Owning a dog can be a rich and fulfilling experience for many people, even though sometimes they can do some questionable things. Dogs that like to chew sticks, or other items around the home or yard, need extra attention for a variety of reasons. Problematic chewing can be normal for some dogs, or a symptom of an underlying mental or physical condition for others. Knowing the reasons and causes behind the chewing is important.
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Breeds
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Some dog breeds have a genetic predisposition to chewing. Hunters like retrievers, hounds and pointers find comfort in just having something in their mouths. Keeping chew toys around the house is a good idea.
Habits
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All dogs are creatures of habit. Breaking their daily routine can cause them to act out. Some breeds are particularly sensitive to anxiety. A simple change in decor can send a greyhound, chihuahua and some teacup varieties chewing on your furniture and outdoor plants.
Attention
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Spending a lot of quality time with your dog is important. Dogs are pack animals and they require frequent companionship. Loneliness and boredom can cause a dog to chew on furniture and other things.
Activity
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Dogs need exercise and room to run and release energy. If a dog isn't given enough running room and time to exhaust himself, then pent up energy can be expressed in the form of chewing on practically everything.
Training
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Poor training can cause a dog to chew. Lack of discipline during his teething stage is partially responsible in these cases.
Nutrition
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If your dog's nutritional needs are not being met, then chewing on sticks, or even rocks, can be a sign of a vitamin or mineral deficiency. This is your dog's way of trying to compensate for the loss.
Pica
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Pica affects dogs and humans alike. The eating disorder is characterized by cravings for non-food items, such as sticks, rocks, paint, dirt and cloth.
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