Having a pet as your best friend is truly amazing. But on the flip side, dealing with a destructive dog can be quite a tough challenge! Whether it’s your plants, furniture, or even toys, nothing is safe from their playful destruction—it can all be in pieces within minutes!
This type of behavior can seriously strain the relationship between you and your dog. So, how can you manage it? Below, we dive into the world of destructive dogs: why they do what they do, how to handle it, and ways to correct their behavior!
Why does your dog destroy everything?
It’s incredibly frustrating to come home and find your belongings chewed up or broken, right? And it’s even worse when something important gets destroyed.
At moments like these, it’s easy to lose patience and blame your pet. But hold on—dogs often act out of natural instinct. So, it’s important to take a step back and assess how to properly train them.
Dogs pick up a lot from humans, but they also have deeply ingrained behaviors, like chewing and gnawing to play or burn off energy.
The issue? Many dogs live in confined spaces and don’t have the room to express their natural tendencies. With all that bottled-up energy, they’ll redirect it toward activities like chewing on household items.
Should you just let your dog keep destroying things because it’s instinct?
Absolutely not. Even though the behavior stems from instinct, when your dog starts tearing up plants, furniture, or even walls, it’s a clear signal that something in their environment needs to change—especially if the dog is already an adult.
In today’s world, many pets spend long hours alone at home. Boredom is a leading cause of destructive behavior, so it’s worth considering ways to keep your pet busy while you’re out.
On the other hand, if your dog is chewing on furniture, beds, or clothes while you’re right there, they may just be craving your attention—whether it’s for a game, a cuddle, or even a walk.
That’s why it’s essential to understand the underlying reasons for your dog’s actions. If they’re constantly chewing on your things, there are steps you can take to create a better environment for both you and your furry companion!
Is it normal for puppies to destroy everything?
Yes, absolutely! A puppy’s hyperactive and destructive nature is completely normal. Just like children, puppies love to play—and for them, chewing on anything they find (shoes, carpets, furniture) is their favorite pastime.
If you’ve recently adopted a puppy, remember to be patient and gently correct this behavior. As they mature, they’ll usually grow out of the habit. But if they’re still chewing up everything as an adult, that’s when you need to dig deeper and figure out what’s going on.
How can you stop a destructive dog?
Destructive behavior usually signals a lack of stimulation. If your dog keeps chewing things, try these tips to engage their mind and help them burn off all that excess energy!
Keep your dog occupied
To stop your dog from causing chaos, invest in activities that keep them engaged, even when you’re not around. Creating a stimulating environment is key. It’ll give your pet something to focus on instead of tearing things up.
If your dog gets lonely, try leaving the radio or TV on. Pets with separation anxiety often find comfort in this. You can also use puzzle feeders that make dogs work to get their food—this not only keeps them busy but stimulates their brain.
Provide plenty of toys
Fill their space with durable, interesting toys. Opt for those that make noise or are tough enough to stand up to their chewing. And don’t give them everything at once! Rotate toys to keep them feeling fresh and exciting.
Walks and playtime
Physical activity is essential for pets, too. When you’re home, spend quality time with your dog. Go for walks, play fetch, run around—anything to help them burn off energy and stay happy.
Consult a professional
If your dog’s behavior is particularly challenging or hard to figure out, it might be time to consult a trainer or a vet specializing in animal behavior.
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on managing a destructive dog, why not explore Petz’s products? They’ve got a wide range of toys and tools to help improve your dog’s behavior. Visit their site today!