Trouble Training Adults Not To Chew

[zd262]

We have two foster lab mixes right now, probably around 1-2 years old. Really sweet dogs, but don't have a lick of training between them. We've made progress on everything except chewing. Since they're adults they can do damage REALLY QUICKLY (RIP macbook charger). When we catch them in the act we sternly scold and say "leave it" and redirect to an appropriate toy, but they are not getting any better and a lot of times will not give up the forbidden item without a fight (or a really good treat). Any tips?

[smartrock]

I wonder if that's one reason they're in the foster system right now? All our dogs we've gotten as puppies and only our first lab was bad about chewing stuff he shouldn't, a chair cover, the dining room table legs. Those he learned not to chew but he was banned from all stuffed toys and he'd eat socks. What sorts of things do you have for them that they can chew? Antlers? Thick retriever rolls? Marrow bones. Just wondering if there's any way to get them tired of chewing by making it a sanctioned activity at certain times of day with a few items. Preemptive chewing. I know more exercise is often advised. Feeding them from puzzle toys if it's a day you can't run them around outside for whatever reason. I've lived in the Triangle so I'll bet heat and humidity probably makes outside exercise less fun for you.

I imagine you've probably already looked online for ideas but if not, here are a few articles. There are a lot of articles but many are pretty repetitive of other articles.

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-c...uctive-chewing

https://dogtime.com/dog-health/dog-b...behavior-aspca

[Jollymolly]

Maybe try some rescue remedy. I would work on some relaxation stuff from Dr Karen Overall. Also maybe try to train for them to bring you anything they find for that high end reward

[zd262]

Smartrock - Definitely a good point! Though they were generally not well taken care of, I think that they were probably outside only dogs They love love chewing, hard or soft, more than any other dog or puppy we've had before. They have antlers, these wooden block chews that we get, benebones, and water buffalo horns. They've also gone through the majority of our soft toys at this point, even the ones that have lasted through our 12 past foster dogs that we considered to "stand the test of time". Puzzle toys is a really good idea, we haven't tried too many with them. They do get a fair amount of run around activity because they love to play with each other and will happily chase and wrestle in the backyard in addition to their neighborhood walks, but they probably need more brain based activity. We finally taught them to sit! They're so sweet but not quick to train.

Jollymolly - One in particular is definitely anxious. Even when she seems exhausted she will just chew for hours instead of sleeping. Rescue remedy is a really good suggestion for her. I'll also try doing more high reward exchange!

[pickyeater]

I use a bitter spray for my things that could they easily chew. I did that for about 2 months and after they never lick or tried to chew that thing that thy can reach. What they are chewing are their toys and I bought them toys of it!