Chewing and digging are normal dog behaviors. But if you\u2019re coming home to chewed shoes, gnawed furniture legs or gouges around the door frame, your dog could be suffering from separation anxiety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Destructiveness is a common anxiety symptom that can include chewing, digging and scratching household objects around the home. Some dogs will also carry or drag items from one room to another. The damage can range from minor to extensive, depending on the severity of the anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If a dog is intent on escaping their environment, they\u2019ll focus their efforts on exit points. The dog might chew or scratch at door frames or window sills, or push on their crate door, or try to jump over their pet gate. In more severe cases, dogs have injured themselves in their desperate attempts to escape \u2014 even throwing themselves through glass doors and windows. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If these things are happening, it isn\u2019t because your dog is choosing to \u201cbe bad\u201d; it is because your dog may need some additional stimulation and support. As with any pet-related concern, a conversation with your veterinarian is an excellent place to start, here are some suggestions that might help alleviate some of the anxiety resulting in an unfavorable behavior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n