Why Do Dogs Chew On Beds
Answers To Why Dogs Chew on Their Beds!
Dog Sleeping On His Chewed Bed
Introduction
Why dogs chew on their beds is an age old problem that pet owners have to deal with. Dogs are playful and curious and chewing is just their natural instinct. But they do exhibit behaviors that can leave their owners puzzled. Why do dogs chew on their beds will provide some answers to this age old problem dog owners experience. One of the most common behavior observed among dogs is chewing on their beds. While it may seem destructive or unnecessary, there are several reasons why dogs engage in this behavior. Dogs may not only chew on their beds, but also on other things in the house. In this article, we will explore the possible causes behind this behavior, discuss the potential risks associated with it, and provide helpful tips on how to address and redirect this behavior in a positive manner.
Possible Causes of This Behavior
We will now address some of the possible causes why your dog likes to chew on his bed and other things around the house. Below are some of the most common causes.
Dog’s Natural Instinct
Dogs have an innate need to chew, and their beds are one of the readily available items for them to exercise this behavior. Chewing is a natural instinct in the wild as it would help keep their teeth clean and ready for anything. Chewing also helped to alleviate teething discomfort. However, the down side is if your dog is bored they will chew on almost anything which includes, shoes, clothes, pillows, rugs, and other household items that he can chew on. You will need to control this natural behavior. Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, rooted in their evolutionary instincts. Puppies, in particular, chew to alleviate teething discomfort. As they grow, their teeth and jaws develop, and they instinctively explore objects, including their beds, through chewing. By chewing, dogs experience relief from teething pain and exercise their jaw muscles. It is important for owners to recognize that chewing during the teething phase is a normal part of a dog’s development. Chewing on their beds can also help dogs clean their teeth by removing plaque and tartar buildup.
Teething
Puppies chew on their beds or anything else during the teething phase. This helps to alleviate the discomfort and helps their new teeth break through. When a puppy is between 12 to 16 weeks old, their adult teeth begin to come in. This process will take until they are 6 months old, at which time all their adult teeth have come in. During the teething period, provide your puppy with chewable toys to help alleviate the pain. Otherwise, you will find lots of destroyed things lying around the house.
Boredom
We briefly mentioned this in the first reason above. We will expand on this here. Dogs may resort to chewing their beds or anything else out of boredom. The reason is they may lack mental stimulation or physical exercise. Dogs need to be stimulated not only physically but also mentally too. This can be accomplished through training sessions, play times, petting and walking. Dogs can get bored especially when their owners are away. It is vital to provide for them some toys that can stimulate their minds and help to keep them occupied. If dogs are left unsupervised for long periods, they may resort to chewing on their beds due to boredom or frustration.
Anxiety or Stress
Dogs may chew on their beds as a coping mechanism when they feel anxious, stressed or uncertain. This can also occur when they are affected by a change in routine or a lack of exercise. For many dogs, being around a stressed family member will be enough to affect them, as dogs can sense when things aren’t quite right. If you notice your dog yawing, pacing back and forth, panting, ears pinned back, and licking their lips, is a sign that they are stressed. If this continues it can lead to digestive trouble, cardiac disease, and a suppressed immune response. Any stressful event can cause an increase in cortisol in your dog, which weakens the immune system and can cause or contribute to significant health issues, both short-term and long-term. If you should notice your dog being stressed for too long, contact your vet.
Separation Anxiety
When dogs are left alone they just might chew on their bed as a way to soothe themselves. In this condition, dogs will chew on almost anything they can get a hold of. This condition is triggered when dogs become upset because of the separation from their owners or people they are attached to. They can display howling, barking, whining, excessive excitement when you return, and chewing and destroying furniture near exits, doors and windows. If you own Labrador Retrievers, Chihuahuas, German Shepherds, or Cocker Spaniels, these dog breeds have a higher risk of separation anxiety than other dog breeds. If your dog should show signs of this condition, it is time to begin to cure him from this behavior. It will take time and patience on your part. You can seek help from your vet.
