You can stop your dog from chewing you out of your home

By Joe Timko & Randy Neece

Tired of screaming, "That was my favorite pair of shoes!" or "I’m not buying another new carpet!" or even, "!!@##*(!!!*#*!!"? Not only can chewing spell disaster for valued possessions, it could also be harmful if your pup chews on the wrong item.

An electrical cord is a prime target for your curious canine. Bug sprays, poisons and even common plants like lilies, poinsettia and philodendron can be harmful or fatal if your dog swallows them.

Even a small amount of chocolate can be toxic to your dog—so no fudge for Fido.

We’ve all seen how a baby seems to put everything it touches into its mouth, and puppies do the same thing. Have a variety of chew toys available to your dog. If he is chewing on something he shouldn’t be, take it from his mouth and say in a low, growling voice, "Uh uh." Then give him one of his toys as a substitute.

Once in a while, if you can’t keep an eye on your dog, put him in his crate with a few of his toys. This will protect him and your treasures.

So go ahead, buy that new pair of leather shoes. But play it safe and don’t leave them out on the floor where your dog may assume they’re his to eat.

For more information on dog care and training, please call Canyon View Training Ranch for Dogs at (310) 455-7897.