When your dog shows signs of destructive behavior, very often the cause is stress (and boredom). If your animal starts chewing up everything within it’s reach, barks excessively, even experiences diarrhea or vomitting, it might be a sign of needing more attention. (Vomitting and diarreha can also be caused by a change of food and several other diseases. Please check with your vet if in doubt!). Especially dogs that are kept alone and/or in crates for a long period of time have the tendency to either pester the owner for attention, or develop a liking for chewing up everything from your dress shoes to sofas.

A simple solution to correct this behavior and to relieve stress is to schedule daily play time. Toss frisbees, balls, sticks, go for a jog or a long walk with your dog. It will not only calm down your animal and make it happier, it will also reflect on your health and your waistline!