When you bring that new Jack Russell home allow
him to mouth, chew, and yes even destroy his toys. That is the
reason dog toys were created. If you don't like spending money on
them you should have considered that factor before getting a dog.
If you are still worried about the expense, buy cheaper toys. He
will kill these toys that are why it's fun. Allow him to mouth
cold, wet, or frozen towels especially in the teething stages.
Allow him to mouth his canine playmates. Remember that mouthing is
okay, biting is different. Mouthing should not hurt the other
animal, should not draw blood, and should not be done by your dog
in a way in which he appears angry or snarling.
When he mouths things that are unacceptable
there are different methods you can try such as spraying bitter
apple or dishwashing soap mixed with water onto the objects he is
chewing (and also on your arms and hands, if he is mouthing you).
He's not stupid, if it tastes bad and he learns that it
consistently tastes bad, soon he'll have no desire to have it in
his mouth. Provide a substitute activity such as handing him a
chew toy that he may mouth and then playing with him. Playtime
should be used as a reward for mouthing and chewing the
appropriate items.
If your dog communicates with you by
growling in your presence you may need to work on building up
trust with the animal. Teach him by showing that nothing bad
happens when you gently roll him on his back. As a matter of fact,
when he rolls on his back, give him little pieces of dried liver
treats or small dog biscuits. Act happy and pleasant when he
behaves appropriately with you. When he growls scrunch up your
face and snarl. Dogs read our bodies much better than they
understand our words.
