10 Reasons For Havanese Chewing Behavior & Tips

Are you frustrated with your Havanese chewing behavior? You’re not alone! Many Havanese owners struggle with this common issue.

But don’t worry, there are solutions to help redirect your dog’s chewing habits.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into why Havanese dogs tend to chew, what you can do to prevent destructive chewing, and some fun, interactive chew toys to keep your pup entertained.

Say goodbye to ruined shoes and furniture, and hello to a happier, well-behaved Havanese.

Let’s get started!

Reasons For Havanese Chewing Behavior

Here are some common reasons for your Havanese chewing behavior:

1. Natural behavior

Chewing is a normal activity for dogs, and it is essential to supply your Havanese with proper chew toys to satisfy their chewing demand.

Chewing keeps their teeth clean and healthy, while also providing cerebral activity.

Providing a range of safe and acceptable chew toys for your Havanese can assist to reduce damaging chewing habits.

2. Teething process

Havanese pups, like human newborns, go through a teething phase in which they lose their baby teeth and adult teeth begin to grow.

This can cause discomfort, soreness, and itching in their gums, making them agitated and restless.

Chewing on items relieves discomfort and provides relief.

It is critical to supply your puppy with healthy and non-toxic chew toys to keep them from gnawing on improper materials that might injure them.

3. Boredom

Havanese dogs are social and intelligent and need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

If they don’t get enough exercise, playtime, and interactive toys, they can become bored and restless, which can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing.

Providing your Havanese with plenty of toys, puzzles and games that challenge his mind and body can help prevent boredom and reduce the likelihood of chewing.

4. Separation anxiety

Dogs are social animals and crave human companionship.

When left alone for long periods, some Havanese can develop separation anxiety, which can make them feel anxious, stressed, and scared.

This can lead to destructive behaviors such as chewing as a way to cope with one’s feelings or digging your home.

To help your Havanese cope with separation anxiety, gradually increase the amount of time you spend away from him.

Provide your Havanese with a comfortable and safe space to rest, and consider using pheromone sprays or calming supplements to reduce his anxiety.

Learn more about different ways to discipline your Havanese.

5. Hunger

If Havanese dogs aren’t receiving enough food or nutrients, they could chew on things.

Your dog requires a balanced diet to suit their nutritional requirements, and you should give them the right treats and chews to keep them happy.

If you believe your Havanese is underfed, ask a veterinarian to examine their diet and make any necessary changes.

6. Dental issues

If their teeth are damaged, they have gum disease, or they have oral infections, Havanese dogs may turn to chew on things to relieve their dental discomfort.

Chewing can reduce pain, discomfort, and inflammation brought on by these problems.

Having your Havanese’s teeth and gums cleaned and examined regularly will help avoid dental issues and maintain their overall health.

7. Attention-seeking

Havanese dogs like receiving affection and attention from people.

They could turn to damaging activities like chewing if they don’t receive enough attention or engagement.

Attention-seeking chewing may be avoided by giving your Havanese enough attention, playtime, and praise when they behave well.

8. Exploration

Havanese dogs are inquisitive and like exploring their surroundings.

One way they explore and learn about their surroundings is to chew on items.

The probability of your Havanese chewing on improper items can be decreased by giving them plenty of appropriate chew toys and other stuff to investigate.

9. Lack of exercise

Due to their high levels of energy and activity, Havanese dogs require daily exercise to stay healthy and content.

Lack of activity may cause them to feel restless and bored, which may trigger harmful behaviors like chewing.

Regular exercise, like walks, runs, or playing in a secure environment, will help to lessen your Havanese’s restlessness and stop them from chewing.

10. Stress

Havanese dogs can become stressed and anxious, particularly if they are in unusual circumstances or surroundings.

They may use chewing on items as a coping strategy to manage their tension and worry.

If your Havanese shows indications of stress or anxiety, giving them a tranquil and secure environment and seeking guidance from a vet or dog behaviorist will help to lessen their discomfort and stop destructive chewing.

How to stop Havanese chewing behavior

To stop a Havanese dog’s chewing behavior, you can try the following tips:

1. Provide plenty of chew toys: Havanese dogs love to chew, so make sure they have plenty of appropriate chew toys to keep them occupied.
2. Supervise your dog: Keep an eye on your Havanese when they are chewing to make sure they are not getting into anything they shouldn’t be.
3. Use deterrents: You can use bitter sprays or other dog-approved deterrents to discourage your dog from chewing on things they shouldn’t be, such as furniture or shoes.
4. Use positive reinforcement: Praising and rewarding your Havanese for appropriate chewing behavior can help reinforce that behavior. Make sure to use positive reinforcement consistently for the best results.
5. Redirect their behavior: When you catch your Havanese chewing on something they shouldn’t be, redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy.
6. Provide plenty of exercises and mental stimulation: A tired and mentally stimulated Havanese is less likely to engage in destructive chewing behavior.
7. Consult a professional: If your Havanese dog’s chewing behavior is causing property damage or injury, it may be helpful to consult with a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist for guidance on how to modify this behavior.

Potential Health Risks of Havanese Chewing

Here are some common potential health risks associated with Havanese dog chewing behavior:

1. Dental problems: Excessive chewing can lead to dental issues such as cracked teeth, gum damage, or even tooth loss.
2. Foreign body ingestion: When dogs chew on objects, they may accidentally ingest small pieces, which can lead to choking or bowel obstruction.
3. Poisoning: Some objects that dogs may chew on, such as toxic plants or chemicals, can poison them if ingested.
4. Intestinal blockages: Chewing on non-food objects like socks, plastic toys, or other household items can cause intestinal blockages, which may require surgery to remove.
5. Injuries to the digestive tract: Chewing on sharp objects like bones or sticks can lead to injuries to the esophagus or digestive tract.
6. Allergic reactions: Certain materials that dogs may chew on, such as rubber or plastic, can cause allergic reactions, which can be life-threatening.
7. Behavioral issues: Havanese dogs, like all dogs, need regular exercise and playtime to prevent destructive behavior such as uncontrollable chewing.
8. Infections: If a dog chews on objects that are dirty or contaminated, he may develop infections in the mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
9. Nutritional deficiencies: If a dog excessively chews on non-food objects, it may indicate a nutritional deficiency or boredom that needs to be addressed with the right diet and exercise.

Chew Toys for Havanese dogs

According to some Havanese dog owners we contacted, here are some common chew toys for Havanese dogs:

1. KIPRITII Dog Chew Toys for Puppy – 20 Pack Puppies Teething Chew Toys for Boredom, Pet Dog Toothbrush Chew Toys with Rope Toys, Treat Balls and Dog Squeaky Toy for Puppy and Small Dogs.
2. Benebone Wishbone Durable Dog Chew Toy for Aggressive Chewers, Real Peanut, Made in USA.
3. Nylabone Puppy Triple Pack – Pink Puppy Teething Toy, Nylon Dog Toy, & Chew Treat Variety Pack – Puppy Supplies – Chicken and Bacon Flavors, Small/Regular (3 Count).

You can get it on Amazon.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding your Havanese’s chewing behavior is crucial to their health and happiness.

By providing them with appropriate chew toys and monitoring their behavior, you can prevent destructive chewing and keep them safe from potential hazards.

Remember, chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, and with a little patience and training, you can redirect their chewing habits to more appropriate outlets.