Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, especially puppies. It helps them explore the world, relieve teething pain, and even alleviate boredom or anxiety. However, this normal behavior can quickly become destructive if your furry friend starts gnawing on your furniture, shoes, or other valuable belongings. Understanding when dogs typically stop chewing excessively and what you can do to manage this behavior is crucial for a happy and harmonious household.
Understanding Why Dogs Chew
Before diving into the age at which dogs typically curb their chewing habits, it’s essential to understand the underlying reasons behind this behavior. Chewing isn’t just a random act; it serves various purposes throughout a dog’s life.
Teething Puppies: The Primary Chewers
Puppies, like human babies, experience teething. This process, which usually begins around three to six months of age, can be uncomfortable. Chewing provides relief by soothing their inflamed gums. During this phase, puppies will chew on almost anything they can get their paws on. Expect intense chewing during this period.
Exploring the World Through Their Mouths
Dogs use their mouths to investigate their surroundings, much like human babies do. This exploratory chewing helps them understand textures, tastes, and the overall nature of objects. This behavior is especially prominent in puppies as they learn about their environment. They are literally tasting and feeling their way through the world.
Relieving Boredom and Anxiety
Even adult dogs might chew out of boredom or anxiety. If a dog is left alone for extended periods without adequate mental or physical stimulation, it may resort to chewing to entertain itself. Separation anxiety can also trigger destructive chewing as a way for the dog to cope with its distress. Remember, a tired dog is often a good dog.
Maintaining Dental Health
Chewing can contribute to a dog’s dental health by helping to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Certain chew toys are specifically designed to promote dental hygiene. However, this isn’t typically the primary reason for destructive chewing.
The Age Factor: When Does Chewing Subside?
So, when can you expect your dog to outgrow its destructive chewing phase? The answer isn’t always straightforward, as it varies depending on the individual dog, its breed, and its environment. However, there are general timelines you can expect.
The Puppy Stage: A Chewing Frenzy (Up to 1 Year)
As mentioned earlier, puppies are notorious chewers. This phase typically lasts until they are around one year old, sometimes a little longer. During this time, their teething subsides, and they gradually learn what is acceptable to chew on and what isn’t. Be prepared for a lot of redirection and patience.
The Adolescent Phase: Lingering Habits (1-2 Years)
Even after the teething phase ends, some dogs continue to chew excessively well into their adolescent years (between 1 and 2 years old). This is often due to a combination of habit, boredom, and pent-up energy. It’s crucial to continue providing appropriate chew toys and mental stimulation during this period.
Adulthood: A Gradual Decline (2+ Years)
By the time a dog reaches adulthood (around 2 years old or older), the intense chewing phase should start to diminish significantly. Most adult dogs will still enjoy chewing on toys, but they are less likely to engage in destructive chewing unless they are bored, anxious, or lacking proper training. It is important to remember that individual dogs have different personalities.
Managing Destructive Chewing: Practical Tips and Strategies
While understanding the age factor is helpful, it’s equally important to implement strategies to manage destructive chewing and protect your belongings. Here are some practical tips that can make a big difference.
Provide Plenty of Appropriate Chew Toys
Make sure your dog has a variety of chew toys available at all times. Rotate them regularly to keep your dog interested. Different textures and materials can cater to different chewing preferences.
Offer Puzzle Toys and Interactive Games
Puzzle toys and interactive games provide mental stimulation and can help redirect your dog’s energy away from destructive chewing. These toys require your dog to solve a problem to get a treat, keeping them entertained and engaged.
Ensure Adequate Exercise
Regular physical exercise is crucial for reducing boredom and anxiety. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors. Aim for daily walks, runs, or play sessions that match your dog’s energy level.
Dog-Proof Your Home
Remove or secure any items that your dog might be tempted to chew on. Put away shoes, books, and anything else that could be a potential target. Use baby gates to restrict access to certain areas of the house.
Use Bitter Apple Spray
Bitter apple spray is a safe and effective deterrent that can be applied to furniture and other items you want to protect. The bitter taste discourages dogs from chewing on treated surfaces. Remember to reapply regularly.
