How Do I Stop My Bernedoodle Puppy From Chewing Everything?
If you’ve caught yourself asking, how do I stop my Bernedoodle puppy from chewing everything?, you’re dealing with one of the most common—and sometimes frustrating—puppy behaviors. Chewing is a natural and necessary activity for puppies, especially during teething, but it can quickly become destructive if not properly managed.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand why your Bernedoodle puppy chews so much and share effective strategies to redirect this behavior toward acceptable items.
Key Takeaways
- Chewing is a normal developmental behavior for Bernedoodle puppies, particularly during teething.
- Providing appropriate chew toys and supervision reduces unwanted chewing.
- Consistency in training and redirection teaches your puppy what’s okay to chew.
- Puppy-proofing your home helps protect belongings and keeps your pup safe.
- If chewing persists or is destructive, consult a vet or professional trainer.
Why Do Bernedoodle Puppies Chew Everything?
1. Teething Pain Relief
Bernedoodle puppies typically start teething around 3 weeks old, with the process continuing until about 6 months. Chewing helps soothe sore gums and encourages new teeth to grow.
2. Exploration
Puppies explore the world through their mouths, using chewing to learn about textures and objects.
3. Boredom and Energy Release
Chewing can be a way for your Bernedoodle to relieve excess energy or boredom when not mentally or physically stimulated enough.
4. Attention-Seeking Behavior
Sometimes, puppies chew to get your attention, even if it’s negative.
Effective Strategies to Stop Unwanted Chewing
1. Provide Plenty of Appropriate Chew Toys
Offer durable toys designed for teething puppies, such as rubber toys, nylon bones, or rope toys. Rotate toys regularly to keep your pup interested.
2. Puppy-Proof Your Home
Remove or secure items you don’t want chewed, such as shoes, electrical cords, furniture edges, and children’s toys.
3. Redirect and Reward
Catch your puppy chewing on inappropriate items and gently redirect them to a chew toy. Praise and reward when they choose toys instead.
4. Use Deterrent Sprays
Apply safe, bitter-tasting sprays on furniture or objects to discourage chewing.
5. Increase Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Regular walks, play sessions, and puzzle toys reduce boredom and excess energy, which can curb destructive chewing.
6. Teach Basic Commands
Commands like “leave it” or “no” can be effective when consistently reinforced during chewing incidents.
When to Seek Help
If your Bernedoodle’s chewing seems excessive or compulsive, or if destructive behavior continues despite your efforts, consider consulting a veterinarian or professional dog trainer to rule out underlying issues.
Conclusion
How do I stop my Bernedoodle puppy from chewing everything? Understanding that chewing is natural for puppies and providing plenty of appropriate outlets, combined with consistent training and puppy-proofing, will help you manage this behavior effectively. Patience and positive reinforcement are key to raising a well-behaved, happy Bernedoodle.
For more puppy training tips and expert advice, visit Adopt Elite Puppies.
Frequently Asked Question
Can giving my Bernedoodle puppy too many chew toys encourage more chewing?
No, providing a variety of appropriate chew toys helps satisfy their natural urge to chew and reduces the likelihood of them targeting household items. However, avoid toys that are too hard to prevent dental damage.
