Dog owners accept the fact that some of their cherished belongings will disappear to the ravages of their pup. When you come home to see that Fido has destroyed your grandmother's antique armchair, it is time to take matters into your own hands. Teaching a dog that it is unacceptable to chew on wood furniture is something that most owners will have to contend with at some point or another. This task is only possible with time, patience and consistency.
Things You'll Need
- Dog
- Wooden furniture
- Toys
- Bitter apple spray
Instructions
Determine the cause of your dog's chewing problem. If your dog is a puppy, he may not have learned that chewing the furniture is unacceptable, or he may be teething. According to the Humane Society of the United States, adult dogs may chew out of boredom, anxiety, fear or a need for attention.
Supervise your canine companion. Each time you see him begin to chew or approach the furniture of his preference, give the command of "no."
Offer your dog with toys that are OK for her to gnaw at. By giving her a diversion each time she attempts to chew on the furniture, you are redirecting her undesirable behavior into an acceptable behavior.
Praise your dog each time she chooses an acceptable outlet for her chewing urges. This reinforces the thought that what she is doing is correct. Positive reinforcement means she is more likely to pursue that course of action again in the future.
Ensure your dog is getting enough exercise. Dogs who are bored or in a mentally stagnant environment can chew to alleviate those feelings. A well-exercised dog is physically and mentally stimulated, and less likely to pursue destructive behaviors.
Spray an unpleasant substance specifically formulated to divert a dog's ravages on your wooden furniture. Bitter apple spray is one example of a product that can be applied to furniture that will give your dog an unpleasant taste in his mouth.