A considerable number of dog proprietors may have observed their canine companion “sucking” or “chewing” on their blanket. Although this is not an exceptionally rare canine behavior, it is undoubtedly one of the more peculiar ones you may have observed. So, how to stop a dog from chewing blankets?
Like numerous abnormal behaviors observed in canines, blanket chewing is frequently more prevalent in specific varieties. Certain Terrier breeds, such as Dobermans, Border Collies, Daschunds, and Spaniels, are more prone to gnawing their bedding. It does not mean that other species will not demonstrate the ability to chew on blankets.
Understand Your Dog
Similar to infants and adolescents, puppies investigate their environment through the act of ingesting objects. Additionally, similar to infants, they experience teething for approximately six months, a process that typically induces discomfort. Teething is not only facilitated by chewing but also soothes irritated gums.
Adult canines may resort to destructive chewing for a variety of motives, such as a method of managing boredom and tension. Before you can halt the behavior, you must ascertain the cause of your dog’s chewing; remember that this is not an act of malice. Potential causes of destructive biting encompass:
- They were not taught what was and was not permissible to chew as puppies.
- They lack access to appropriate and secure chew toys.
- They are idle.
- They are afflicted with separation anxiety.
- Fear motivates their conduct, and gnawing serves as a coping mechanism.
- It simply feels great to chew.
A consultation with a behavior specialist may be necessary if you suspect that your dog’s excessive gnawing is the result of severe anxiety that affects both separation anxiety and fear-related behaviors.
Rule Out Problems That Can Cause Destructive Chewing
1. Separation Anxiety
When left alone, dogs that gnaw to alleviate the stress of separation anxiety typically do so exclusively or at the height of their chewing intensity.
In addition, they exhibit additional symptoms of separation anxiety, including whimpering, barking, pacing, restlessness, and defecation and urination. For further information on separation anxiety and its treatment, please refer to our article titled “Separation Anxiety.”
2. Fabric Sucking
Certain canines gnaw, nibble, and chew on fabrics. Certain authorities posit that this conduct may be attributed to premature weaning (before seven or eight weeks of age). It is plausible that a dog has developed a compulsive tendency toward fabric-sucking. If the behavior persists for extended durations and becomes challenging to interrupt, it may impede its cessation.
3. Hunger
To discover additional sources of nutrition, a canine on a calorie-restricted diet may engage in destructive behavior such as chewing. Typically, canines direct this gnawing toward food-related or food-odorant objects.
How To Stop A Dog From Chewing Blankets?
The following suggestions may assist in discouraging your dog from gnawing through your bedding. If you have any doubts about the nature of the issue, consult your veterinarian to ensure everything is in order, particularly if the gnawing progresses into eating.
1. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise
Boredom makes numerous canines more susceptible to destructive behaviors, such as gnawing. Physical activity benefits! Although Leo was already engaging in a substantial amount of physical activity, this is an essential initial step for anyone encountering this issue.
2. Give Them Their Blanket.
Canine chewing is an entirely typical behavior; therefore, training against this trait can be difficult. One possibility is to give the dog a blanket that is theirs and suitable for chewing, provided it is not intended to consume it. The blanket will undoubtedly become a chaotic tangle of shreds, but that is their mess.
3. Just A Phase
While teething and blanket gnawing are adolescent phases for some canines, for others, they merely develop into a comforting habit. Soft objects or stuffed animals may be effective alternatives when your puppy is young and teething.
4. Kongs
They are productive, even if it is only for a short respite to chew on a blanket. There is no more excellent amusement for canines than a plush kong.
“Any toy that has grown to the point of posing a choking hazard or causing intestinal obstruction should be removed,” advises Teller. “If your dog ingests large pieces of the toy after chewing on them, it should also be removed.”
Teach What To Chew
- Assume accountability for the possessions you own. Do not provide it for your dog to consume if you do not want it in your mouth. Distinguish apparel, footwear, books, trash, eyeglasses, and remote controls from your dog’s reach. The simplest method to prevent errors is to block off areas with enticing items or place trash in a cabinet.
- Provide your dog with toys that are unmistakably distinct from commonplace items. Avoid causing them confusion by providing shoes and stockings as playthings and expecting them to differentiate between your boots and theirs.
- Until your dog is consistently gnawing on appropriate objects, maintain close supervision. Maintain their presence within your residence on a leash to prevent them from escaping unnoticed or restrict their access to specific areas. Select a dog-proof “safe place” and provide clean water and “safe” diversions. You are also permitted to confine your crate-trained dog to it for brief intervals. Crates should be secure havens for your dog and should never be used as punishment. Additionally, baby gates and exercise pens are valuable instruments.
- Try freezing a rubber toy for your teething puppy; the chilly rubber will help to soothe their gums. Supervise your puppy to prevent them from biting and ingesting any objects.
- Substances that are repulsive to your dog. A flavor deterrent can be applied to furniture and other objects to render them disagreeable. Caution is advised when first administering one of these deterrents to your companion. Certain canines will continue to devour a thing despite its coating of a taste deterrent. Additionally, remember that some of these deterrents require reapplication to retain their efficacy.
- Avoid pursuing your dog if it steals an object and flees. By following your dog, you merely provide you with what these desire. Being followed by a human is enjoyable. Invite them to you instead by presenting them with a treat.
Appropriate chew toys, deterrent perfumes, and mental and physical stimulation are all viable options to discourage a canine from gnawing on blankets. To break the habit, providing positive reinforcement for appropriate chewing behavior and addressing underlying issues such as anxiety is beneficial. Success requires consistency, perseverance, and an awareness of the dog’s requirements.
Thank you for reading…..