to be reapplied monthly. Consistency is key.
Consider Behaviour Therapy
You can also try engaging in behaviour therapy. Behaviour therapy is a more involved approach. Yet it may be a necessity if your dog is suffering from severe anxiety or other behavioural issues. Speak with your vet. They may be able to recommend specialists in the area who can assist you with this.
Leaving on the TV or the Radio
We also recommend leaving the radio or television on when you're away from home. Doing this can have a calming impact on an anxious dog throughout the day. It helps them to feel like they are not alone. You can find music specifically designed to soothe dogs.
Has Your Dog Got a Compulsive Chewing Disorder?
Dogs can become compulsive chewers, so it is vital to watch out for this behaviour. Some experts believe that this behaviour results from weaning too early. For example, prior to seven or eight weeks of age. No matter the reason, if your dog chews fabrics for an extended period and you are struggling to distract him, it may be that this behaviour has become compulsive. Persistent chewing can also be a sign of a problem with chewing, which may require professional intervention. In this case, you may need to get professional help. A certified dog trainer or veterinary behaviourist with experience in treating compulsive behaviours will be able to assist. Luckily, thanks to the Internet, it is easier than ever before to find the right person to help you. So there you have it: some of the different steps on how to stop dogs from chewing their beds. We hope that you will have success with some of these tips.
Conclusion and Final Tips
In conclusion, dog chewing is a natural behaviour, but with patience, consistency, and the right approach, it can be managed effectively. By understanding the reasons behind your dog’s chewing and creating a calm environment, dog owners can help prevent their furry friend from chewing their bed and engaging in other destructive behaviours. Remember to provide durable dog beds, plenty of appropriate chew toys, and regular mental stimulation to keep your dog happy and healthy. If your dog’s chewing behaviour continues despite your efforts, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice from a veterinarian or animal behaviourist.
