Toyland - Go Ahead Throw the Ball! 

Your Puppy and Chewing, What Should You Do?                               By Jane Johnson

 It is natural for your puppy's to chew on things. They are developing their ability to tear something apart, which is what he would be doing in the wild. With out this ability he would not be able to survive. He is also cutting teeth at the same time. It may be cute at first when your puppy begins to chew on things but, it can also be very dangerous for him. If your dog gets into something poisonous or swallows an object it could lead to high vet bills or even his death.

 Puppies normally chew more than older dogs and will chew on anything. It is much easier to teach your puppy not to chew on things that he is not allowed to chew on at a younger age than to wait until he's older. By then it may be to late. You will need to puppy poof your house just as you would child proof your house. You may need to get down on all fours and look around your house to see if they is anything within reach that your puppy would like to chew on. If so, put these things where he can't get them. You may need to make some adjustments. Put your shoes inside your closet instead of under the edge of your bed. Put gates up where you don't want him to go such as your child's room where toys are kept on the floor or at low levels. Close your closet door in stead of keeping it open for the convenience. The less the items there are for him to chew on the less the chance for him to develop the desire to chew on them.

 Seeing he will continue to have the desire to chew then he will need proper toys to chew on. This may be a toy fit for his age, a rawhide or one of the many dog bones that are available. Some like the soft toys and some like the tough toys. Give your dog a variety and encourage him to play with all of them.

 If you catch your dog chewing on something he isn't supposed to you need to let them know that what he are doing is wrong. You can tell your dog this by speaking in a sharp tone saying, No. Take the item away and give him one of his chew toys.

 Remember to be persistent, dogs are not stupid, if he knows he can get away with something he will keep doing it. You should also refrain from yelling at your dog or hitting him at all times, no matter how frustrated you get. When you yell at or hit a dog it only prolongs the dogs learning and IT'S ABUSE. Never tempt him by putting the items near him. That is telling him it is OK to chew the item. Even if he doesn't in front of you he may when your not around.

 Remember to be persistent. Do not give up or give in, if you do your dog will never learn. Remember to be patient, your dog will not stop chewing over night, it may take weeks or even months. 

Below you will find a variety of toys that are just right for a growing pup and your older dogs too.

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