How to Stop Pug Chewing
Pugs are wonderful companions, but like any other breed, can have annoying habits, so learning how to stop pug chewing will teach you a lot about your dog.
All dogs chew, it’s a part of their nature to use their teeth on you, your furniture and your clothes, but pugs seem to like chewing unusual things like your hair! All this can lead to injury and damage but there are effective measures to minimize this behavior.
How to Stop Pug Chewing – 3 Important Points
There are three main reasons why a pug might chew. You need to address all three if you want this behavior to stop.
- Teething. Puppies love to use their teeth on everything they can find because it is soothing to them and helps with the teething process. You need to make sure your pug has plenty of toys and chew things to satisfy this craving. He must learn that his toys may be chewed, but your possessions may not. As soon as you catch him chewing on something forbidden, give a firm command like “stop” and immediately replace the object with one his own toys.
- Boredom. Pugs are very social animals and they like companionship. If they get bored, they might take to chewing as a way to entertain themselves. Make sure you spend enough time playing with this loveable animal and give him the affection he craves and you could find the chewing becomes less of a problem.
- Attention. Pugs are very clever dogs and can be attention seekers. If you tend to run after your pug when he grabs a shoe, he could interpret this as a good way to get you to take notice of him. Don’t reward negative behavior by getting excited, because this will not teach him how to stop pug chewing. Rather say a firm “No”, and calmly replace the shoe with one of his own toys, then reward him with enthusiasm when he takes it. Try to give him more positive attention by taking him on regular walks and by playing with him.
The Role of Obedience
Pugs are easy dogs to train because they are people dogs and like to please. If your pug is well trained, you will find out how to stop pug chewing is easier. There are a few important considerations to remember when training your pug:
- Consistency. This is probably the most important thing when it comes to training a pug. Decide on what behavior is acceptable from the beginning and stick to it.
- Timing. Don’t reprimand your dog for chewing something unless you can actually catch him in the act, otherwise he will just be bewildered and it will be a waste of time.
- Establish authority. Your pug needs to know who is the boss and that must be you. Dogs that have leadership confusion can act out inappropriately. It is up to you to lay down firm but fair boundaries and apply them.
Pugs are wonderful little dogs and with the correct training, patience and love they can make great pets. Learning how to stop pug chewing is a chance to get to know your dog better in all respects.
