One of the many challenges as a new dog owner is becoming aware of your dog's behaviors and learning to thwart the bad ones, such as chewing on furniture. Not only does this have the potential to ruin the furniture, it is also indicative that the dog needs more positive stimulation. Dogs require an abundance of attention, and when left alone, they tend to become lonely and bored. Also, many dogs love to engage in tasks. They want to feel needed and useful. When a dog chews the furniture, it is showing signs of boredom, loneliness, or efforts to accomplish something. The dog may not realize at first that chewing the furniture is bad idea. Nevertheless, a dog owner can stop a dog from chewing on the furniture by correcting the dog with positive reinforcement, offering adequate exercise and healthy play and separating the dog from the furniture.
Positive Reinforcement
One of the ways to stop a dog from chewing on the furniture is to demonstrate to the dog that such an action is bad and should not be done. When the dog begins to chew the furniture, reprimand the dog in a firm voice. This will allow the dog to realize the negative effects of the behavior. Then provide the dog with an alternative and offer an appropriate chew toy. Obviously, it is better for the dog to chew the toy than the furniture. Through this practice, the dog will begin to understand that chewing the furniture is not allowed, but chewing the toys is.
Play With the Dog
Dogs require attention. A dog will turn to chewing the furniture when it feels neglected and does not have anything else to do. To discourage such behavior, make sure to play with the dog regularly. Playing with the dog will provide stimulation and therefore make the dog less inclined to chew on the furniture.
Exercise
Dogs need to have regular exercise. When a dog is confined to the house, it may become frustrated, so it then tries to release this energy by chewing on the furniture. Making sure the dog receives the proper amount of exercise is one of the easiest ways to stop the dog from destroying the furniture. Take the dog for a walk or run around in the yard. The exercise will allow the dog to release its energy, and therefore be less likely to chew on the furniture.
Separate Dog From Furniture
Preventive measures such as positive reinforcement, attention and exercise can redirect the dog from chewing the furniture. If the owner is not going to be around for a certain amount of time, however, leave the dog in a room that does not contain the important pieces of furniture. Although the dog should be more aware of the negative aspects of chewing on the furniture, it still works to be as cautious as possible.
Keep in mind, chewing on the furniture is a very common dog behavior. Redirect your dog from boredom and an abundance of unused energy by giving it plenty of attention and exercise, and you'll have a happier dog as well as minimal destruction to your home.
