Quick Answer: Dogs chew for four main reasons: teething (puppies aged 3-7 months), boredom (insufficient enrichment), anxiety (chewing is self-soothing), and lack of appropriate chew outlets (dogs need to chew — if you don't provide something, they choose for themselves). Identifying which applies to your dog determines the solution.
Teething (Puppies 3-7 Months)
Puppy teeth are being replaced by adult teeth. Gums are sore and itchy. Chewing provides physical relief — the pressure against sore gums feels good. Solution: provide appropriate chew toys constantly. A frozen lick mat soothes inflamed gums. Natural chews and rubber toys satisfy the urge safely.
Boredom
An under-stimulated dog fills time with the most interesting available activity — which is usually chewing your belongings. Solution: snuffle mat meals, frozen lick mats, training sessions, and appropriate chew toys before you need your dog calm.
Anxiety
Chewing releases endorphins and is a genuine self-soothing behavior. An anxious dog who chews is medicating their own stress. Solution: address the underlying anxiety plus provide the Comfort Duck or other appropriate chew outlet to redirect the behavior safely.
Insufficient Outlets
All dogs need to chew. It's instinctive. If you don't provide something appropriate, they find something. Solution: always have a rotating selection of appropriate chew toys available. Never leave a dog without a chew option during alone time.
Recommended Products
Comfort Duck for anxious chewers. Carrot Rope Toy for natural chewing. See all Toys & Play.
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