Have you ever walked into a room to find your favorite shoes chewed to smithereens? Or maybe your once-pristine sofa now looks like it’s been through a shredder? If so, you probably ask yourself, “Why does my German Shepherd chew everything?”
Many proud owners of these intelligent, energetic dogs have faced the same issue. And while it might seem like your furry friend has a personal vendetta against your belongings, there’s usually a different reason behind their chewing spree.
In this blog post, we will delve into the world of German Shepherds and their chewing habits. We’ll explore why they’re inclined to turn your house into their chew toy, its impact on their health and your home, and, most importantly, how to deal with it.
5 Common Reasons Why German Shepherds Chew
To begin, it’s helpful to understand why German Shepherds chew in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons:
① Puppy Teething
German Shepherd puppies go through a teething phase, which is one of the key reasons why your little furball might be gnawing on everything in sight.
Just imagine what it feels like when your gums are sore and new teeth push their way out. Ouch, right? Well, that’s exactly what your German Shepherd puppy is going through. They start teething around three weeks old when their first set of baby teeth appear.
Then, between 12 to 30 weeks of age, these baby teeth begin to fall out, making way for their permanent adult teeth. This whole process can be quite uncomfortable for them, hence the chewing.
When your pup chews, it helps to relieve the discomfort of teething. The pressure from chewing soothes their aching gums and helps those new teeth to break through. It’s kind of like how babies find relief by gnawing on teething rings.
The only problem is puppies don’t usually stick to chewing toys. They’ll chew on anything they can get their little jaws around – shoes, furniture, your favorite book, you name it!
② Boredom
German Shepherds are an intelligent and active breed. They were originally bred for herding sheep (hence the name), meaning they’re used to having a job and being physically active for most of the day. They can easily become bored and restless when they don’t get enough mental and physical stimulation. And guess what a bored German Shepherd does? You got it – they chew!
Think about it this way – if you were left alone at home all day with nothing to do, wouldn’t you start looking for ways to entertain yourself? That’s exactly what’s happening with your fur buddy. Chewing is a natural activity for dogs, and it can be quite entertaining and soothing for them.
So, if they’re left alone for long periods without anything to do or play with, they might start seeing your furniture as a fun and exciting chew toy.
③ Anxiety
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and strong bond with their owners. They love being around their human family and can become stressed when left alone for extended periods. This is often referred to as separation anxiety. It’s like how a child might feel anxious when their parents leave them at school for the first time. Your German Shepherd may feel the same way when you leave them alone at home.
When they’re feeling anxious, they might start looking for ways to cope, and often, this coping mechanism involves chewing. It’s a bit like how some people bite their nails when nervous. Chewing can relieve dogs’ stress, helping them calm down and distract themselves from their anxiety.
It’s also worth noting that stressful situations like moving to a new home, introducing a new pet or family member, or changing routine can also trigger anxiety and lead to increased chewing.
④ Diet
Dogs need a balanced diet to stay healthy. This is particularly important for active breeds like German Shepherds with high energy needs. However, if their diet lacks certain nutrients, they may start exhibiting some unusual behaviors – and yes, this includes chewing.
Think about it. Have you ever craved a particular food when you’re not feeling well or deficient in a certain nutrient? Dogs can have similar responses. If they’re not getting the nutrients they need from their food, they might start seeking them elsewhere. This could mean chewing on things like grass, dirt, or furniture!
It’s also worth noting that a poor diet can lead to health issues such as gastrointestinal problems, which can cause discomfort and lead to increased chewing as a way to cope with the discomfort.
If your German Shepherd is chewing excessively, it might be worth looking at their diet. Are they getting all the nutrients they need? Are they eating high-quality dog food suitable for their age, size, and activity level? If you’re unsure, it could be a good idea to consult a vet or pet nutritionist.
⑤ Health issues
Dogs can’t tell us when they’re feeling unwell. Instead, they show us through changes in their behavior. And one such behavior could be excessive chewing. If your German Shepherd is suddenly chewing more than usual, it might be their way of telling you that something’s not right.
