WHY DOGS CHEW

The Importance of Chewing

Chewing is a natural instinct for all dogs, whether it’s the wolf outside or the dog in your living room. An instinct to chew is often higher in puppies than adult dogs. Whatever the age of your dog chewing is a natural behaviour that should be appropriately channelled rather than punished or discouraged.

If your dog treats his chews like a highly prized object, its important to know that if you try to take if off him, you are very likely to get a growl or snarl. As humans we get very upset when dogs growl, but this is a really important element of canine communication - A growl is a clear warning and dogs that growl are far less likely to bite as long as you heed the growl and back off.

I always explain to Owners that a chew or toy is the equivalent to a dog of me giving you a diamond ring - If I snatch it back, what are you going to do?

You are going to object... loudly!

By giving your dog a chew or toy and allowing him to take off to a quiet place, and leaving him alone with it you are helping to build trust. As your dog trusts you, he will be more likely to allow you near him when he has a prized possession. Building trust builds your bond with your dog, helps him to feel secure and settled, and shows him that you are the leader of your family pack.

Taking a prized chew off your dog teaches him NOT to trust you - think of the diamond ring - How are you going to react to me if you think I'm going to take it off you? Showing your dog trust is a sign of leadership and respect that your dog will reciprocate.

Most dogs have a hierarchy of prized possessions and you will know by his reaction which he values the most as these will be the ones he hides, or sneaks away to eat in peace. If you have small children (Or indeed any children!) they must be trained NOT to go anywhere near your dog when he is chewing. This is essential to keep your children safe.

You may also choose not to give your dog any really high value chews or toys when the children or visitors (including other dogs) are around as it may be too much for your dog to cope with and may trigger a grumble reaction.

Know your dog and set him up to succeed!

Chewing relieves Stress

The act of chewing raises levels of beneficial chemicals in the brain and body which has the effect of reducing stress. Often anxious or active dogs benefit from having a job to do, having a purpose. The more the brain can be engaged in learning and carrying out new behaviours the more satisfied and relaxed the dog will be. This also improves self-esteem hugely in nervous dogs.

Providing appropriate chew toys (in addition to adequate exercise) can help lessen anxiety and give your dog something on which to focus their attention. Scented toys provide added stimulation, as do toys that incorporate puzzles, treats or chews. If your dog is a shredder, make sure that they don’t eat up whatever it is they shred, but the act of shredding is linked to instinctive urges to tear up food before eating it. Many domestic dogs stop short of eating what they have shredded, but some do eat the lot, so pay attention and chose chews that wont hurt your dog if he ingests them.

Each dog varies in how heavy a chewer they are. Chewing can become destructive if not managed well, so it’s important to let our dogs chew on appropriate things when they need to. Provided we supply safe items for them to chew on, the behaviour itself is very beneficial. Encourage your dog to chew as it's a calming activity that will promotes endorphins and relaxation.

Chewing burns excess Energy

While going for a long walk, throwing a ball around, or taking your dog for a jog around the neighbourhood is ideal to shave off layers of energy, chewing also works the neck, facial and mouth muscles.

When the weather isn’t nice enough to go outside, a good chew session and mental muscle flex are great ways to wear out an active pup and calm an overactive mind. A tired dog is a happy dog.

Dogs need mental exercise as much, if not more, than they need physical exercise. Chewing is a great way to keep your dog’s body and mind occupied. Treats and chew toys are very exciting and the act of chewing itself takes a lot of concentration and brain power. It’s far better to have your dog work hard on a toy or bone than it is your dining table legs or shoes!

Puppies Explore the World with their Mouths

Puppies learn from everything you do (And don’t!) let them do. Introducing your puppy to appropriate chewing outlets gives him a safe way to begin to explore the world through his mouth.

Those tiny needle sharp teeth need something to get them through the teething process more effectively than nipping your bare skin. Teach a positive association with chew toys instead of your TV cords and couch corners and maintain your dog's interest by changing chew toys regularly.

Highlights Potential Health Issues

If your dog enjoys chewing and then suddenly, or over time, loses interest, it may indicate a potential dental issue. Dogs don’t always show us if they’re uncomfortable or in pain, but we can learn to identify when something is wrong based on changes from normal behaviour.

A Sign of Stress?

When dogs are anxious or depressed, they often chew their paws or lick and scratch compulsively. Keep an eye on dogs that do this, and ask your Vet or a Behaviourist for advice if it doesn't cease after a day or two.

What to Chew?

Chewing is highly beneficial to puppies and dogs of all ages. It allows them to exercise their natural instincts, provides them proper mental stimulation and keep their mouths clean and healthy. The types of chews you buy will depend on your dog’s specific requirements, such as his size, age and chewing habits. A small dog or puppy that chews lightly won’t need something as strong and hard as an adult that chews very heavily. Chewing is a natural behaviour that should understood by all dog owners. It relieves boredom and destructive behaviour and can even help an anxious dog to cope with separation.

Offer your dog some edible things to chew, like bully sticks, pig ears, dried cheese sticks or rice bones or other natural chews. Be aware that dogs can sometimes choke on edible chews, especially if they bite off and swallow large chunks, so keep an eye on them. If in doubt ask for advice at your local Pet Shop.