Dogs can be destructive for many reasons. Puppies get adult teeth between approximately 4- and 8-months old, and during this time can wreak havoc on your belongings. Many times, a dog is under-exercised and under-stimulated, and gets destructive because it is bored and needs an outlet for its energy. This is common with working dogs, terriers and dogs in the herding group. Separation is another common cause for destructiveness. If a dog is destructive, it is sending you a message. Once you figure out the cause, you have lots of options to fix the problem.
Things You'll Need
- Dog chew toys
- Crate or ex-pen
Instructions
Determine why your dog is being destructive. If he is a puppy, he may be teething and will chew everything in sight. Restrict his access in the house with a crate or ex-pen and give him plenty of chew toys. Exercise and play will help keep his mind off his sore mouth, too. Teething can last several months, so be patient.
Consider separation anxiety if your dog is only destructive when you leave the house, or when she is separated from you. Sometimes, dogs who have separation anxiety will potty in the house as well. According to Nicholas Dodman, DVM, veterinary behaviorist at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, separation anxiety is a common and complex problem, often caused by spoiling the dog. Contact your veterinarian or a trainer for advice on dealing with this. Severe cases may require medication, as well as behavior modification.
Take your dog's age and breed into consideration. Some dogs can be hyperactive up to about 3-years old, and some breeds are naturally very high-energy.
Contain your dog with a crate, an ex-pen or in a safe area when you can't monitor her activity. Give her a safe-chew or interactive dog toy to keep her busy while she's confined.
Exercise your dog daily. This can be a game of fetch or hide and seek in your house or yard, a walk around the block or a run in the park.
Train your dog. Basic obedience training helps with overall manners, but teaching her tricks will also occupy her mind and help prevent boredom.
Go to school with your dog. There are many classes and activities you can do with your dog, including obedience, rally obedience, agility, flyball, tracking and herding. A single-hour class can wipe your dog out for the rest of the day, if she has to work hard mentally and physically.
Schedule play dates with other friendly dogs, or find a doggie day care. Even once a week will be beneficial. Not only will your dog get to blow off energy playing, but she will hone her canine social skills.