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Archive for the ‘Puppy Mouthing’ Category

New Puppy: Chewing everything in sight!

New puppies have one problem, teething :)   It makes them uncomfortable.  When babies teeth, they cry, when puppies teeth, they chew.  Its part of mother nature, the  more they chew, the more comfort they feel.  So when you notice your new  puppy chewing on your favorite shoes, remember,he is trying to help his pain.

Does that mean you should let him chew your $50 shoes?  No! But be mindful of what he is chewing on.  If he is going for soft things, find some soft toys for him.  Dogs are just like kids and they too get bored with their toys. Try rotating them out or offering one or two at a time rather than having 50 on the floor at all times.

When he chews on something try not to say no and take it away, instead encourage him to bring it to you, and trade it for something better.  This will encourage retrieving as well as your puppy will be less likely to run and hide when he gets something.  Just today my lab got a hold of my shoe.  He looked everywhere for me and eagerly ran to me knowing I would praise him.  He probably doesn’t realize he could lay down and chew on it without me noticing.

Enjoy your new puppy training!