When it comes to adorable and friendly dog breeds, Irish Setters are usually top of mind. But as much as they bring joy to our homes, they can leave us frustrated when they develop habits that are, let’s say, less than endearing.
One of the most common issues Irish Setter owners face is the constant and insatiable need to chew on everything in sight. From shoes to furniture legs, these pups have a particular taste for anything that’s not meant for their jaws. But why do they do it?
Well, it turns out that chewing is an innate and extremely natural behavior for dogs – and Irish Setters are no exception. In fact, it’s often an indication of a happy and healthy pup. However, when it escalates into a destructive or dangerous habit, it might be time to investigate the underlying reasons behind it.
So, if you’re a frustrated Irish Red Setter owner wondering why your furry friend is chewing up your couch cushion, stick around to discover possible explanations for their behavior.
Irish Setters Breed Info
Before we dive in, let’s provide a brief overview of the breed. Irish Setters or Irish Red Setters were first bred in the 18th century to assist hunters with finding and retrieving games. This is why they are often referred to as “gun dogs.” With their natural energy and enthusiasm for retrieving objects, it’s easy to understand why this breed is so popular.
Today, Irish Setters are usually kept as energetic pets rather than hunting companions. They are gentle, intelligent dogs that love to stay active and require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They can make excellent family pets due to their outgoing personalities and friendly temperaments. However, it’s important to understand their needs to keep them from developing inappropriate behaviors.
Now that we know a bit more about this dog breed let’s explore possible reasons for their chewing habits.
Why Does My Irish Setter Chew Everything: Common Causes of Destructive Chewing
Have you ever come home to find your favorite pair of shoes turned into a chew toy? Or maybe your once-sturdy furniture now has tooth marks and scratches all over it? Though incredibly frustrating, it’s important to remember that destructive chewing is actually a common problem for Irish Setters (and all other dogs).
Therefore, you must understand why your pup is doing it to stop the destructive behavior. Here are some of the most common causes of chewing:
🐕 Boredom
Are you tired of constantly finding chewed-up shoes or furniture at home? Well, your Irish Setter might not be doing it out of spite or rebellion but simply because they’re bored! Yes, boredom is one of the most common causes of destructive chewing in Irish setters.
Think about it; you know that feeling when you’re stuck in a waiting room for hours with nothing to do but stare at the wall? That’s how your furry friend feels when they’ve been left alone for extended periods of time with no mental or physical stimulation. They’ll resort to chewing on anything they can get their paws on just to entertain themselves.
For example, you leave your Irish Setter at home while you go to work for several hours a day every day with no interactive toys or attention given. They’re going to get bored and start to find objects to chew on to keep them entertained.
So, next time you find your belongings in disarray, remember that it’s not your dog’s fault entirely; it’s just their way of telling you, “I’m bored; give me something to do, please!”
🐕 Stress and Separation Anxiety
Believe it or not, our pets can also feel the pressure of daily life and experience anxiety just like we do. When they become stressed or anxious, they may turn to chew as a way to cope with their overwhelming emotions. Similarly, when left alone for extended periods, they may feel anxious about being separated from their owners and may resort to chewing as a way to deal with their distress.
Let me give you an example; think of a time when you had to leave your furry friend alone at home while you ran some errands. Remember the guilt you felt while walking away from your little fur ball, even though you knew you would return soon.
Similarly, pets feel that sense of separation anxiety too, and because they can’t call or text us, they can cope with that stress by chewing on whatever is available to them.
🐕 Hunger
Another common cause of destructive chewing in this breed is hunger. I mean, think about it, if you’re hungry all the time, you’ll probably resort to eating anything you can get your paws on.
Irish setters are known for their high energy levels and fast metabolism, which means they need a lot of food to keep them going. If they’re not getting enough to eat, they’ll start looking for other sources of sustenance, like the legs of your dining room table. It’s just their way of trying to satisfy their never-ending hunger.
For example, your Setter might have gone on a long walk or played fetch with you for hours, and after that long day of physical activity, they need more food to fuel their body. So, if you come home late and they haven’t eaten since their morning meal, they might feel so hungry that they resort to destructive chewing.
