From your favorite pair of loafers to those expensive heels you only wear on special occasions, no shoe is safe when you have a dog. But why do dogs eat shoes?
The Comfort Factor
Believe it or not, your smelly shoes actually bring comfort to your furry friend.
Dogs are scent-driven creatures. To them, your shoe is not just a shoe: it’s a treasure trove of fascinating aromas, carrying with it all the places you’ve been and the things you’ve stepped on.
Still, the primary allure of your shoes is your scent, which is especially strong in items you wear. Your smell is comforting to your dog, it’s the olfactory equivalent of a hug.
So while it may seem gross to you, to your dog, your shoe is like a soothing security blanket.
Teething Troubles
Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase. And it can be just as painful and frustrating for them as it is for human infants.
To soothe their aching gums, puppies will chew on just about anything they can get their paws on. Unfortunately for your footwear, shoes are a prime target.
Here are some signs your puppy might be teething:
- Excessive drooling
- Whining or signs of discomfort
- Chewing on anything and everything
Boredom Bites
Dogs are intelligent, active creatures that require lots of mental and physical stimulation. If they don’t get it, they can become bored. And a bored dog is a destructive dog.
In the absence of toys or other forms of entertainment, your shoes become an appealing chew toy.
Consider the following table to ensure your dog is getting enough exercise:
| Dog Size | Minimum Exercise Per Day |
|---|---|
| Small | 30 minutes |
| Medium | 1 hour |
| Large | 2 hours |
Seeking Attention
Sometimes, dogs chew on shoes simply to get your attention.
If you always react when they chew your shoes (even if it’s just to scold them), they quickly learn that shoe-chewing is a surefire way to get you to notice them.
To prevent this, make sure to give your dog plenty of positive attention when they’re not engaging in destructive behavior.
Anxiety Issues
Chewing can also be a sign of stress or anxiety in dogs.
If your dog only chews on your shoes when you’re not home, it could be a symptom of separation anxiety. They chew on your shoes because they miss you and your smell comforts them.
FAQ
Q: How can I stop my dog from chewing shoes?
A: Provide them with plenty of chew toys, give them enough exercise and attention, and keep your shoes out of their reach.
Q: Can shoe-chewing harm my dog?
A: Yes, if they swallow pieces of the shoe, it could cause digestive blockages.
Q: Should I punish my dog for chewing shoes?
A: No, punishment usually doesn’t work and can lead to fear or anxiety. Instead, redirect their chewing to appropriate items.
Q: Can I use shoe-chewing as a sign my dog needs more exercise?
A: Yes, destructive behavior like shoe-chewing is often a sign of boredom or pent-up energy.
Remember, understanding is the first step towards resolution. With a little patience and a lot of love, you and your dog can conquer the shoe-chewing habit together.