For instance, dental problems like gum disease or tooth decay can cause discomfort in your dog’s mouth, leading them to chew as a way to relieve the pain. Similarly, gastrointestinal issues can cause nausea or discomfort, increasing chewing.
Parasites are another health issue that can lead to excessive chewing. If your German Shepherd has fleas or ticks, they might chew and bite at their skin in an attempt to relieve the itchiness.
Thus, if you’ve tried addressing other possible causes of destructive chewing, like boredom, anxiety, or diet, and nothing seems to be working, it might be time to schedule a visit to the vet. They can thoroughly examine to rule out any potential health issues causing your dog’s chewing behavior.
The Dangers of Excessive Chewing
While it might seem like a harmless (albeit annoying) habit, excessive chewing can pose serious risks to your furry friend and your wallet.
Firstly, let’s consider the potential dangers for your dog. When your German Shepherd chews on inappropriate items like shoes, furniture, or even small toys, there’s a risk they could ingest harmful objects. This could lead to choking or internal blockages, which can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Not to mention, certain items may contain toxic materials that could harm your dog if ingested.
Then there’s the risk of dental damage. Chewing on hard objects like bones or rocks can cause chipped or broken teeth, which can be painful and may require veterinary treatment.
Now, let’s turn our attention to your belongings. We all know that replacing chewed-up shoes, furniture, or other household items can be costly. But did you know that excessive chewing can also lead to more serious property damage? Imagine coming home to find your German Shepherd has chewed through a wall or an electrical cord!
The financial cost of repairing or replacing damaged items can quickly add up, putting a strain on your budget. And let’s face it; nobody likes coming home to a living room that looks like a war zone!
Therefore, as you can see, it’s important to address your German Shepherd’s chewing habits sooner rather than later.
How to Discourage Your German Shepherd from Chewing Everything
I know that being greeted by a room full of chewed-up belongings is far from ideal. But the good news is that there are ways to discourage your German Shepherd from chewing. Here are a few tips to get you started:
🐕 Dog-Proof Your Home
Dog-proofing basically involves making your home a safe and chew-resistant environment for your German Shepherd. It’s like setting up a playground where they can enjoy themselves without getting into trouble (or destroying your favorite pair of shoes).
Start by removing any items you don’t want to be chewed. This might mean stowing away shoes, keeping remote controls out of reach, or even moving certain pieces of furniture if necessary. Remember, if it’s within their reach, your German Shepherd will likely consider it a potential chew toy.
Next, secure any potential hazards. This includes things like electrical cords, toxic plants, or small objects that could be swallowed. It’s all about minimizing the risks and creating a safe space for your pup to play and explore.
Remember, dog-proofing is all about prevention. As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” By dog-proofing your home, you can save yourself a lot of stress (and money) in the long run.
🐕 Providing Appropriate Chew Toys
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs. It helps them relieve stress, keep their jaws strong, and their teeth clean. So, instead of trying to stop your German Shepherd from chewing altogether, why not redirect this behavior towards something more appropriate – like chew toys?
There’s a wide variety of dog toys available in pet stores or online. From rubber toys and rope toys to flavored bones, a toy will likely capture your German Shepherd’s interest. The key is to find safe and durable toys to withstand your dog’s powerful jaws.
When choosing chew toys, ensure they’re made from non-toxic materials and large enough to prevent choking. Also, regularly checking the toys for signs of wear and tear is important. If a toy starts to break apart, it’s time to replace it to avoid any risk of your dog swallowing small pieces.
Having a selection of chew toys can also help keep your dog entertained and prevent boredom. You might even consider using treat-dispensing toys, which provide a fun chewing experience and stimulate your dog’s mind as they work to get the treat out.
🐕 Train Your GSD to Obey Anti-Chew Commands
Training your German Shepherd dog might seem daunting, especially if you’re new to it. But don’t worry; these dogs are known for their intelligence and eagerness to learn. With some patience and consistency, you’ll be surprised at how quickly they can pick up new commands.