🐕 Habit
Dogs are creatures of habit, and they tend to form patterns of behavior that they find enjoyable or rewarding. If your Irish Setter has gotten into the habit of chewing on certain objects, such as shoes or furniture, then they may continue to do so even when it becomes destructive. This habit can be hard to break, and redirecting their chewing behavior may take some time and effort.
For instance, imagine that your Irish Setter has a habit of chewing on their leash. They may have started doing this because they found it enjoyable or calming, and it quickly became a habit. Even when the leash becomes frayed or damaged, your dog may continue to chew on it simply because it has become a habit.
So, if you want to address destructive chewing in your Irish Setter, it’s important to consider the role of habit and how you can help your furry friend break this pattern of behavior.
🐕 Teething
Now, dogs, in general, are naturally curious creatures, and they love to explore their surroundings with their mouth. However, when they start teething, the urge to chew on anything and everything they lay their eyes on can become more intense.
Teething usually begins around the age of 3-4 months and lasts until the pup is around 7-8 months old. As the new teeth try to erupt through the gums, they can cause discomfort, itchiness, and soreness. In order to relieve these sensations, the growing setters may start chewing on objects that are not exactly meant for chewing or anything else they can get their paws on.
So, if you’re finding your young dog chewing on your favorite shoes, don’t worry; it’s probably just a teething phase that will soon pass.
Similarly, retained puppy teeth, which refer to baby teeth that did not fall out when the permanent teeth started to emerge, can also contribute to excessive chewing. The retained teeth put pressure on the gums and can cause discomfort, leading the pup to chew more than usual. So, if you notice any retained teeth, it’s best to take your furry friend to a vet who can extract them and ensure a smooth transition to permanent teeth.
How To Stop Your Irish Setter From Excessive Chewing
Fortunately, controlling your dog’s bothersome chewing activity is frequently pretty simple.
Combining the advice below is the best course of action. Your primary responsibility is to keep your dog away from harmful chews and meet their chewing and exercise requirements by providing suitable outlets.
✅ Providing Enough Exercise
One of the best ways to help stop this destructive behavior is by ensuring your pup is getting enough exercise. Regular exercise not only helps to tire out your Irish Setter but also provides a healthy outlet for all of their pent-up energy.
So how exactly can you make sure your pup is getting enough exercise? One great option is to take your Setter on daily walks or runs. This not only gives them physical activity but also allows them to explore new sights and smells – a major source of excitement for dogs. Another great option is to take your Irish Setter to a dog park or other open, safe space where they can run and play freely.
Overall, providing enough exercise for your Irish Setter is key to helping them develop positive habits and curb destructive chewing. So grab a leash and some running shoes, and get ready to explore with your furry friend!
✅ Giving Mental Stimulation
Now, you may be thinking that exercise alone will tire them out, but mental exercise is just as important for your furry friend. Irish Setters are intelligent dogs that require a lot of stimulation to prevent boredom from setting in. So, to keep them mentally stimulated, you can play games with them, teach them new tricks, or even hide treats for them to find.
One fun game to play is hiding treats throughout the house and letting them use their nose to find them. You can also try puzzle toys or play fetch with different objects to keep it interesting.
Don’t forget to praise them and reward them for their efforts. With consistent mental stimulation, your Irish Setter will be too busy thinking and playing to even think about chewing on your belongings.
✅ Providing Chew Toys
Irish Setters are active, energetic dogs with natural instincts to chew, but it doesn’t have to be on your belongings. Giving them appropriate chew toys will keep them occupied and satisfied, preventing destructive chewing.
Choosing the right chew toys for your Irish Setter is essential. Pick toys that are durable, non-toxic, and appropriate for your dog’s size and age. Rubber toys or those made from heavy-duty nylon can withstand strong jaws and offer a satisfying chew experience. You can even freeze some toys or add treats to make them more enticing.
Keep a variety of toys on hand and rotate them every few days to keep your dog engaged and entertained.
✅ Help Ease Separation Anxiety for Your Dog
The first step you can take is to create a calming environment for your dog when you leave the house. This can include playing soothing music, using a pheromone diffuser, or leaving a piece of clothing with your scent on it.
