Activities For Dogs Who Like To Chew

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Introduction

Does your dog chew on anything that they can lay their paws on? Are you constantly worried that your dog is gnawing on everything while you're away? Or maybe your dog's chewing habits make you think that your pup is anxious and in need of some attention? Whatever the case, you clearly have a chewer on your hands and may need to find a constructive outlet for all that chewing! You have come to the right place as we have some perfect activities for dogs who like to chew!

Tugging Exercise

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Easy
20 min
Items needed
Rope or Tug Toy
Activity description

Sometimes, a dog who likes to chew just needs something to keep their mouth busy. Some interactive games are a step in the right direction toward helping a dog satisfy their need to chew. Playing tug is definitely a way to put your pup's mouth to good use. Playing tug is also a great way for you to have fun with your dog. Together you can pull and play for as long as you'd like! Inside, outside, with a rope or with something simple like a towel, playing tug with your dog can be done anywhere, anytime. After a few good tug sessions, your dog will surely be too tired to chew!

Step
1
Tug toy choosing
Grab a rope, towel or tug toy for you and your dog to play with. If you don't have anything laying around that will suffice, rip an old t shirt into strips and then braid the strips together to create a rope. Your dog will especially love a custom made t-shirt rope as it will smell like you!
Step
2
Location, location
Head to a place where you can safely play tug. This may be your living room (just move all the furniture back!) or somewhere outside. As long as you have space to really get into the game, you will be fine! Sometimes tug can turn into fetch so having a little extra room to run is helpful.
Step
3
Pull and interact
Let your dog grab one end of the toy while you hold on to the other. Now one, two, three, pull! Let your dog win a little bit and then pull back hard! Your dog will try their hardest not to let go! Watch as your chewer gets a good mouth workout in. Be careful not to twist your pup's neck as you interact and show enjoyment. If your companion seems to be getting aggressive or frustrated, end the tugging session and move on to the next activity.
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Bones

Popular
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Any Day
Cheap
Easy
30 min
Items needed
Artificial bone
Real bone
Activity description

Bones are a dog's best friend, especially dogs who love to chew. Bones are great because there are so many different types which ensures your dog will never get bored! From bones that help clean teeth to real meat bones, your little chewer is sure to find a favorite bone that will keep them busy. If you do opt to give your pup a real bone (as in, from an animal), always make sure that it is raw and hasn't been cooked as cooked bones can fragment and splinter which can be deadly if eaten. An artificial bone from a pet supply store may be the way to go!

Step
1
Pick a bone
Choose a type of bone that you think your pup may like. Would your dog benefit from a hard bone or a soft bone? Are you looking for a bone that your dog could also safely eat or one simply for chewing on? Do your research and discover the wonderful world of dog bones. Always be cautious when choosing a bone; it may be a good idea to speak to your veterinarian who can give advice on the best type and size of bone for your pup's age,
Step
2
Purchase a bone
Head to the store and buy a bone or two for your pup. Start by trying a few different types and once you know your dog's favorite type to chew on, stock up! You really can never have enough bones in the house when living with a dog who likes to chew.
Step
3
Monitor the fun
Give your dog their new bone and let them chew! You can even designate an area where you prefer your pup to chew the new bone. Messy bones are perfect for outdoors while bones that do not flake or break are good for indoors. Wherever you give your chewy pup a bone, they will be happy! Never leave your pup unattended as they enjoy the bone, though. Remove broken pieces if you see any and replace the bone when it is past it's usefulness. Dogs are meant to enjoy the bone, but not destroy it. Breakage can be hazardous.
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Chew Toys

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Easy
20 min
Items needed
Chew Toy
Treats
Activity description

Rather than offering up your furniture to please a pup who needs to chew, it is a smart idea to purchase some chew toys. The best chew toys will be practically indestructible. Rubber toys tend to work best and last the longest; however ,you can certainly find a wide range of types of chew toys. Rope toys are also really good for dogs who like to chew and can also help 'floss' their teeth! Try a few different toys and see what your pup likes best - we are sure your pooch will like a nice variety to keep them extra entertained!

Step
1
Research
Decide what type of toy you think your pup will like best. Rubber chew toys are great for dogs who are good at tearing toys apart as they are very durable. Rope toys are great for dogs who like to pull and tear with their teeth. Think about your pup's preference (and what they may already be chewing on at home).
Step
2
Shopping
Go shopping! Grab your pup some nice new chew toys based on your research. Consult the experts at a reputable pet supply store before finalizing your decision. A person who knows the quality and brands of the chew toy can match the product with your dog's size and age.
Step
3
Let that pup chew!
Let your pup have at it! Give them the new toy and sit back and watch them chew away happily! If your dog is hesitant to chew on the new toy, try putting some peanut butter on it to get your pup interested. Praise your pooch for chewing on the toy rather than the furniture! Wash and store the toy after use so that your dog will be excited each time they see the toy.
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More Fun Ideas...

Extra Exercise

Sometimes a dog who is obsessed with chewing is simply bored at home. Make sure to bring your dog for extra walks to help relax them!

Kong and Peanut Butter

Next time you are playing outside, bring out a Kong-like toy with peanut butter inside. You can even prepare one to keep on hand in the freezer. Then, your canine friend can enjoy a cold, refreshing activity that involves both biting and tasting. A nice frozen treat, this can economically be given over and over.

Conclusion

Try not to get discouraged with your dog who is a master chewer. Your dog didn't mean to chew on the leg of an expensive chair! Get that chewing frustration an outlet in the form of a toy, bones, or by playing tug. These are just a few ideas that you should try to help your dog overcome their chewing past time. Ask friends at the dog park for their resolutions to this natural canine tendency.