How to Keep Your Dog From Chewing on Deck Rails
Boredom, hunger, teething and stress are all reasons dogs want to chew. Wood happens to be a natural chew toy that wild dogs use to pass the time with and clean their teeth. A few lines of defense, some appropriate dog-safe distractions and proven techniques quickly eradicate problem-gnawing behaviors. Most pet supply stores carry everything you need to train your dog to prefer its things to your things.
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Instructions
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Apply a no-chew dog repellent on the areas of the rails the dog has access to.
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Place a favorite chew toy in between the dog and the deck railing.
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Reward the dog when it approaches the toy, even though you set it up that way.
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Keep weather-appropriate toys made from materials the dog prefers to chew on near potential gnawing areas.
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Interrupt inappropriate gnawing with a loud noise the dog does not associate with you; for example, drop a book flat on the floor. This should focus its attention on looking for the noise.
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Offer the dog a pet-safe chew toy to redirect the its behavior.
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Offer a reward and praise the dog lavishly when it accepts the toy into its mouth.
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Tips & Warnings
Set your pet up for success instead of failure so that training session is a success when introducing new rules and training methods.
Filling toys with kibble at mealtimes rewards the dog for good chewing behavior.
Be consistent with commands as well as in offering rewards to maximize the chances of success.
Some dogs are life-long chewers, while other may only chew during teething.
Never hit or "spank" a dog for bad behavior because it results in a multitude of other behavior disorders.
Never punish or discipline a dog if you do not actually catch it in the act, because it cannot make the connection.
Inhumane training methods are ineffective and illegal.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