Positive Reinforcement Training
Use positive reinforcement techniques to teach your dog what is acceptable to chew on and what isn’t. Reward your dog with praise and treats when it chews on its toys. Correct unwanted chewing behaviors with a firm “no” and redirect your dog to an appropriate chew toy.
Consider Crate Training
Crate training can provide your dog with a safe and secure space while you’re away. It can also prevent destructive chewing by limiting access to your belongings. Make sure the crate is comfortable and inviting, and never use it as punishment.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
If your dog’s chewing behavior is severe or persistent, consider consulting with a professional dog trainer or veterinarian. They can help identify the underlying cause of the chewing and recommend a tailored training plan or behavioral therapy.
Chewing and Breed Predispositions
While individual personality plays a significant role, some breeds are known to be more prone to chewing than others. Understanding your dog’s breed can help you anticipate and manage this behavior more effectively.
High-Energy Breeds
Breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, and Australian Shepherds are known for their high energy levels. If these breeds are not given enough exercise and mental stimulation, they are more likely to engage in destructive chewing.
Terrier Breeds
Terrier breeds, such as Jack Russell Terriers, Fox Terriers, and American Staffordshire Terriers, have a natural instinct to dig and chew. This is often rooted in their history as hunting dogs. Providing them with appropriate outlets for these instincts, such as digging pits and durable chew toys, is essential.
Working Breeds
Working breeds like German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, and Rottweilers are intelligent and require a lot of mental stimulation. If they are not challenged mentally, they may resort to chewing to alleviate boredom.
Small Breeds
While often overlooked, even small breeds like Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers can exhibit chewing behaviors, often driven by anxiety or boredom. Tailoring enrichment to their smaller size and energy levels is essential.
The Importance of Consistency
Consistency is key when managing a dog’s chewing behavior. Everyone in the household should be on the same page regarding rules and training methods. This will help prevent confusion and ensure that your dog receives consistent messages about what is acceptable and what isn’t.
Establish Clear Boundaries
Set clear boundaries and stick to them. If a certain item is off-limits, make sure everyone in the family reinforces that rule. Don’t allow your dog to chew on shoes one day and then scold it for doing so the next.
Use Consistent Commands
Use consistent commands when correcting unwanted chewing behaviors. Choose a word like “no” or “leave it” and use it consistently whenever your dog is chewing on something it shouldn’t.
Regular Training Sessions
Incorporate regular training sessions into your dog’s routine. This will help reinforce the rules and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Even short, daily training sessions can make a big difference.
When to Be Concerned: Is Chewing a Sign of a Deeper Problem?
While chewing is often a normal behavior, there are times when it can be a sign of a deeper problem. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or certified dog behaviorist.
Sudden Increase in Chewing
A sudden increase in chewing, especially in an adult dog that has never chewed destructively before, could indicate an underlying medical condition or behavioral issue.
Obsessive Chewing
If your dog is constantly chewing, even to the point of neglecting other important activities like eating or sleeping, it could be a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Chewing Accompanied by Other Symptoms
If your dog’s chewing is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, it could indicate a gastrointestinal problem or other medical condition.
Self-Injurious Chewing
If your dog is chewing on itself to the point of causing injury, it’s important to seek professional help immediately. This could be a sign of anxiety, allergies, or other medical issues.
In conclusion, while the age at which dogs stop chewing things up varies, most dogs gradually curb this behavior as they mature into adulthood. By understanding the reasons behind chewing, providing appropriate chew toys and mental stimulation, and implementing consistent training methods, you can effectively manage this behavior and protect your belongings. Remember to be patient and understanding, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
At what age can I generally expect my dog to stop excessively chewing on household items?
Generally, most dogs start to decrease their destructive chewing habits around 18 to 24 months of age. This is the period when they are transitioning from puppyhood into adulthood, and their teething phase should be long over. Their energy levels may also decrease slightly as they mature, leading to less boredom and less need to chew for entertainment or anxiety relief.
