i have a lab cross recently when i go out with the rest of my family hes started chewing thru plasterboard in the kitchen and bathroom,iv had him for 51/2 years and hes never done it before.Nothings changed at home he gets walked 3 times a day plenty of chews and toys,lots of attention,im at my wits end dont no what to do!
2006-11-12 19:21:42 · 14 answers · asked by skyebluetops 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Use a crate when you are not able to supervise your dog especially if he is chewing and destroying things in your house. This will not only prevent him from destroying your house but it will also prevent the possibility of him hurting himself in case he ingests something that is not edible. Sounds like he his bored and he needs more exercise and mental stimulation. Dogs can get bored with the same routine just like humans.
2006-11-12 19:32:00 · answer #1 · answered by Shepherdgirl § 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you've had him for over five years and he hasn't done this before then something must have changed for it to have begun, even if you can't spot it at the moment. Is the plasterboard new (he might have just taken a liking to it and thought it was for him!)? Are his teeth/gums healthy? Is his diet the same? Are there any new noises/things going on outside that might become more apparent to him/scare him when you're out? He could simply have got bored - how long is he left for?
My dog started to rip up my house when I split up with my ex a number of years ago (I ended up having the whole house laminated because she tore the carpets up) because she was left on her own for longer (he worked shifts and so she was used to being with one of us). Now I work from home she's fine (except when there are fireworks, then she's terrified and pees), but with your dog I'd suggest speaking to a dog trainer or vet about what triggers there may be to your dog's behaviour. It could even be diet-related - there might be something in the plasterboard that he wants (as bizarre as that sounds).
You can only know by speaking to an expert. Have a look at this website link: http://www.canineconcepts.co.uk/ccp51/cc/dog-behaviour/chewing.shtml
2006-11-13 06:18:24 · answer #2 · answered by PeaceLily 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First of all ignore anyone who mentions crate training, this simply prevents the dog from doing what it wants to do it does not stop the dog from wanting to do it. I had a dog which chewed up floor boards and too wallpaper from the walls, its boredom that causes it, dogs are social animals and will behave badly when alone simply for something to do. I found that by painting the most commonly chewed areas with bitrex, thats the same stuff you would use to stop biting your nails and by providing tastier and more interesting alternatives my dog soon stopped chewing. My dog also adopted a small cuddly toy as a companion, might just have been her way but could be worth a try too.
2006-11-13 03:49:16 · answer #3 · answered by nothappy 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
sounds like he's having anxiety attacks.
try leaving him for only a short while at a time, and when you are out leave the radio on or TV.
also try ignoring him for about 20 mins before you go out, this gives him an idea of whats to be expected.
maybe the recent fireworks have really upset him hence the sudden anxiety attacks.
if worst comes to the worst, and you don't like the idea of caging him while you are out, see an animal behaviousrist.
hope this helps and good luck with your dog.
xxx
2006-11-14 04:43:38 · answer #4 · answered by sasha 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You obviously give your dog so much attention that he hates being left for even a short time. The destruction is guaranteed to get your attention, even if it is in the form of punishment. You should consider buying or building an outside pen and kennel for when you have to leave him behind.
The penny will drop eventually.
2006-11-13 09:01:21 · answer #5 · answered by des c 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You may also want to consider getting him a companion to help burn off some of that energy. I have a lab and a lab/rott and they are CONSTANTLY playing and roughhousing. They are the same age as your lab. Also, playing fetch with a tennis ball.
I agree with the person who advised not to crate him. I would however consider limiting his access while you're gone to only certain parts of the house. We use baby gates to keep our 4 leggeds corralled.
2006-11-13 05:28:49 · answer #6 · answered by Stacy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
right 1st how old is the dog if he is a puppy or a bit older go to a pet shop and by a nyrl bone its a solid bone which it can chew and not destroy it 2 do you have a dog flap so he can go out side if not and you live ground level the i would suggest you get one so he can go out side
2006-11-13 03:38:07 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Friendly Hello,
This is common with dogs that dont like to be left behind. I would invest in a dog crate suitable for his size and when you are away. Put him in it so he does not destroy your home. Put his toys in and he will be ok. I am sorry to hear this is happening with you and your family member..
Blessings,
2006-11-13 06:38:26 · answer #8 · answered by Gentle Giant Canines 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Ask the vet in the first instance, I am sure they will have an idea of what help there is at hand. Good luck
2006-11-13 03:23:13 · answer #9 · answered by Stephanie C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it looks to me that your dog is going threw speation anxiety, you should but your dog a kong when you leave fill the kong with treat, this way your dog wont miss you and the anxiety will slowy leave!
2006-11-13 03:43:31 · answer #10 · answered by Montella 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