Puppy chewing plants

Mon Aug 01, 2011 11:41 pm

Hi,

So my family got a little puppy that is a few months old. So far this puppy has destroyed 2 sunflower plants, A dill plant, and ripped up a bunch of basil. This puppy is teething, other than watching the dog the entire time I don't know what to do. We have to let the dog out to go to the bathroom. I have some fencing around my garden. I have wooden stakes with twine all around it and it's about 18 inches high. The other dogs learned not to go in there, but this puppy has torn down the twine in some spots. He is small too about the size of a chihuahua.

I am going to repair the fencing but is there other things I can do to make sure this dog leaves my garden alone?

Tue Aug 02, 2011 5:11 pm

I feel your pain. I have an Australian Blue Heeler pup with lots of energy.

As far as the garden goes: I'd put down some cayenne pepper. Doing so should deter the pup. But you will have to reapply after it rains. You may be able to find a bulk source online. Also make sure to wash anything you may pick before eating it. Otherwise you may get a surprise! You can also try putting some moth balls down. But I don't know if your pup will try to eat them (which could make him sick).

As far as the pup goes: The best defense is a good offense. Make sure the pup is well exercised. Lots of running helps. I'd invest in a few good dog toys & tennis balls that you can regularly play fetch with. Doing so can tire him out which will mean he's less likely to get into mischief. When we let our pup out, I stand there until she's done. And I praise her when she finishes. I don't leave her unattended very often.

Hope this helps! Hang in there!

Tue Aug 02, 2011 6:48 pm

Here are some other discussions we've had on THG about Monster Pups in the Garden having their own, unauthorized plant-destroying parties. :roll:

http://www.helpfulgardener.com/forum/v ... 665#196665

http://www.helpfulgardener.com/forum/v ... 554#210554

http://www.helpfulgardener.com/forum/v ... sc&start=0

Maybe some of the suggestions in these discussions will work for you.

Cynthia H.
Sunset Zone 17, USDA Zone 9