How to Stop a Japanese Chin Spaniel Chewing

Many pet owners consider the Japanese chin spaniel as a two-in-one pet. You will discover that this toy dog, which is also the dog of Japanese royalty then and now, is the most cat-like of all breeds. Your Japanese chin will rest on high surfaces, walk across tables without disturbing a single item and even wash its paws and face with its tongue!

Aside from said cat-like behavior, Japanese chins are alert, independent and intelligent animals. In fact, your pet belongs to the list of the most intelligent dogs in the world despite their small sizes. Indeed, big surprises often come in small packages.

Then again, big dog issues similarly come in Japanese chin sizes particularly where chewing is concerned. Your pet can become destructive in this sense so much so that it can be a temptation to put it away inside a dog crate, maybe for the rest of its natural life, just to prevent it from chewing on just about anything.

Well, don’t despair. You have so many helping hands willing to reach out and provide valuable input on how to stop your beloved Japanese chin spaniel from chewing. You can start by adopting the following steps.

Look at the Things Being Chewed

First, you have to determine the things being chewed on. You only have a behavioral problem on your hands if and when your dog is chewing on the furniture, clothes and other items around the house except for its chew toys.

Depending on the things being chewed on, you can either get them out of the way from your Japanese chin’s reach or spray them with bitter-tasting substances. Ask the pet store staff for said chewing-deterrent sprays.

Look at the Causes of the Behavior

If your Japanese chin diverts its attention to other items in the house, then you should consider the causes behind the chewing behavior. You will find that there are two basic causes for a Japanese chin, or any other dog breed, for that matter – teething needs and socialization issues.

For teething needs, your pet will definitely need a chewing toy. You should purchase these toys and treats from pet stores at affordable prices, which means that you can save money on the repair and replacement costs for your ruined furniture and appliances. You may even freeze the toy to provide more relief for your Japanese chin.

If your pet is already past the age of teething or it does not respond to the toys/treats, your next step is to look at socialization issues. It must be noted that Japanese chins require plenty of companionship and attention so much so that separation anxiety is often stronger in the breed than in others. Plus, you have to provide for sufficient socialization opportunities to help your pet overcome its natural sense of suspiciousness and shyness.

Your best steps are to provide more socialization opportunities for your Japanese chin with other dogs and humans, spend more time with him and, of course, start obedience training classes. Soon, your beloved little dog with catlike qualities will be as well-behaved as Japanese royalty.