 Most
puppies have a strong desire to investigate there surroundings, this is
a totally natural behavior, but sometimes this can lead to problems.
For example, digging up your garden or chewing on your new slippers can
be a problem. For the pet, this is a normal thing, but it can make
the puppies owner upset or angry. It may be difficult at the time
but we must try and remember that punishment is not necessarily the solution
to this problem.
What is? Reinforcing
good behavior with praise works better than punishment to correct problem
behavior such as inappropriate chewing and digging. Not only does
this work better, it keeps your puppy happier as well.
Some possible solutions...Chew
Toys. Since your puppy is going to have the desire to chew give or
make available appropriate things to chew on. Begin with a variety
of puppy chew toys (these are found at your local pet supply store and
our own MALTEPOO COM
PetStore >>.
Starting
out with a variety. This will help you to determine which type of toy your
puppy prefers. Rotate different toys to help keep puppy interested and
always reward puppy when he/she chews their toys. Make sure you select
distinctive looking toys that are not visually similar to household items
that you don't want chewed. Also, there are commercial anti chew
sprays available on the market that you might try.
Sometimes
dogs just dig for the fun of it, but there are other reasons like
he may want to cool off on a hot day, bury and retrieve bones, escape confinement
or to chase rodents. Chewing and digging or any destructive behavior
could also be a direct response to anxiety.
Digging often occurs when
pets have insufficient stimulation. Providing chew toys and increased
play and exercise may help curtail this behavior. Some methods of
discouraging digging are: changing or covering the surface by placing rocks
or covering with concrete. Remote punishment may also work. Examples
would be while you see your dog digging, turn on a sprinkler, or pull on
an extended leash. With love and patience this problem can be resolved.
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