My corgi has an obsession with chewing my carpet

Ok I am not sure if it is because she is teething or bored or what, but my dog will not stop chewing and tearing up my carpet in the house. I leave her with the other dog in the living room/kitchen area and close off the bedrooms. They have plenty of toys, and I read somewhere that she may have separation anxiety so I left a t shirt I dont wear that has my scent on it, but she wont stop. I hate to crate her during the day while im at work, but I afraid im going to have to if she doesnt stop. Any ideas of something I can do to stop this behavior?

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Permalink Reply by alynne on June 22, 2008 at 3:31am

maybe pen off an area and put down plastic or something other than carpet that way she still has room to play but cant chew the carpet.. neeka did that too..she kind of grew out of it.

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Permalink Reply by mikonami on June 22, 2008 at 3:41am

I use bitter apple spray from Petsmart. Mei used to chew on my walls and doors, but once I started using this it all stopped. I think I've also seen some kind of powder made just for the carpet.

Here's the spray:
http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2754400

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Permalink Reply by Adam & Brittany on June 22, 2008 at 10:51pm

I agree, we use bitter apple spray as well (someone recommended it on another mycorgi forum!) and it works great.

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Permalink Reply by Sam on June 22, 2008 at 6:59pm

I suspect the case is boredom and a behavior that has now become a habit. Not sure how old your dog is but I suspect a young one. Corgis are a herding breed that need exercise for the mind and body. Often times filling these requirements will erase boredom type behaviors. I would suggest a good outlet for the energies before you go to work, some interactive toys (ones that maybe she has to figure out) and a bit more confinement when you are gone. Make sure she does not have access to the carpet where she has been chewing. I would consider a training class as well as a scheduled outlet for her in the evening. Some dogs require far more than others.

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Permalink Reply by Cindi on June 23, 2008 at 10:34am

Sam is right on target. If a herding dog is left to their own devices with no outlet for their energy, you can bet some kind of destructive behavior will follow. There are two things that must become a part of your daily routine with your pup.

1) Your dog needs ample play time. Grab a ball or a frisbee and have a blast. Remember, play increases energy.
2) Your dog needs ample walk time. Take the leash and get moving. A good, long walk is absolutely necessary. Walking decreases energy.

Your dog needs both. This will both exercise his body and free his mind. You will find that many destructive behaviors become extinct if your pup gets the right amount of exercise and walking.