Chewing Wooden Furniture

[Abby]

I didn't think I'd be posting a puppy problem here - as up until the last few weeks, our second pup has been a breeze. But recently, at almost 10 months of age, he has started to chew furniture when we're not at home. We never catch him doing it so we can't do the direct reprimand. Up until now we haven't seen any signs of boredom with the two dogs and the amount of time and frequency they're left alone has not changed. I am at a loss what to do! We've tried that bitter spray but it doesn't repel him. We have had doors, skirting boards, table legs and even the wall chewed - and I am not sure what to do to stop him. (I am pretty sure it is him and not our two-year-old female.) They have chews, toys and plenty of space to run around. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks.

[Animal House]

Put him outside, or crate him. Then supervise when indoors.

[Abby]

Thanks for the suggestion. We don't have crates but it sounds like a good idea. Since we've got two small dogs, do we put them in one crate or have two crates side by side? Or should we let the older dog 'free range' as usual?

[Animal House]

I would just put the chewer in a crate (maybe in the kitchen) and then let the older dog (loose) in there as well. Never a good idea to let dogs have free roam of a house. You could crate both of them (always separately though) if you think it would help them settle more.

A kong stuffed with treats/peanut butter is a good distraction in the crate.

Alternatively, a puppy pen and stick both of them in it.