The dog chews on shoes. What to do?

The reasons for the destructive behavior of the dog can be different. The most common of them:

• Boredom;

• Loneliness;

• Fear;

• Anxiety;

• Excess energy;

• Change of teeth;

• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

As you can see, not always the dog gnaws shoes only because of emotional disorders. And at all she will not do this out of revenge or harm. There is a lack of communication or stressful situations. In addition, improperly selected food or a number of stomach diseases can also provoke a dog’s desire to “nibble on something”. This is especially likely if an older dog suddenly starts chewing on shoes.

As for puppies, almost all young dogs are very energetic. If a pet cannot throw out all the accumulated energy on a walk, he will most likely do it at home with all the ensuing consequences.

How to stop a dog from chewing shoes?

It should be noted right away that it is easier to work with puppies than with adult pets. And prevention is the best way to deal with destructive dog behavior.

1. Prevention of unwanted behavior

   During the first month after purchasing a puppy, spend as much time with him as possible. Control his behavior. It is important to buy enough toys appropriate for his age. As soon as you notice that the puppy has become interested in shoes, try to switch his attention to the toy.

   Cynologists recommend provoking a grown pet by offering him a pair of shoes as a toy. As soon as he gets into playing with shoes, stop the process. But it’s important not just to say “No!” or “Fu!”, but offer a legal toy instead. So you do not stop the pet’s game and give him the opportunity to throw out energy.

2. Limit access to shoes

   The easiest method is to limit the dog’s access to shoes. Get in the habit of putting your shoes and shoes in the closet immediately after returning home.

   Another option is to limit the freedom of movement of the pet around the apartment. When no one is at home, the dog can be locked in the room, but not in the bathroom or toilet. So she simply will not have the opportunity to gnaw on shoes.

   Provide your pet with plenty of toys during your absence. For a puppy, it is desirable to select educational toys with a surprise. Then he will definitely not be bored in your absence.

3. Tire the dog

   Walk more with your pet. Oddly enough, it is the energy that has not found an outlet that most often becomes the cause of destructive behavior. Get up early for a walk, arrange all kinds of games for the dog, active exercises, more often give the “Fetch” command. In a word, try to tire the dog.

   Also, feed your dog a solid meal before leaving for work and leave a special chew bone.

4. Negative impact

   If you did not catch the dog for the “crime”, you can not scold it. But, if you notice that the pet encroaches on shoes, feel free to stop this action. And not just “Fu” or “No” – so you will only limit his impulse, but be sure to show that you can gnaw. Instead of shoes or boots, offer his toy: “This is impossible, but this is possible.”

   Another tricky trick is to set up traps. For example, if the dog knows where the shoes are and can open the closet door on its own, try using the surprise effect. As soon as the pet tries to open the closet, use a firecracker or whistle. Dogs are not very fond of such surprises and after several such attempts, they will probably cease to be interested in the closet.

   Use not only negative influence. Remember to praise your pet when he plays with his toys, keep him active and interested.

   In no case do not shout at the dog, and even more so do not beat him. Such punishment teaches nothing. In the process of training animals, it is much more effective to use praise and affection.

December 26 2017

Updated: October 5, 2018