Expert: Alan J Turner, SATS LL1 - 5/17/2007

Question
Why does our dog nibble on our sheets, pillows, and even our pajamas? She
does no damage, just nibbles and nibbles. She has plenty of chew toys and does
not nibble regular clothes or the sofa. We tell her to stop, but she just pauses
and keeps on nibbling!

Answer
Dear Meghan,
Thanks for the interesting question. Some dogs lick or nibble due to stress. It's the same reason some people bite their fingernails. It's a nervous habit. After some time, the behavior becomes automatic.


What precedes the behavior? Can you recognize any situations that cause her to nibble?

Instead of telling her to stop, try to get her involved in something else that makes it impossible for her to nibble. Find the treat, fetch and walks are a good way to exercise her mind and her body. Does she know any obedience commands. A training program based on a rewards system will help her to relax.

Here's another idea you can use to redirect her. Get a Kong, place a strip of duct tape over the small opening to seal it off. Place some treats, food inside. Add a tablespoon of chicken broth and water. Stand it upright in the freezer. It will freeze. Take it out, remove the tape and give it to her. She'll spend 20-30 minutes eating the goodies inside.

Alan J Turner

http://howsbentley.com