Should You Get a Dog Couch Or A Dog Coach?
Is your dog ruining your furniture? Do you constantly have to buy new furniture or reupholster the old one because of those pesky four-legged friends who enjoy destroying the couch, chair, and even the bed?
Our dogs are adorable, and it’s hard to be mad at them when they’re chewing on the furniture.
But I also know what you’re thinking: “How can I stop my dog from ruining the furniture?”
Well, we’ve got some tips for you!
In this blog post, we will help you convert your dog from a restless teenager who chews on the couch to a laid-back adult who simply enjoys sitting on that same couch while you’re watching your favorite TV show together.
All it takes is a few simple steps, and no more worries about expensive items being destroyed!
Don’t Skimp on Chew Toys.
Dogs chew things because it is a) fun, b) their way to keep their oral hygiene, and c) to exercise their jaws.
For teething puppies, chewing is a way to relax and make their gums more comfortable.
Therefore, if you don’t want your dog to ruin your furniture, find something else for him to chew!
Instead of a pillow or couches, your dog should chew and ruin its toys.
However, it might take time to find out your dog's preferences.
If you are getting a chew toy, avoid lamb and chicken bones because the dog may break the bone, and the small pieces may get stuck.
You can use Nylabone or dental chew sticks. They seem to work for most dogs!
Kongs and balls can also be great chew toys if you find the appropriate size for your dog.
Also, never give your dog an old piece of furniture or item to chew.
For example, if you give your dog the old pillow to chew, your furry friend won’t know the difference between old and new pillows in the future!
Create a Safe area
Create an area where your dog cannot chew on things he should not. This can be in a laundry room with a baby gate, so the pup can still see you. You can also do it in a hallway that you can close off. But finding a safe area will protect much furniture.
Spritz Mist on The Furniture
Did you know that dogs don’t like certain smells? Also, their sense of smell is much more intense than that of humans.
You can add a small amount of store-bought dog repellent spray to the furniture to keep the dog away from things you want to keep safe and sound!
Additionally, you can always make your spray.
The combination of white vinegar and citrus essential oils will work like a charm!
Mix at least 20 drops of citrus essential oil with two tablespoons of white vinegar.
Add a little bit of water to mix everything easier.
Pour into a spray bottle and use it to mark the forbidden territory for your dog!
Check If Your Dog Is Sick
Sometimes, when a dog suffers from a certain nutritional deficiency, it can increase its urge to chew.
That is why your furniture comes next!
Also, some intestinal parasitism can cause behavior like excessive chewing on furniture.
Chewing things, including sofas and chairs, may help nauseated dogs cope with discomfort.
If your dog looks sick and has other changes in his behavior and suddenly starts eating your furniture, visit a vet to rule out diseases.
Provide Distraction
Sometimes, dogs chew furniture (or anything else they come across) because they are bored or they suffer from separation anxiety!
You can easily find out if chewing is the consequence of anxiety if your dog only chews things when you’re away.
Also, you can dedicate one toy for the dog alone.
When you leave home, give the dog that special toy so he can be distracted and entertained during the alone time.
You can also find some mental stimulation toys for your caring friend to play with when you’re away.
Classic Kong toys can be a solution or invest in some more advanced toy puzzles, which should keep the dog busy for hours.
Punishment Isn’t the Answer!
Punishment is never the solution because your dog won’t know why you punished him!
Chewing things, including your furniture, comes naturally to dogs, so they won’t connect the punishment with their actions.
You’ll only stress your doggo and make other methods less successful.
In the worst-case scenario, your dog can start ruining things out of despair and anger for being punished!
Final Thoughts
We all know the dreaded moment when we walk into our living room and see that the couch has suddenly become your dog’s new chew toy.
It’s not surprising if you think about it. Dogs like to chew things, as we’ve already mentioned!
But hey, if you decide to solve this issue, it doesn’t have to be like that forever!
Take these six tips and resolve this problem now and forever!