Chewing is a natural behaviour of dogs.
They do it because they are eating, teething, or just bored. You cannot stop dogs from chewing things. Instead, you can only redirect their attention to something else. If they like chewing your carpet, couches, and slippers, you should address this behaviour before anything gets ruined.
Why Stop Puppy Chewing
It may be natural for your Yorkshire Terrier puppy to chew things. Of course, he needs to eat his meals and teeth on the bones, but never to chew on rags and other household objects. When disciplining, please do not yell at or physically hurt him since this would only trigger aggression in your dog.
It will only complicate things around. Instead, he presents the things he can freely chew on, alternatives to rags, clothes, slippers, etc.
How To Stop a Yorkie Puppy From Chewing
Here are some essential training tips to help you stop your Yorkshire Terrier puppy from chewing frequently.
Behaviour Adjustment – Give your puppy alternative things to chew rather than trying to stop him from chewing. When you see him chewing your slippers, toss an object he’s equally excited about so he can redirect his action.
After he chews on this object, be happy and commend him. This way, he will associate your reaction to chewing his favourite object rather than to chewing his slippers. Do this until he no longer touches your slippers.
Keep your puppy busy – Sometimes, your puppy chews on many things when bored. Thus, take him for a walk or play with him to keep him active. When you leave him at home, ensure you provide him with toys to play with so he will not get bored.
Crate training – If you are not always at home, providing your puppy with a crate will reduce his chewing behaviour. A crate is a home for a dog. This gives him little access to your house. A well-trained dog usually stays in its crate when its master leaves.
Aversion sprays – If your Yorkshire Terrier likes to chew on specific objects such as couches, rags, and carpets, spraying these spots with bitter apples or peppers will keep him away. Eventually, he will associate these objects with bad smells and tastes.
Dogs may chew almost anything around the house, but remember never to chew on your fingers or toes. This behaviour is not tolerable at all times and can result in a much bigger problem later on. Thus, as soon as you notice it in your puppy, learn to discipline him or get professional help.
Being Consistent
Like in the family, consistency is essential in all kinds of training. If you don’t want your Yorkshire Terrier chewing your shirt or socks, do not leave your clothes on the floor. Keep them away from him so he won’t have any chance to look at them.
Also, do not give your puppy a toy you want to take back later. It will only confuse him more. As such, you, as an owner, must also abide by the rules you set for the dog. And make sure everyone else in the house does, too.
