Place a high-value treat in one hand and a basic treat in the other. Make a fist with the hand holding the basic treat and let your pup sniff your fist. Say “leave it” and wait for them to finish sniffing. Say “yes” when they stop sniffing and give them the high-value treat. Repeat until your pup stops sniffing when you say “leave it. ” Toss the high-value treat outside of reach. Say “yes” when they reach the high-value treat. Repeat until you start noticing your pup moving away when you say “leave it. ”
Offer your pup a high-value toy. Let them play for a few seconds. Place a high-value treat in front of them. Pick up the toy and hide it behind your back as they eat the treat. Present the toy when they’ve finished eating and repeat. Say “drop it” when your pup starts dropping the toy when you show the treat. Keep repeating and then give the cue without showing treats.
Play fetch to tire your puppy out before they go outside. Fill a puzzle toy with treats or kibble to keep your puppy mentally stimulated. Find these toys online or try your hand at making your own. [8] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source
Kong and Nylabone toys are great distraction and active toys that give your pup something to chew and play with. [9] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Keep your pup’s age in mind when buying toys. Most packaging will suggest what age range the toy is best for. [10] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source
Chat with your vet to see what diet is best for your pup. Every dog and breed is different, and their diet depends on their genetics and day-to-day lives. Dog foods labeled “puppy food” will provide the important nutrients your puppy needs to grow. [12] X Research source
Buy an anti-chew spray or try making your own. To make your own spray, combine a 2:1 ratio of water and distilled white vinegar. Add 20 drops of an organic citrus essential oil like lemon or bergamot. [13] X Research source
Toss a few toys into their play area so they’re even less likely to chew on the pen’s bars or anything else they may find.
Help your pup grow out of their stone-eating habit with basic training. Teaching basic commands and tricks can help them mature into the best and brightest non-stone-eating dog.
