I’ve got a 11-month-old Rot/Pit mix named Chomper (fitting name, right? lol). Ever since he was about 4 months old, he’s been chewing up EVERYTHING he can get his paws on—like not just shoes but pillows, pens, utensils, and even paper. It’s wild. I’ve tried buying every tough toy out there, but only a Kong ball and tire have survived. He’s healthy, super active, and eats high-quality food, but this chewing thing is constant. Could it be boredom? Or even something like pica? Anyone else dealt with this?
OMG, I had a similar issue with my Lab! Have you tried mentally stimulating toys? Like a treat-dispensing ball?
Vincent said:
OMG, I had a similar issue with my Lab! Have you tried mentally stimulating toys? Like a treat-dispensing ball?
Yeah, I tried one, but Chomper just tears it apart after a few minutes to get the treats lol.
Vincent said:
OMG, I had a similar issue with my Lab! Have you tried mentally stimulating toys? Like a treat-dispensing ball?
What’s a treat-dispensing ball? Never heard of that one.
Vincent said:
OMG, I had a similar issue with my Lab! Have you tried mentally stimulating toys? Like a treat-dispensing ball?
It’s like a puzzle toy where you put treats or kibble inside, and the dog has to work to get them out. Keeps them busy!
Have you tried training commands like ‘leave it’? That worked wonders for my dog’s chewing habits.
Jane said:
Have you tried training commands like ‘leave it’? That worked wonders for my dog’s chewing habits.
He knows basic commands, but we haven’t focused much on ‘leave it.’ Any tips for teaching it?
Jane said:
Have you tried training commands like ‘leave it’? That worked wonders for my dog’s chewing habits.
Start with something low-value, like an old toy, and trade it for a high-value treat. Use a clicker if you can!
Jane said:
Have you tried training commands like ‘leave it’? That worked wonders for my dog’s chewing habits.
What’s a clicker? Is it necessary for training?
Jane said:
Have you tried training commands like ‘leave it’? That worked wonders for my dog’s chewing habits.
Not necessary but super helpful! It’s a little device that makes a clicking sound to mark good behavior.
Have you tried freezing treats or using ice toys? My dog LOVES flavored ice—it keeps him entertained for hours.
Paw said:
Have you tried freezing treats or using ice toys? My dog LOVES flavored ice—it keeps him entertained for hours.
I do something similar! I make flavored ice balls for one of his toys. He’s obsessed.
Paw said:
Have you tried freezing treats or using ice toys? My dog LOVES flavored ice—it keeps him entertained for hours.
What do you mean by flavored ice balls? Sounds interesting!
Paw said:
Have you tried freezing treats or using ice toys? My dog LOVES flavored ice—it keeps him entertained for hours.
Oh, I just freeze water with a bit of chicken broth or peanut butter in a mold. He loves it!
If nothing else works, you might want to look into a professional trainer or behaviorist. They could have insight into why he’s chewing so much.
WoofWisdom1 said:
If nothing else works, you might want to look into a professional trainer or behaviorist. They could have insight into why he’s chewing so much.
I’ve thought about that. Do you know if they handle cases like this often?
WoofWisdom1 said:
If nothing else works, you might want to look into a professional trainer or behaviorist. They could have insight into why he’s chewing so much.
Yeah, for sure! They can help with excessive chewing and even recommend specific tools or strategies.
I’ve heard that spreading meals throughout the day using puzzle feeders can help reduce destructive behaviors. Might be worth a try?
diane said:
I’ve heard that spreading meals throughout the day using puzzle feeders can help reduce destructive behaviors. Might be worth a try?
Interesting idea! I’ll try breaking up his meals into smaller portions with those toys.