Picture the scene. You’re coming back home. But as you unlock the door, your dog, Fido, flees in the bedroom where he hides under the bed, instead of greeting you. At first, you’re surprised and wonder what happened. But soon you discover the cause of Fido’s odd behavior. The living room opens on an opened sofa that Fido chewed until he exposed its metallic structure. Next to the pile of cushion padding scattered across the room, you notice your favorite pair of leather heels, covered in sharp tooth marks. The rest of your home is in a similar state of devastation. You barely can contain your anger as you shout “bad dog” at the attention of Fido, who hides further away under the bed. Why did he destroy your home?
Because you haven’t trained your pet
Every dog needs to be trained to behave appropriately. It is unfair to assume that your pet should know instinctively what is right and wrong without dedicated dog training. Indeed, your dog needs to learn to recognize basic commands, such as sit, stay, or stop. Otherwise, it becomes tricky to manage Fido’s behavior! Additionally, you can also use the training to tame Fido’s energetic personality; encouraging him to calm down and obey the rules. Some dogs are quicker to learn than others, but all need to know the basics!
Because your dog is anxious
Dogs can get nervous, especially when you leave them alone for an extended period of time. As a pet owner, you need to understand that Fido might prefer a doggy daycare center than staying at home while you’re at work. Indeed, separation anxiety is a common issue for dogs and can lead to unpleasant behavioral reactions. For instance, if Fido tends to destroy your clothes and shoes, it might be a sign that he’s trying to surround himself with your smell while you’re away. Do make sure to create a relaxing and soothing environment for him before you head to the office. Alternative, you can also book a pen at your local pet daycare!
Because you don’t spend enough time with him
Fido can get bored. But unlike you, it’s not something he can cure by checking his social media accounts or turning the TV on. If you don’t play with your dog, you might come across behavioral problems such as a path of destruction at home each time you leave Fido alone. Can you blame him? He got bored. Playing with your pet reinforces positive play and social behaviors. Additionally, it’s the perfect way of getting rid of the excess energy!
Because you give him bad habits
Lastly, you need to be consistent when it comes to rules. For instance, letting Fido play with your shoes while you’re at home might encourage him to believe that it is okay. Similarly, if you don’t want him to sit on the sofa, don’t let him join you for an evening cuddle on the couch. Indeed, sending mixed signals is only going to confuse your dog.
Pets can leave your house is a state of extreme desolation, destroying everything they can put their teeth on. But their behavior is a response to their experience and environment. If, as a pet owner, you fail to establish rules or play with your dog, you can only blame yourself for the damages Fido caused.