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How to stop my puppy from destroying things when left alone?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shiba Inu | Male | unneutered | 8 months and 10 days old | 28 lbs

Hey so I have a problem with Hachi where when I let him out for the day I would have to always follow him and keep an eye on him because he tries to eat and destroy things.And because of this I would have to lock him up whenever I can't watch him.What can I do in order for me to not be required to keep an eye on him and let him do his own thing?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 1st, 2018

I see that Hachi is still just a puppy, only 8 months old. It's normal for him to still need a lot of supervision at this age, just like a human toddler. This will improve as he gets older, but for now, you need to continue watching him closely and confining him in a puppy-proofed area when you aren't able to supervise.

Providing him with plenty of his own things to chew on (bully sticks, rawhide chews, puzzle toys such as a Kong stuffed with peanut butter, etc.) will also help, but mostly it's just a matter of time and maturity. Many dogs are at least 1-2 years old before they can be trusted to be loose in the house without someone watching them, so be patient.
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