Shih Tzu Destructive Chewing

Overview

There is a very good reason why destructive chewing ranks among the top behavior issues that owners have with their dogs. It can be frustrating to try and keep up with a puppy or dog's strong chewing urges. Toys may be ignored and items in your house may be getting destroyed. Not to mention the dangers involved in a Shih Tzu mouthing non-toy objects. This article covers reasons for destructive chewing and how to resolve this.

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5 Top Reasons for Destructive Chewing

#1 Teething

From about 4 to 10 months old, and occasionally up to a year, a Shih Tzu puppy will go through a difficult teething phase, causing discomfort and intense itching as adult teeth emerge. This can lead them to mouth and chew on anything within reach to find relief. Initially, they explore objects by mouthing to see if it helps, then chew more if it provides comfort, especially when teething is intense.

#2 Lack of Training

Dogs cannot naturally differentiate between their toys and household items. To them, there is not much difference between your gym bag and their stuffed animal. So, proper training is crucial for them to learn what is appropriate to chew. More details ahead.

#3 Boredom or Stress

A bored dog left alone can resort to destructive behavior, including chewing and ripping up anything accessible. If your Shih Tzu is home alone, you might return to find things in disarray, with shredded items. Additionally, dogs often chew as a stress-relief mechanism, especially during high-stress periods, moving from one object to another to alleviate frustration.

#4 Limited Options

If a Shih Tzu puppy is teething or an older dog has a natural chewing urge and there is a lack of proper chew toys, they will inevitably chew on other things. Even if you provide toys, if they're unappealing or ineffective, they might as well be absent, leading a Shih Tzu to seek alternatives.

How to Fix Destructive Chewing Issues

If your Shih Tzu puppy is in a teething frenzy or your older adult dog is ripping things apart, there are solutions to this. However, it will take a bit of work on your part. Not only is the state of your house in play, this also relates to your dog's safety; so, this is no time to be half in the game. Follow as many tips as are applicable to your Shih Tzu.

#1 Dog-proof the House

This should always be the first step. If your Shih Tzu tears up your personal items, part of the issue is the accessibility of these items. So, dog-proofing the house is essential, as a Shih Tzu with strong chewing habits may mouth anything within reach. Elevate floor-level objects like shoes, a common target for dogs with chewing tendencies, to higher places like shelves or closets. Protect electrical cords with cord protectors, such as the Small Pet Heavy Duty Cord Cover, to prevent possible electric shock or electrocution.

#2 When You Can't Supervise, Keep your Shih Tzu in a Designated Area

Until your Shih Tzu reliably follows all household rules, they should stay in a designated area when you are unavailable to supervise. Some adult Shih Tzu dogs may never be suited for complete free roam due to numerous temptations and potential mishaps. A defined space can also reduce separation anxiety, as free roam can leave toys and aids too far away, exacerbating loneliness.

We never recommend crating a Shih Tzu; it can be extremely stressful. A canine playpen, like the FXW Dog Indoor Playpen is ideal; the 24" height is good for a puppy, the 34" is best for older pups and Shih Tzu adults that are jumpers. This should be stocked with all your Shih Tzu's supplies including bed, food and water bowls, a variety of toys, and pee pads for bathroom needs.

#3 Give Your Shih Tzu Effective Chew Toys

A Shih Tzu can't really be blamed for chewing on non-toy objects if they don't have some great chew toys. Here are our top picks that will provide lots of chewing satisfaction:

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For Teething Puppies:

Puppies in the teething phase need toys that are appropriately sized for small mouths, the right texture and elements to attract and engage a pup. These are our top recommendations:

#1. The Petstages Cool Teething Stick. This is a great fabric toy that you soak with water, freeze in the fridge and then give to your Shih Tzu puppy for cooling relief. It's well-sized with lots of options, so a puppy can choose just the right piece of fabric to gnaw on.

#2. The Petstages Mini Bone Tug Toy. This is a cute toy with three interconnected pieces covered with small nubs that feel good on a teething puppy's itchy gums.

#3. The Volacopets 4 Pack of Puppy Teething Balls. This set offers a puppy lots of options; it comes with four balls of various textures including a colorful rope ball. And their 2-inch diameter is sized great for Shih Tzu puppies.

For Adult Shih Tzu Dogs (1 Year and Up), Aggressive Chewers:

Once a Shih Tzu is at the 1-year-mark and beyond, it's time to start looking to toys that can withstand the sharp teeth of an adult. Enticement is still important; the toy must draw a dog's focus and keep them happily busy. Importantly, chewing on it must feel good, otherwise it won't do any good at all. These are our top picks:

#1. Dogwood Chew Stick. This made-in-the-USA toy has all the taste and texture of a natural tree branch, but won’t splinter. It's made for strong chewers and it lasts a long time. It starts at size extra-small. And it has options of safe scents including real wood or Mesquite BBQ.

#2. It's impossible to talk about help for Shih Tzu dogs that chew without mentioning KONGS. The KONG Goodie Bone Dog Toy in Size Small is sized for dogs 20 lbs. and under. It's the same durable KONG material that is so well-known; this will withstand a lot. It holds treats inside to keep a dog interested and special 'grippers' keep them in place.

#3. Rocket & Rex 4-Pack of Rope Toys. If your Shih Tzu likes to chew on fabric, this is a great choice. There's 4 different cotton ropes with varying lengths and thickness, for the most discerning dogs.

#4 Training: Gain Attention, Do a Switch

With a Shih Tzu in their designated area when you are not home (Previous Step #2), and with a nice collection of approved chew toys (Previous Step #3), it'll be time to put some training in place for when you are supervising them. Any time you see your little guy or gal about to chew on a non-toy object, immediately clap your hands loudly to gain their attention. Have a toy at the ready and make a switch. Do not ask for a trade which gives a dog the chance to say no. Simply make the switch and place the non-toy object out of reach, where it should remain. When they chew on their toy, give lots of excited praise.

#5 For Furniture, Consider Trying a Deterrent Spray

Ideally, keep your Shih Tzu in a designated area away from chewable items when unsupervised. But, if your dog is free in the house and chews on carpets or furniture, consider using a chewing deterrent spray like Grannicks Bitter Apple Dog Chew Deterrent. These sprays, with their bitter taste, can help to discourage dogs from chewing. However, oddly enough, some dogs don't mind the taste, so it's a hit or miss. The spray is non-toxic and can be applied to almost any household item.

#6 Provide Routine Exercise and Activity

This breed requires daily exercise and interaction for physical and emotional well-being. Insufficient activity can lead to pent-up energy, often resulting in destructive chewing behaviors. So, you'll want take your Shih Tzu for at least two daily walks, for a minimum of 20 minutes, at a pace that's brisk for your dog. It can also help to incorporate daily sessions of cardio, with 'fetch' being an ideal activity for this. On cold days, consider some warm clothing for your Shih Tzu so you can head out for walks no matter the weather.

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