[Sparkles2022]

What is your preferred anti-chew spray? I've tried Tropiclean Stay Away and Scout's Honor Bitter Apple, to no avail. She looks like you've seasoned the forbidden item for her when you're done. What's worked for you?

 

[Toedtoes]

I haven't found any to be effective with a dog who really wants to chew.

Supervision is the best deterrent - and redirection with appropriate chews.

 

[RonE]

I had at least one dog who considered Bitter Apple a condiment. Then she ate a sleeper sofa.

It was my sister's sofa and really ugly. When my dog was done with it, I could carry the remains out to the trash in one trip.

 

[BigBlackDog]

I had at least one dog who considered Bitter Apple a condiment. Then she ate a sleeper sofa.

It was my sister's sofa and really ugly. When my dog was done with it, I could carry the remains out to the trash in one trip.

At least the dog was thorough! I've always preferred teaching a dog what is and is not okay to chew on, as opposed to sprays and such...

 

[Sparkles2022]

How do you do that, BigBlackDog? I've tried replacing the forbidden object with her toys, but she always goes back & has a particular affinity for rug tassels.

 

[BigBlackDog]

Well, I really don't want to get into yet another philosophical argument about dog training here. But if it were me I'd tell the dog to "knock it off", or "No" if you prefer, followed by an age and size and temperament appropriate correction. Then I'd give the dog something that was okay to chew on. A couple repetitions of that should work.

It's not rocket science! Dissuade behavior that is undesirable and reward desirable behaviors...i.e. communication.

 

[Toedtoes]

I understand the rug tassels obsession. I have a few pillows and a couple throw blankets with pompoms on them... Well they all used to have pompoms. After I realized Tornado-dog had an obsession with them, I just put them away. Now at 15 months, his obsession has died down, so they are back out.

Sometimes, just removing the item while the puppy grows up is better than trying to fight against an obsession.

 

[AnthonyC482]

Instead of bitter apple, I created a homemade spray using red vinegar, red pepper flakes, and water. Reddit was where I got the idea. It's quite effective, but after it wears off, my mini Aussie simply returns. As a result, you must use it with caution!