Dear VetBabble,
I have a puppy who is almost 2 months old and she seems to be biting everything. Is this normal for a puppy, and what can I do to help curb this behavior?
Worried Puppy Parent
Understanding Your Puppy’s Chewing Behavior
Dear Worried Puppy Parent,
First of all, congratulations on your new furry family member! Puppies are a delightful addition to our lives, but they often come with a series of challenges, including the urge to chew on everything in sight. It is absolutely normal for a puppy to explore their surroundings using their mouth, and it’s important for pet owners to understand why this is happening and how to manage it. So, don’t worry – you’re not alone in dealing with a mouthy little pup!
Why Do Puppies Chew?
Puppies learn about the world around them by using their mouths. They chew on things to explore textures, scents, and tastes, and it’s a natural part of their development. Chewing also provides relief for teething puppies, whose gums may be sore as their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth emerge. Moreover, it is important to remember that puppies are bundles of energy, and they may chew when they are bored or have excess energy to burn off.
How to Manage Puppy Chewing
Managing your puppy’s chewing behavior is essential to help protect your belongings and ensure that your pet develops healthy habits. There are several ways that you can help redirect your puppy’s chewing to more appropriate items and activities:
1. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
It’s crucial to offer your puppy a wide variety of appropriate chew toys to keep them entertained and redirect their attention away from your prized possessions. For some tips on selecting the best options for your furry friend, feel free to check out our article on What Are The Best Treats For Your Puppy?. And when it comes to aggressive chewers, our article on What are the best dog toys for aggressive chewers? will point you in the right direction.
2. Puppy-Proof Your Home
Removing temptation is essential when managing your puppy’s chewing problem. Be sure to puppy-proof your home by keeping valuable items and potential hazards (like electrical cords) out of reach.
3. Encourage Healthy Habits
When your puppy attempts to chew on something they shouldn’t, promptly offer them an appropriate chew toy as a substitute. Consistency is key, as they will begin to understand which items are acceptable to chew on and which are off-limits.
4. Ensure Plenty of Exercise and Mental Stimulation
As mentioned earlier, puppies may resort to chewing when they’re bored or have excess energy. Making sure your pup gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can significantly reduce their urge to chew. For more ideas on how to keep your pup engaged, have a look at our article on Boredom Busters for Active Dogs.
5. Settle Your Puppy into Their New Home
New surroundings can be overwhelming for a puppy, and having a proper daily routine can provide a sense of security. Help your puppy adjust to her new home and develop trust by following a consistent schedule for feeding, playtime, and rest. To learn more about what to expect during the early days, check out our guide on First Night Home with a New Puppy. What to Expect.
Remember, having a puppy comes with its fair share of challenges, but with patience, consistency, and love, you can help your furry friend develop into a well-behaved and cherished companion. Best of luck, and enjoy the puppy days!
Sincerely,
VetBabble
