Anybody have any suggestions on getting a Basenji to stop chewing everthing it can lay its teeth on?

Question

She has lots of chew toys. But if it is on the floor or a coffee table she considers it fair game: scizzors, shoes, game controls, vacuum cleaner, disposable razors, etc.

Answer 1

Basenjis are known for chewing when they don't get enough exercise or stimulation. Since you own one, I'm sure you are aware of their VERY demanding exercise needs. The saying goes "a good Basenji is a tired Basenji". Try more exercise, more games, anything to tire her out.

And more simply, keep everything out of her reach.

Answer 2

Puppy Training Tips: Chewing
It is in a puppy's nature to chew things. The problem lies when your pup chooses the wrong things to chew, like your tables legs, your shoes, books or anything they can litterally get their mouth on. Always have a generous supply of good, strong chew toys for your pup. Two or three toys is not enough. You need a good 10 or so little, medium and big toys to save your stuff. Don't give all the toys to your pup at the same time. Save a few interesting toys for times that you need to distract your pups attention from chewing something that they shouldn't. Even with a large choice of toys, your pup will sometimes find it more satisfying to chew your new pair of running shoes instead. In the case of finding your pup chewing something they shouldn't, tell your pup "NO" or "BAD DOG" in a deep, stern voice. Litely tap your dogs nose with one finger as you take the object out of their mouth. The most comman mistake is then leaving your dog alone and going about your business. Your dog will then go and find something else to entertain them and it will probably be another thing they should not have. When you take something away from your pup that they should not be chewing on you have to show them what is 'ok' to chew on. Replace that shoe, table or book with a bone, squeaky toy or stuffed animal. Pat your dog and tell them 'yes' as you give them their toy and 'good dog'. The dog will then come to understand that this toy is acceptable to chew on and mommy or daddy's shoes and such are not. Don't leave your new puppy to try and figure things out for themselves. They will enevitably get themselves into more trouble. As a good parent to your pup you must point them in the right direction. Show them where to 'go pee', show them what they can and can not chew on and make them understand what is acceptable behaviour and what is not. It is always a good idea to practice Amichein Bonding with your dogs. This is a process that is good for dogs of all ages and will help to eliminate many bad behaviours. For more information read: How to tell if your dog has a superiority complex and what to do about it. at htp://www.thepetproject.zoomshare.com
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Answer 3

We buy cheap stuff toys for ours (make sure it is only stuffing inside, no beans or beads). He seems to enjoy tearing those up more than furniture, clothes, etc. It is much easier to gather up stuffing every once in a while than to buy new furniture every week, plus it is fun to see which chair he hides the stuff toy "carcasses" in after the destuffing. I agree with "ontario ashley" the more you wear a basenji out when you are there, the more they sleep while you are gone.

Answer 4

if it chews on something that is not on of its chew toy take it away and tap it on the nose and say bad dog