Start by teaching basic commands like “leave it” or “drop it.” These commands can be incredibly useful in preventing your dog from chewing on inappropriate items. For instance, if you catch your German Shepherd eyeing your shoe or starting to chew on the furniture, a firm “leave it” can redirect their attention and discourage the behavior.
Remember, it’s important to reward your dog for obeying these commands. This could be with a small treat, a pat on the head, or a few words of praise. The goal is to help your dog associate obeying the command with positive reinforcement, making them more likely to repeat the good behavior in the future.
Of course, dog training isn’t an overnight solution. It takes time and consistent practice. But the effort is definitely worth it.
🐕 Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Regular walks, runs, or games of fetch can help burn off some of that energy and curb the urge to chew.
But don’t forget about mental stimulation! Just like us, dogs need challenges to keep their minds sharp. Puzzle toys, obedience training, or even hide-and-seek games can provide that much-needed mental workout. Plus, they’re a great way to bond with your furry friend!
🐕 Diet Adjustments
Sometimes, dogs may chew out of boredom or simply because they’re hungry. If your German Shepherd isn’t getting enough nutrients from their meals, they might be more likely to snack on inappropriate items. To avoid this, make sure you’re feeding them the right diet for their age and lifestyle.
You should also consider increasing meal portions if your pup’s feeling particularly active or energetic. Or, if you’re concerned about their weight, there are plenty of low-calorie treats available that can help satisfy hunger pangs without going overboard on calories.
🐕 Seeking Professional Help
If your pup’s chewing is getting out of hand, it might be time to seek professional help. A dog behaviorist can assess the underlying cause of your German Shepherd’s chewing and provide personalized advice on how to curb the destructive behavior.
In some cases, they may even recommend medication or other treatments if needed. With expert advice and patience, you and your pup can find the right solution to stop their excessive chewing habits – a bit sooner rather than later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an allergic reaction of my German Shepherd to a certain food increase their chewing behavior?
A: Oh, absolutely! An allergic reaction can cause discomfort and itchiness in your dog’s mouth, leading them to chew to alleviate that discomfort. It’s important to address any potential allergies with your veterinarian to ensure your pup gets the proper nutrition and care they need to feel their best and ease that chewing behavior.
Q: When should I seek emergency care for my German Shepherd?
A: If your pup is showing signs of toxic poisoning, such as drooling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing, you should seek emergency care right away. Additionally, if you notice any changes in behavior or believe they may have swallowed a foreign object that could be causing an obstruction, contact a professional to ensure your pet’s safety.
Q: Can I use a deterrent to discourage unwanted chewing?
A: Yes, deterrent sprays can help discourage your pup from chewing on inappropriate items. However, it’s important to remember that these products can be dangerous if ingested and should only be used in extreme circumstances. Additionally, these products may not work as effectively if the chewing stems from a lack of exercise or mental stimulation. In those cases, it’s best to address the underlying cause rather than rely on deterrents.
Q: Do I need to take my pup to a professional trainer?
A: It depends on the cause of their chewing behavior. If your pup is experiencing separation anxiety or an underlying health issue, it may be best to consult a professional trainer or behavior specialist. These experts can provide personalized advice on tackling the issue, helping you and your pup work toward a solution.
Q: Does chewing stop when my German Shepherd gets older?
A: While every dog is different, it’s not uncommon for chewing to decrease with age. This is because older dogs have less energy and are less likely to engage in destructive chewing behaviors. However, it’s important to remember that regardless of age, all dogs need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay physically and mentally fit.
Final Thoughts
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, particularly so for breeds like German Shepherds, who were historically bred for careers such as herding or guarding. While it may be frustrating to have your shoes or sofa gnawed on, it’s important to understand that your dog is not doing this to be malicious – they simply have an innate desire to chew and need an appropriate outlet for this behavior. However, you can help your furry friend overcome this behavior with some patience and understanding.