How to manage your puppy's chewing behaviour
If your new puppy wraps its toothy grin around an item they're not supposed to, the first thing to remember is: Don't panic.
Chewing is a normal puppy behaviour. It is not only a way for pups to explore the world around them, but chewing also helps with relieving any teething pain, stress or anxiety.
However, if you're finding your pup is a champion chewer with eyes on objects you'd prefer them not to chomp, there are ways to help manage their behaviour.
You can see more tips from Dr Katrina Warren in the video above.
Chewing is a natural part of puppy behaviour, though there are some methods to help them chew on appropriate items. Getty
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Puppy-proof your space
If you're worried about your pup chewing valuable items, make sure they are out of sight and in a safe space away from your pup.
Make sure shoes are put away and books are placed on a higher shelf. In short, limit the temptation for your pup.
Create a safe space
Puppy playpens offer a great safe space for your pup.
In the playpen they are not only free to somewhat roam, but it's a great way to introduce your puppy to appropriate chew toys and edible chews.
It's important to make sure you introduce chew toys to your pup that are appropriate for their age as well as the breed.
Watch and learn
Having an understanding of your puppy's daily behaviours is another great way to better understand your pup.
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Rotating your pup's chew toys can help in reducing their level of bordem. Getty Images/iStockphoto
By supervising them, watching them during their waking hours you'll get a sense of their more active times and when distraction techniques are likely to be better received.
Putting in the time in the early stages with your pup could mean the difference between getting their chewing under control earlier.
Keep it interesting
Rather than give your puppy all its toys at once, introduce it to multiple toys over a couple of days. This could include rotating two or three toys over a few days.
The idea is you want your pup to stay interested rather than be bored.
Raw bones, never cooked
If your puppy is more than 12 weeks old, they could be ready for a bone to chew. When giving your pup bones to chew, make sure they are raw natural bones and not cooked.
Increasing your puppy's exercise can help with chewing behaviour. Getty Images/iStockphoto
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The raw bones will help your pup with its teeth and keep them clean. A cooked bone is dangerous, as it can splinter and could lodge in your pup's throat.
It's best to supervise your pup when allowing it to chew its first raw bone.
Increase your dog's exercise
By giving your pup an opportunity to tire itself out can also help reduce chewing.
If your pup is too young to venture outdoors, they can still enjoy mental exercise.
This could include a lick mat with food, sometime as simple as finding a treat in a used cardboard box or a rolling toy with treats inside.