However, it’s crucial to understand that this is just an average. Individual dogs will vary based on their breed, personality, training, and environmental factors. Some breeds, like Labradors and Golden Retrievers, are known for their love of chewing well into adulthood, while others may mature more quickly. Consistent training and providing appropriate chew toys will significantly influence when your dog outgrows destructive chewing.
Why do puppies chew so much in the first place?
Puppies chew for several reasons, primarily related to their development. They are teething, which causes discomfort and the urge to relieve it by gnawing on things. Just like human babies, chewing helps soothe their gums as their adult teeth erupt.
Furthermore, puppies explore the world through their mouths. Chewing is a way for them to investigate textures, tastes, and learn about their environment. It’s also a natural instinct, stemming from their ancestral need to scavenge and process food. Lastly, chewing can be a sign of boredom or anxiety, especially if they are left alone for extended periods.
What are some effective ways to redirect my dog’s chewing towards appropriate items?
The key to redirecting chewing is to provide ample appropriate chew toys of varying textures and materials. Rotate these toys regularly to keep your dog interested and prevent boredom. When you catch your dog chewing on something they shouldn’t, firmly say “No” and immediately offer them an acceptable chew toy. Praise and reward them when they chew on the correct item.
Ensure that your dog has plenty of mental and physical stimulation to reduce the likelihood of boredom-related chewing. Daily walks, playtime, and puzzle toys can help expend their energy and keep them entertained. Consider enrolling in obedience classes or engaging in training activities to provide mental stimulation and strengthen your bond.
What if my adult dog is still chewing destructively? What could be the causes?
If an adult dog is engaging in destructive chewing, it’s important to identify the underlying cause. Separation anxiety is a common culprit, often manifesting as chewing on doorframes, furniture, or items belonging to their owner. Other behavioral issues, such as boredom, stress, or lack of exercise, can also contribute to excessive chewing.
In some cases, underlying medical conditions might be the cause. For example, dental problems could lead to chewing as a way to alleviate discomfort. If you suspect a medical issue, consult with your veterinarian. If the chewing is behavioral, seek guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to develop a tailored training plan.
Are certain dog breeds more prone to chewing than others?
Yes, certain breeds are known for having a higher propensity to chew, often due to their breeding history or inherent energy levels. Retrievers, such as Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers, are notorious chewers, as their retrieving instincts drive them to carry and mouth objects. Herding breeds, like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds, may chew out of boredom or lack of mental stimulation.
Terriers, bred for hunting and digging, may also chew to satisfy their instincts or relieve pent-up energy. While breed tendencies exist, remember that individual dogs within a breed can vary significantly. Regardless of breed, providing appropriate outlets for their energy and chewing instincts is crucial for preventing destructive behavior.
How can I puppy-proof my home to minimize potential damage from chewing?
Puppy-proofing your home is essential for protecting both your belongings and your puppy’s safety. Start by removing any items that are toxic or could be easily swallowed, such as cleaning supplies, medications, and small objects. Store these items out of reach, preferably in locked cabinets or high shelves.
Secure electrical cords and other wires, as puppies are often attracted to chewing them. Consider using cord protectors or concealing them behind furniture. Remove any valuable or sentimental items that you don’t want damaged. Provide your puppy with a safe and designated area, such as a crate or playpen, stocked with appropriate chew toys.
When should I consult a veterinarian or professional dog trainer about my dog’s chewing habits?
It’s wise to consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog’s chewing is related to a medical condition, such as dental pain or nutritional deficiencies. A veterinarian can rule out any underlying health issues and provide appropriate treatment. If the chewing seems primarily behavioral, consider seeking help from a certified professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist.
A trainer or behaviorist can help you identify the root cause of the chewing and develop a customized training plan to address the issue. They can also teach you effective techniques for redirecting chewing, managing separation anxiety, and providing adequate mental and physical stimulation. Early intervention is key to preventing destructive chewing from becoming a deeply ingrained habit.