How to Stop Your Dog from Chewing Everything When You're Gone

Is your dog turning your furniture into a personal chew toy while you're away? If you've ever come home to shredded cushions, gnawed table legs, or destroyed shoes, you’re not alone.

Many dog owners face this frustrating issue. But before you assume your dog is acting out of spite, let’s get one thing clear: It’s not payback. It’s boredom.

Dogs, especially high-energy working breeds, need a job. If you don’t give them one, they’ll create their own—usually in a way you won’t like.

So, how do you stop the destruction? By understanding their needs and providing the right outlets for their energy.

Understanding Why Dogs Chew

Dogs chew for a variety of reasons, but the most common ones include:

• Boredom: When left alone without mental or physical stimulation, dogs look for something to do. Chewing is an easy, self-rewarding activity.

• Anxiety or Stress: Some dogs chew to cope with separation anxiety. Destruction often happens soon after you leave.

• Lack of Exercise: A dog with too much pent-up energy will find a way to release it, and that often means tearing apart your belongings.

• Teething (for Puppies): Young dogs naturally chew to relieve teething pain and explore the world.

If your dog is chewing everything in sight, it’s a sign they aren’t getting enough stimulation. The solution? Drain their energy before you leave.

The 3-Step Plan to Prevent Destructive Chewing

1. Mental Work – Make Them Think

Dogs aren’t just physical creatures—they have active minds that need stimulation. The more they think, the more energy they burn. Before you leave, engage their brain with:

• Obedience Training: Run through basic commands like sit, down, stay, and recall. Keep sessions short but focused.

• Problem-Solving Tasks: Use puzzle toys or hide treats around the house for them to find.

• Marker Training: Reward behaviors with a quick game or praise, reinforcing engagement and focus.

When a dog has to work through a problem or obey a command, they burn mental energy—just like you would after a long meeting or an intense study session.

2. Physical Work – Tug-of-War Over Treats

Once their brain is engaged, it’s time to tire out their body. Many working breeds have a strong drive for physical engagement. Instead of relying solely on treats, use an active game like tug-of-war as a reward.

• Why Tug Works: It builds engagement, satisfies their natural prey drive, and gives them a controlled way to expend energy.

• Short and Effective: A few rounds of intense tug combined with training can drain more energy than a long, slow walk.

• Balance Matters: Combine structured tug games with obedience work to reinforce good behavior.

3. Exhaustion – Brain + Body = KO’d Dog

Once you’ve worked their brain and body, your dog should be tired. A drained dog is a relaxed dog. They’ll be in recovery mode, ready to sleep rather than destroy.

• Compare it to Humans: Imagine leaving a mentally draining meeting and immediately hitting the gym. By the end, all you want is to rest. Dogs experience the same thing when properly exercised.

• Chew-Proofing Tip: Provide appropriate chew toys, so if they do feel the need to chew, they pick the right things.

When you leave after this structured routine, your dog won’t be searching for things to destroy. They’ll be recovering, waiting for you to return.

What Not to Do

Many dog owners try quick fixes that don’t address the root cause. Here’s what doesn’t work:

🚫 Punishing After the Fact: Your dog won’t understand why they’re being scolded hours later. Punishment won’t stop future chewing.

🚫 Relying Solely on Chew Toys: While chew toys are great, they aren’t a solution by themselves. If your dog is still full of energy, a toy won’t stop them from finding other things to chew.

🚫 Crating Without Exercise: A crate can help prevent destruction, but if a dog is crated without being tired first, they’ll just become frustrated and anxious.

Watch This Method in Action!

For a step-by-step demonstration of how to stop your dog from chewing everything while you’re gone, watch my latest YouTube video below.

Final Thoughts

Your dog isn’t trying to make your life difficult. They’re just following their instincts. If they have extra energy and no outlet, they’ll use whatever is available—whether that’s a chew toy or your favorite couch.

By combining mental stimulation, physical work, and exhaustion, you’ll set your dog up for success. Train smarter, not harder. Address the root cause, and you’ll stop destructive chewing before it even starts.

- Marc Windgassen
No Drive… No Joy

#DogTraining #StopChewing #WorkingDogs #BalancedTraining

7 Lessons From Training 3,000+ Dogs

Most people think dog training is all about rewards.

It’s not.

Treats help, but they don’t build lasting obedience.

