What Causes A Dog To Become Destructive

Dogs can become destructive for many different reasons but most of them are related to behavioral problems.  For example, dogs may become destructive if they are bored or lonely; or if they have a problem with separation anxiety.  It could also be that they are not getting enough exercise.  In order to change your dog’s destructive behavior you need to find out first why your dog is being destructive and then work backwards.  Often times, there is a specific reason why your dog is exhibiting this behaviour and it is your responsibility to determine what it is.

What Causes A Dog To Become Destructive?

Loneliness or Boredom

Many dogs are bored and lonely while their owner is at work during the day.  People have to work but you should make sure that your dog has ways to keep himself occupied while you are gone.  Provide your dog with lots of toys and safe things to chew on while you’re away.  Spend quality time with your dog when you’re home.  And make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise.  Tired dogs are more likely to sleep during the day instead of finding ways to be destructive.

It is also possible that your dog may be experiencing a form of separation anxiety which is what is causing him to destroy things while you are out.  To learn more about this, check out our blog post titled “Does Your Dog Suffer From Separation Anxiety”.

If They Are Acting Out

These are a few of the reasons why puppies and dogs can become destructive.  Dogs can absolutely act out like children if they are upset or pouting about something so if your dog is being destructive he may be upset with you about something.  Are you dating someone new?  Do you have a new spouse or a new baby?  Have you recently moved?  If there have recently been major changes in your life, your dog may be letting you know that he is not happy about them.  Try spending more time with your dog to let him know that you still love him and that everything is okay.  If possible, try to encourage your new date or your new spouse to get to know your dog and build a relationship.  Also try including your dog in the some of the things you do.

Lack Of Exercise

One of the key things you can do for your dog is make sure he gets plenty of exercise each week.  Dogs that don’t get enough exercise are much more likely to display all sorts of behavioral problems.  Exercise can also help keep your dog calmer and happier, plus it’s good for his physical health, too.

Age (Puppies)

Puppies start getting their adult teeth when they are about four months old.  They will go on losing teeth and getting their adult teeth until they are about 18 months old.  During these months puppies will chew on almost anything in the house.  Be sure to provide your puppy with lots of safe things to chew on.  Give him hard chews, soft chews, high quality rawhides, and frozen chews to help with the teething process.

Puppies can also go plain nuts at times, just like little kids.  They should not be left alone to play in the entire house without supervision no matter how good you think they are.  If you have a puppy and you work during the day, use baby gates or pet gates to close off areas in your home.  Limit the space where your puppy can play to places where he won’t be able to do much damage.