Is it okay to give your pup some wood?

[Rica + Margot]

Margot's currently teething and wants to chew wood. She has plenty of appropriate toys to chew on - just not the wood variety. I've also sprayed apple cider vinegar the wood, but I can't really spray every single spot multiple times a day. Instead of having her chew our furniture or baseboards(!), I decided to see if giving her a piece of plain, untreated wood to help. I'm hoping she'll want to stop chewing wood inside the home once she's done teething. I do let her chew sticks outside. I've given her ice, iced towels, antlers, nylabones, soft toys, rope toys, etc., but I'm welcome to your suggestions and opinions. I'm wondering if there's anything I should be concerned about healthwise or behaviorwise by doing this.

[Lisa Koch]

I'm not sure that is the best idea. First off it is reinforcing chewing on wood. Second she could get splinters stuck in her throat and that would not be good. Very uncomfortable and harmful to her health. I would give her some antlers or big bones to chew on. Maybe a kong with some peanut butter in it but I would stay away from giving your dog wood to chew on. It also can't be good for the teeth and gums. I know she's teething but I would still be worried about her gums.

[Gayle & Hunter]

I feel like Lisa what this does is reinforces bad behavior....our trainer told us when Hunter goes for something he shouldn't you need to automatically replace it with something that is his. It does require lots of patience but she will get there. She is adorable...good luck!

[Rica + Margot]

Thank you both! It totally makes sense. I'm not sure why I didn't see it as an inappropriate behavior. I think I just sympathized with her teething since I just went to the dentist! No more wood at home for this girl.

[Robin & Josie]

I would also add that my neighbor had a dog that choked and died from a stick outside. I don't know how common this is, but I have been very cautious about sticks ever since I heard that story...

[Jill, Woody & Maxi]

I agree with the others, and would like to add that wood can be very dangerous if it is splintered off and swallowed, and it can an obstruction or perforate the intestines..both which can be deadly.

Good luck getting through this teething stage..it'll all be over soon!

[Rica + Margot]

I'm so glad I asked! We're doing a bit better today. I've been redirecting her with a game or nap time!