How to Stop Your Miniature Schnauzer From Chewing

Miniature Schnauzers are small, 11- to 18-pound dogs with an alert temperament, an intelligent mind and the desire to please. Unfortunately, despite being obedient and friendly, Miniature Schnauzers do have a tendency to engage in bad behaviors like chewing, digging and excessive barking. It's a fairly common behavior that comes about as a result of boredom or excess energy. To stop your Miniature Schnauzer from chewing, you'll need to dog proof your home and then teach your dog what it can chew.

Instructions

    • 1

      Dog proof your home by placing chewable items either inside a closet or on a high table or shelf that the Schnauzer can't reach. Also, cover electrical outlets and remove electrical cords from the Schnauzer's reach.

    • 2

      Keep your Miniature Schnauzer in a crate when no one is around to supervise his behavior. This prevents him from chewing important items, as well as potentially dangerous ones.

    • 3

      Teach your Miniature Schnauzer to only chew certain items. Every time you catch your Schnauzer chewing something it's not supposed to, quickly say "NO" and then replace the item with a chewable toy, such as a Nylabone, Kong toy, chew rope or squeaky ball.

    • 4

      Apply nasty-tasting liquids to pieces of furniture that your Schnauzer likes to chew. Natural household products like vinegar work, but it's better to invest in something like Bitter Apple -- a sprayable liquid that's easy to use and refill.

    • 5

      Keep at least three to five chewable toys always handy for your Schnauzer to prevent him from chewing what he's not supposed to. Dogs, especially young dogs, chew as a means to investigate unusual objects. Select toys with different textures and sounds to keep him interested.

    • 6

      Spend time with your Schnauzer. He can't learn what to expect unless you're around to train him properly. Be nice and consistent, and don't discipline him with any form of negative punishment. Instead, reward him for doing correct things like chewing on a toy instead of a book.