Why Is My Dog Chewing On Towels?
It can be intriguing or even frustrating for dog owners to see their dogs chewing on towels. But why do dogs chew on towels?
Is it because they are bored, having teething troubles, suffering from anxiety, or just because they love the softness of the towel? Let‘s find out.
Quick Highlights
In this blog post, we will talk about the following;
1. Reasons For Chewing On Towel.
2. How To Manage The Situation?
Teething Troubles
If you have a puppy, then don‘t worry; it‘s because chewing is a natural part of their teething.
Like babies, puppies experience discomfort when their teeth grow, and chewing can help reduce pain.
If your dog is still young, chewing on a towel may be its way of easing the discomfort of teething because the towel is soft.
Provide your pup with many chewing toys to help them grow their teeth safely.
Boredom
Boredom is one of the most common causes of destructive chewing in dogs.
If you aren’t giving enough mental or physical stimulation to your canine, they may turn to chew to burn off energy.
Towels are easily accessible and, if left out, can become the perfect target for a bored dog.
Separation Anxiety
Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety often chew on household items when left alone.
Chewing on a towel might comfort your dog, especially if the towel smells like you. Consult a vet to reduce the anxiety.
Comfort And Soothing
Some dogs chew on towels, blankets, or stuffed animals because it feels like an automatic form of self–soothing.
This behavior can be widespread in dogs separated from their mother or littermates too early.
The towel might substitute for the mother’s fur or a sibling’s presence.
How to Curb the Chewing?
If your dog is a towel enthusiast, here are some tips to help curb this behavior:
Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
Offer your dog a variety of chew toys specifically designed for its size and breed. This will give it a safe and satisfying outlet for its chewing instincts.
You can offer commercial chews like Himalayan Dog Chews, Collachews, and Yak Chews.
Or, if you prefer a natural chew, you can consider Cow Hooves, Raw Chicken Bones, and Buffalo Horns for your dog.
Mental Stimulation
Keep your dog‘s mind engaged with training sessions, puzzle toys, and interactive games.
Physical Exercise
Ensure your dog gets enough daily exercise to prevent boredom. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors.
Address Underlying Issues
If you suspect your dog‘s chewing is related to anxiety or separation anxiety, consult a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.
Safeguard Your Towels
While you can‘t completely prevent your dog from chewing, you can protect your towels by keeping them out of reach or using a crate when you‘re away.
Final Thoughts
Chewing on towels might seem like a strange habit, but it’s often rooted in instincts, emotional needs, or curiosity for your dog.
By understanding the cause behind this behavior, you can take steps to manage it effectively, ensuring both you and your dog remain happy and stress–free.
