It’s pretty common knowledge that dogs love to chew on things. This could include chewing on sticks, bones, toys or even the forbidden slipper.
But the question is: why do dogs like to chew on their toys so much?
Well, you wouldn’t be the first person to wonder this same thing, and the answer is – it’s just in their nature.
That’s right, it’s not that surprising that dog’s follow their natural instincts. So, if you’re pondering the age-old question of “why won’t my dog stop chewing on stuff?” then keep scrolling to learn more.
By Allison Salonko.
Allison is a Veterinary Technician in the state of Indiana. She graduated from International Business College and Vet Tech Institute of Indianapolis with a degree in Animal Science and Technology in 2011.
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Excessive Chewing: Why Does My Dog Do It?
Most dogs will seek out their own toys to chew on, and they will do so for many different reasons.
It’s not always that your companion just develops a hankering for chewing on something, but more like they are doing it for the following reasons:
- Boredom
- Comfort
- Anxiety
- Teething
- Frustration
- Hungry
Your Dog Is Bored
Boredom can be a big issue, especially for dogs, as they can develop some bad habits when they don’t have enough appropriate activities to keep them occupied.
Exercise and mental stimulation will keep your dog from going full ham on their toys until they are only a scrap of fabric and a broken down squeaker.
If your dog is easily bored, then look into finding them interactive toys that can dispense treats or even super stimulating puzzle toys and snuffle mats.
Hiding food around the house can also keep them from destroying their chew toys too quickly.
Your Dog Is Anxious
Anxiety is a common mental health concern with people and animals around the world.
When a dog is feeling anxious, resorting to finding a chew toy or other object to distract themselves is not completely unusual.
Dogs that display anxious behaviors such as excessive chewing can eventually lead to more severe problems such as separation anxiety.
Your Dog Is Frustrated
Frustration can be a common reason why dogs will resort to shredding a chew toy.
Anger also goes hand in hand with that emotion as a dog that has become upset and frustrated with something can be seen taking out that aggression on one of their toys or even their owners belongings.
Your Dog Is Seeking Comfort
This can go along with your dog’s feelings of frustration or anxiety.
When a dog is feeling one or several of these emotions, it’s not unusual to find them seeking out comfort in the form of chewing on one of their favorite toys.
Sometimes, dogs that are looking for comfort will even bring their toys to their owners and chew on them while laying on their feet or lap.
Many owners may find the slobbery chew toy a little gross though.
Your Dog Is A Puppy
Just like babies, puppies go through a teething phase as well.
When those little deciduous teeth are loosening and their adults are pushing through, their gums are sore and one of the few things that makes that feel better is pressure.
So, why not chew on a soft toy made of fabric?
Puppies are better off taking out their teething desires on their own toys instead of munching on the legs of your dining room or coffee table.
Sometimes if you take a fabric toy and stick it in the freezer, it can feel more soothing on their sore gums and teeth.
Your Dog Is Hungry
A hungry dog may think that chewing one of their toys satiates that feeling of emptiness.
In these cases, it can be common for these dogs to ingest part of their toy as well.
It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your dog’s chewing habits and ensure that he isn’t eating anything that could potentially cause stomach upset or even require surgery for removal.
Why Does My Dog Chew On Their Toys So Much?
There are many reasons why your dog may be infatuated with chewing on their toys – or sticks, but the reality is, as long as they’re not hurting themselves or someone else, then it should be totally fine!
Remember to pick up any pieces that they could potentially ingest or injure themselves on.
And try not to worry too much if your dog enjoys spending time chewing on a toy.
Photo by Rafael.