Another solution is to gradually increase your dog’s time alone to help them adjust to being apart from you. Start with short periods and slowly increase the time over several weeks.
Additionally, you can provide your Irish Setter with interactive toys and puzzles to keep them occupied while you’re away. This can help redirect their chewing behavior onto a more appropriate outlet. And don’t forget to reward your dog when they exhibit good behavior and refrain from destructive chewing.
✅ Dog Proofing
Make sure your pup doesn’t have access to anything they shouldn’t be chewing on. You can limit their destructive behavior without scolding or punishing them constantly.
Start by taking a walk around your home and identifying any potential hazards. Are there shoes left out in the open? Cords dangling from the back of your TV? Books or papers within reach? Put these items away in a closet or high-up shelf to keep them out of your pup’s reach.
It might take some time and effort, but by dog-proofing your home, you can help your Irish Setter feel less overwhelmed and less likely to engage in excessive chewing. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your pup is safe and happy in its surroundings!
✅ Consider Deterrents
One of the best solutions to this problem is to consider deterrents. These products are designed to steer your pup away from items you don’t want them to chew on, which can save you from costly furniture repairs.
So, how do you use deterrents? Well, it’s pretty simple. Firstly, you can start by picking items you want to protect and applying the deterrent spray or paste. These items can range from furniture legs, shoes, or even electrical cords. Once you’ve applied the deterrent, let it dry or settle. These products work by having an unappealing taste or smell, which your pup will avoid.
It’s important to note that some dogs may still chew despite the taste, but don’t get disheartened; you just need to be patient and persistent. Over time, your Irish Setter will learn that these items aren’t for chewing, and the need to chew excessively will reduce.
✅ Provide Nutrition-Dense Food
Most dog owners tend to overlook the importance of their pup’s diet when it comes to chewing behavior. Providing your Irish Setter with nutrient-dense food can provide them with all the necessary vitamins and minerals to meet their daily dietary requirements. And, when a dog’s dietary needs are satisfied, they are less likely to engage in destructive chewing behaviors.
But what exactly is nutrient-dense food? Simply put, it’s food that packs a punch in terms of providing your pup with all the necessary nutrients in just small portions. This means your Irish Setter can have smaller meals that satisfy them and provide them with all the energy and nourishment. In turn, this can make them less inclined to chew on items they shouldn’t.
✅ Using Training to Encourage Positive Chewing
Irish Setters can be strong-willed and stubborn but also highly intelligent. With proper guidance and training, you can teach your pup to focus their chewing behavior on appropriate items and discourage any bad habits.
Start by identifying when your dog is most likely to chew on your belongings, like after meals or during playtime. Whenever you catch them in the act, gently scold them with a firm “No” and replace whatever they’re trying to chew on with an appropriate chew toy. This will help your pup understand that certain items are for chewing and other objects are not.
Whenever your pup does chew on their toys, reward them with a treat or praise to reinforce the behavior. Eventually, they will learn to focus their destructive chewing on appropriate items.
✅ Never Use Punishment Tactics
Never use punishment tactics. Why, you ask? Punishing your pup for destructive chewing will only make things worse. Your dog won’t understand why they’re being punished, and it might even cause them to become anxious or fearful. This could lead to even more destructive behavior, and you definitely don’t want that.
So what should you do instead? Well, the first step is to identify the root cause of your pup’s chewing. Are they bored or anxious? Is there something they’re missing in their diet? Once you’ve pinpointed the cause, you can begin to address it.
Things You Should Give Your Irish Setter To Chew On
If you’re a first-time dog owner, it can be difficult to know what you should give your pup to chew on. To ensure that your pup doesn’t get their paws on any harmful items, here are some things you can give them instead:
🦮 Safe Options for Chew Toys
When it comes to chewing toys, it’s important to choose something that is safe for your dog to chew on. Here are some options:
- Rubber toys: Rubber toys are durable and can be filled with treats or peanut butter to provide some extra entertainment for your pup.
- KONG toys: KONG toys are made of strong, chew-resistant rubber and can also be filled with treats. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find one that works for your dog.
- Nylabone: Nylabone chew toys are made of a tough nylon material, which is great for dogs who like to chew aggressively. They come in different flavors and shapes to keep your pup interested.
