Dog Chewing and Biting Behaviors

Chewing and biting are natural behaviors for dogs but they can become problematic when the chewing either becomes destructive or excessive. The reasons for poor chewing behaviors usually boil down to health, behavioral, or psychological issues.

Dog biting base of tail but no fleas or ticks

Here are a few common reasons for dogs that bite the base of their tail (even if there are no signs of fleas and other parasites).

Puppy doesn't chew, only swallows

Here’s what you should do next if your puppy doesn’t chew and only swallows his food.

Dog gently mouths your hand

Here are a few common reasons that may explain why a dog would gently mouth your hand.

When dogs don't chew their food

Dogs that don’t chew their food put themselves at great health risk.

When puppies chew the metal crate bars

It’s important to stop a puppy from chewing through the crate bar due to the risk of injuries.

When dogs chew and eat plants

Dogs that may chew and eat plants due to harmless or harmful reasons. As curious animals, it’s in their nature to chew objects to get a better sense of the world around them.

When dog chews your hands

The intent of chewing and licking an owner’s hand is usually harmless. It could be a sign of affection, play, and grooming.

When dogs chew and eat underwear

The gross and sweaty state of used underwear might have just made your dog’s dream come true.

When dogs chew on everything

When dogs start to chew on everything (aka destructive chewing), you know there is a problem.

When dogs chew their paws

An underlying health issue may cause dogs to chew their paws and feet.

When dogs chew wood and wooden sticks

Dogs may simply like the natural taste of wood. Sticks also resemble the shape of a dog’s favorite object, the bone.

When dogs bite their nails

Nail-biting is a behavior you want to prevent as fast as you can. It could eventually lead to bleeding if the biting becomes too excessive.

When dogs chew and suck on a blanket

Some dogs show a tendency to chew or suck on soft materials like blankets. This behavior goes back to natural instincts.

When dogs bite while you try to pet them

You shouldn’t always assume that your dog is being aggressive towards you when they try to bite while you pet them. This behavior could be triggered by causes that makes the dog feel vulnerable.

When dogs chew and eat rocks

Rock chewing and eating can become a serious health threat as the rocks can cause obstruction in the dog’s digestive tract.

When dogs chew their tail until it bleeds

Tail-chewing could be a result of boredom or health-related issues that’s creating discomfort and pain in the area.