You are likely reading this article because your puppy has become a destructible little chewing machine. Has your puppy destroyed several pairs of your expensive and highly cherished dress shoes, or your best furniture? Are you concerned that your teething puppy might hurt someone or that he will cause even more damage in your home with his chewing?

You can choose to stop reading at this point and wait until your puppy hurts someone or damages a very expensive piece of furniture beyond repair if you want to. On the other hand, you continue reading and follow the tips outlined below to help stop your puppy from chewing on you and eating your furniture.

• Understand that just like human babies, your canine baby cannot help but chew on things to relive pain as his new teeth come in Supply your puppy with a variety of different textured chew toys. This gives your puppy acceptable items to chew on other than your furniture, family, and guests visiting your home. Commend your puppy whenever you see him chewing on his chewable toys to encourage this behavior more.

• Do not play rough with your pup because this can teach puppies to chew on human hands. If your puppy starts to chew on your hand or arm when you are petting him, immediately put your hand flat against his mouth and nose and gently push him backwards a step or two while telling him not to bite, using a stern tone with him. This helps puppies learn how to respect boundaries and to exhibit proper behavior.

• Apply a bitter tasting substance to furniture that is safe for treating. One experience with the awful taste usually stops puppies from chewing on them again. Tie together some metal cans half-filled with small stones or marbles, and rig it to fall off and scare your puppy if he tries to chew on untreated furniture.