🦮 Healthy Options for Chew Treats
In addition, to chew toys, you can also give your dog chew treats. However, it’s important to choose treats that are healthy and safe for your dog to eat.
- Rawhide chews: Rawhide chews are a popular option for dogs, but choosing a high-quality, natural rawhide chew that does not contain harmful chemicals is important.
- Bully sticks: Bully sticks are a single-ingredient chew treat made from beef muscle. They are high in protein and low in fat, making them a healthy option for your dog.
- Dental chews: Dental chews are designed to help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath. Look for dental chews made with natural ingredients that contain no artificial preservatives or flavors.
🦮 What to Avoid
There are also some things you should avoid giving your dog to chew on:
- Bones: Bones can splinter and cause serious health problems if ingested.
- Hard objects: Avoid giving your dog hard objects, such as rocks or sticks, as they can damage your dog’s teeth and cause choking.
- Toys with small parts: If a toy has small parts that can be easily chewed off, it can pose a choking hazard for your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do behavioral changes in older setters affect chewing habits?
It’s not uncommon for older setters to become a bit more hesitant when chewing on their toys or food. This can be due to several factors, such as dental disease, changes in their senses, or just plain old age. It’s important to keep an eye on your furry friend’s chewing behavior as it can impact their overall health and well-being. Making sure they have access to appropriate toys and keeping their teeth healthy can make all the difference in their chewing habits.
Q: Do these breed specific health concerns related to chewing?
Some breeds, like the Irish Setter, Gordon Setter, and English Setter, are prone to specific health concerns related to chewing. And no, it’s not just about the broken bits and pieces they leave in their wake (although those can definitely be a pain to clean up). From dental damage to digestive blockages, it’s important for owners to be aware of the potential risk factors – and to keep a close eye on their pup’s chomping habits. Because while we want to let our dogs be dogs, their health and safety should always be our top priority.
Q: Is pet health insurance good for my adult dog?
It may sound like an unnecessary expense, but believe us when we say it can be a total lifesaver! With pet insurance, you won’t have to worry about the cost of unexpected vet bills constantly. Having peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is protected in the event of an unexpected illness or injury is priceless. So, is pet health insurance good for your adult dog? The answer is a resounding YES! Don’t wait until it’s too late; invest in your dog’s future health today.
Q: What are the genetic predispositions that I should be aware of?
As a loving pet parent, you want to make sure you’re ahead of the game when it comes to any potential health issues that may arise in your furry friend. It’s important to be aware of any genetic predispositions that are common in Irish Setters, so you can help prevent or manage these issues before they become bigger problems down the line. Specifically, you should watch for elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, von Willebrands disease, and canine leukocyte adhesion deficiency. But don’t let these scary-sounding names freak you out! Your Irish Setter can live a long, happy, and healthy life with proper health care and caution.
Q: What does the Irish Setter Club of America recommend for proper chewing habits?
The Irish Setter Club of America has some serious recommendations regarding proper chewing habits. And why shouldn’t they? After all, chew toys can promote dental health, reduce anxiety, and even help your pup express innate desires. But it’s not just about any old chew toy, no, no, no. The club advises pet parents to go for durable and safe toys of the right size, texture, and material. It’s a serious business, folks, but seeing your Irish Setter happily gnaw on its toy is worth every penny spent on that chewy goodness!
Final Words
So, why does your Irish Setter chew everything? The answer may lie in their natural instincts. As a hunting breed, Irish Setters strongly need to chew and bite. In the wild, they would use their jaws to catch and kill prey and break apart bones to access the nutritious marrow. While your furry friend may not be hunting for their dinner anymore, those instincts still remain. Chewing and biting help relieve stress and anxiety and can keep them occupied when they’re bored.
But just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it’s okay to let them chew everything in sight! Your Irish Setter’s chewing habits can quickly turn destructive if left unchecked. So, encourage them to chew on appropriate toys and bones. You can also ensure they’re getting enough exercise and mental stimulation to help positively channel their excess energy. By finding the right outlets for their natural instincts, you can help your pup lead a happy, healthy, and chew-friendly life.
