Make sure that the dog gets enough exercise
In order to counter the dog's desire to chew, take him on a thirty minute walk, or play ball with him before you leave the house for work. This will allow the dog to relax and spend a little energy. The exercise will be good for you as well!
Nutrition and health: If your older dog suddenly develops a destruction problem, immediately consult your veterinarian in order to make sure that the behavior is not caused by a health problem. No matter how old your dog is, you must make sure that his diet is adequate for his needs. Certain dogs have an urge to chew on certain substances such as paper or wood. This is sometimes attributed to pica, a condition that causes a dog to look to outside sources for missing components in their diet. Other dogs use destruction in reaction to a change in their diet, such as reducing their food intake from twice a day to once a day. In order to counter this problem, feed your dog twice a day.
A summary of the procedure to redirect behavior
- Prevention: give the dog "acceptable" objects to chew.
- Eliminate from the dog’s immediate environment any objects liable to cause destruction.
- First, restrict behavior; then, try to catch the dog at fault.
- Physical exercises.
- Catching the dog in the act and applying interactive correction.
- Correction at a distance.
- Balancing the meals.
The security of “acceptable objects"
- Eliminate all objects which have broken, split extremities, or jagged corners.
- Eliminate all objects which the dog could swallow.
- Eliminate all objects which cannot be washed or sterilized.
- Eliminate all torn ropes and stuffed animals, as well as broken squeaky toys.
Dogs that dig: Certain dogs, such as terriers, dig so much that it is wise to assign a section of your yard for this endeavor. When the dog digs at the appropriate place, such as a sandbox or other specific area, congratulate him with the SR "SOUND + GOOD!" + a reward. At the beginning o. the education process, you must clearly show the dog that the place you have selected was specifically assigned for digging.
With a shovel, bury some rewards so that the dog must dig to get to them. Congratulate him when he digs at the right place. If the dog persists in digging where it is not permitted, give him the VW "HEY!" + SHORT SPRAY swiftly. If the dog thinks you are absent, give him the long spray, with no verbal warning.