Lack of Appropriate Chew Toys
Dog Chewing His Toy
Dogs just don’t chew on things without a reason. Remember, they cannot talk to you. They can only get your attention. If your dog does not have access to suitable chew toys, they will turn to their bed and other things around the house as an alternative. Be sure to have proper chewable toys for your dog. Interchange them periodically for a variety. Chew toys are toys designed to be chewed on by animals for stimulation and boredom relief. Gnawing on a chew toy can be soothing to an animal, as well as providing mental stimulation. If you have an aggressive chewing dog, be sure to get toys that will stand up to his chewing. By providing your dog some toys, they will save your hands, shoes, and furniture.
Attention Seeking Behavior
Dogs like to seek their owner’s attention, and over time they learn that chewing on their bed gains your attention, even if it’s negative attention. Or, they might chew on other things around the house. The reason why they seek your attention is they are bored. Or, they might not be getting enough exercise or mental stimulation. Our four-legged family members not only crave but also need human interaction, especially with their owner’s attention, affection, and approval, to remain mentally healthy and happy. Unfortunately, many dog owners don’t realize how important that social aspect is for a dog and often neglect it. Dogs that are under stimulated may engage in destructive behaviors as a means to alleviate their pent-up energy or seek attention from their owners.
Hunger or Nutritional Deficiency
If your dog should lack sufficient nutrition or they lack enough food for their daily needs, you may see your older dog chew on his bed or other things around the house. This can be true if your dog should be on a calorie-restricted diet. Chewing that is due to hunger is typically directed toward objects related to food or that smell like food such as plastic bowls.
Medical Issues or Dental Problems
In some cases, dogs chewing on their beds could be a symptom of underlying medical issues or dental problems. Dogs may chew to alleviate pain or discomfort caused by dental diseases, such as gum inflammation or tooth decay. It is essential to regularly monitor your dog’s oral health and consult with a veterinarian if you should suspect any dental problems. By addressing potential medical issues, you can help curb the chewing behavior associated with pain or discomfort. He may also suffer from a medical issues not related to oral hygiene. If this is the case, consult with your veterinarian as some of these conditions can be life threatening.
Addressing and Redirecting the Chewing Behavior
To address the issue of dogs chewing on their beds, owners can employ several strategies:
- Provide appropriate chew toys for them to play with. As a pet owner, you need to offer a variety of safe and durable chew toys that are specifically designed for dogs. These toys are designed to help redirect the chewing behavior onto good items. By providing these toys you help relieve his boredom, relieve pain for incoming teeth, saves your furniture, promotes oral health, lowers stress and provides a safe alternative to bones.
- Increase mental and physical stimulation. You need to engage your dog in regular exercise routines, walking your dog, and interactive playing sessions. By providing your dog with puzzle or treat-dispensing toys they will help to keep your pet mentally stimulated and engaged.
- Training and Positive Reinforcement. Train your dog to understand basic commands such as “sit”, “stay”, “come”, “leave it” or “drop it.” Reward them with praise, treats, or play when they exhibit appropriate chewing behavior. Not only are they getting exercise but also stimulating their minds for wanting to make you happy. When you are planning his training sessions, it is recommended that you do this at the same time of the day. Your dog will look forward to his time with you. Always when doing a training session, always end on a positive note. Do not get mad or hit your dog if they fail to obey the command the first couple of times. They are trying to learn and will learn quickly when they are rewarded with their favorite treat. Be sure to have plenty on hand during these sessions.
- Create a dog-friendly environment. To do this be sure your dog has a comfortable and secure space out of the way of heavy traffic that he can call his own. Have a bed and appropriate toys for him to play with and engage in. This will help alleviate any stress or anxiety he might be exhibiting and his chewing behavior.
- Consult with your veterinarian if any of these chewing behaviors persist. They can recommend any corrective actions you can take.
Conclusion
By understanding why dogs chew on their beds is the first step in addressing and redirecting this behavior. Whether it stems from natural instincts, boredom, anxiety, or medical issues, or anything else, it is crucial to provide appropriate outlets and solutions. By implementing the strategies mentioned above and taking into account your dog’s specific needs, will help you redirect their chewing behavior onto more suitable objects. By ensuring their overall well-being and promoting a harmonious relationship between you and your furry friend, will bring much happiness to everyone in your family. Also, less destruction of shoes, beds, pillows and furniture.
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