10/26/2023
Did you know puppies have to be taught to chew their own toys rather than your stuff? There are a few things you can do to help them learn.
1. Purchase durable hollow chew toys, such as classic Kongs, and stuff them with your puppy's kibble.
Kongs can be stuffed with dry kibble then the hole covered halfway with a larger treat, so that kibble can only come out a couple of pieces at a time.
Kongs can also be stuffed and frozen, giving more of a challenge and helping ease sore gums during teething.
To stuff, place pup's kibble in a bowl, cover with water and let it sit out for several hours or overnight. When the it looks like puffy marshmallows, mix it up. A bit of liver paste or peanut butter can also be add (make sure peanut butter does NOT contain xylitol). Place a straw through the Kong's holes and loosely stuff the mush into the Kong around the straw. Place into the freezer and freeze overnight. When you are ready to give to pup, simply grab from the freezer and remove the straw (the straw creates a hole that prevents suction). This treat lasts most dogs an hour - long enough to wear most puppies out. My recommendation is to purchase multiple Kongs and stuff several at a time, then you will have a stash to grab from throughout the week.
2. Give pup stuffed Kongs during crate training. This helps pup learn to chew their own toys when bored, prevents access to your stuff, and doubles as a bark deterrent and separation anxiety preventative.
3. Teach the Leave It command.
4. Supervise pup when not crated, using your Leave It command as needed, and redirect to their own toys if they begin to chew your things.
5. When you can't supervise, have pup rest in a crate, play in an exercise pen or dog proof room, or tether them to yourself with a hands free leash to keep them close, and prevent bad habits from forming. Limiting freedom when you can't supervise also prevents a host of other dangers, bad habits, and potty accidents.
Best of luck with your puppies!