Structure, consistency, and leadership do.

After working with over 3,000 dogs, I’ve learned what really makes a difference.

Here are seven key lessons every dog owner should know:

1. A Dog Follows Clear Direction

If you don’t provide it, they’ll make their own rules. Dogs thrive on structure-without it, chaos takes over. Your job is to guide, not just react.

2. Timing is Everything

Reinforce good behavior the moment it happens. A second too late, and the dog won’t connect the action to the reward (or correction).

Precision makes training faster and more effective.

3. Simple Beats Complicated

Fancy tricks mean nothing if your dog won’t come when called. Master the basics first-sit, down, recall, leash walking. A reliable dog is far more valuable than a showy one.

4. Confidence Transfers

A nervous handler creates a nervous dog. If you hesitate, they will too. If you panic, they will escalate. Calm, confident leadership makes all the difference.

5. Repetition Builds Reliability

A dog doesn’t “know” a command after five tries. True training is about consistent practice over time. If you want a solid recall or a reliable sit-stay, put in the reps.

6. Human Emotions Don’t Train Dogs

Guilt, frustration, or sympathy won’t teach a dog what’s right or wrong. Clear, consistent feedback does. Keep emotions out of the equation and focus on communication.

7. Leadership is Earned

Dogs don’t follow requests-they follow leaders. Leadership isn’t about dominance. It’s about consistency, clarity, and setting boundaries. If you don’t lead, your dog will fill the gap.

Final Thoughts

If you’re struggling with training, chances are it’s not about the dog-it’s about how you’re leading. Training isn’t just about commands; it’s about relationship, trust, and consistency.

Which of these lessons do you need to focus on most? Comment down below ⬇️

-Marc Windgassen

No Drive… No Joy

Stop Your Dog from Jumping – Fast and Easy Fixes

Your dog keeps jumping on you, guests, or strangers? Annoying, right? The good news is, you can stop this fast without yelling, shoving, or getting frustrated.

Here’s how to fix it step by step:

1. Reward Sitting Instead of Jumping

Dogs jump to get attention. But what if they learned sitting gets them what they want instead?

✔️ When your dog sits, reward them with food, a toy, or praise.

✔️ Ignore jumping. Zero attention, no eye contact, no petting.

✔️ Be consistent. Reward sitting every single time.

Your dog will figure it out:

Sitting = attention.

Jumping = nothing.

2. Ignore & Step Forward

✔️ If your dog jumps, don’t react. No words, no eye contact.

✔️ Take a small step forward into them.

✔️ This throws them off balance. And dogs hate losing balance.

✔️ Without a reward, they’ll drop the habit fast.

3. Use a Leash Correction

If your dog is on a leash and jumps, use a quick leash correction:

✔️ A gentle sideways tug. Just enough to interrupt the behavior.

✔️ This isn’t about punishing the dog. It’s about breaking the pattern.

✔️ Follow up by rewarding calm behavior.

4. Step on the Leash

✔️ If your dog jumps, they shouldn’t be able to launch up freely.

✔️ Keep the leash short enough so that when they try to jump, they feel resistance.

✔️ They’ll self-correct because jumping stops being fun.

5. Catch & Reward Good Behavior

✔️ Notice your dog sitting calmly without being told? Reward them!

Dogs repeat what works for them. Make sitting their best option.

Final Thoughts: Stay Consistent

✔️ Reward what you want ✅
✔️ Ignore what you don’t ❌

Dogs are simple. If jumping stops getting them what they want, they’ll quit. If sitting gets them all the rewards? That’s what they’ll choose.

Stick with it. You’ll see results fast.

Need More Help? Want expert guidance? Book a session and get your dog trained right.

Marc Windgassen
No Drive... No Joy

Why Won’t Your Dog Stop Barking? Here’s What You Need to Know

Dogs bark. It’s normal. But when it becomes non-stop, it’s a problem.

So why won’t your dog stop? Let’s break it down.

5 Common Reasons for Excessive Barking

1️⃣ Boredom
Dogs need stimulation. A dog with nothing to do will find ways to entertain itself—including barking. If your dog is barking for no apparent reason, boredom is a likely cause.

2️⃣ Anxiety (General or Separation Anxiety)
Stress leads to barking. Whether it’s general anxiety or separation anxiety, an anxious dog will bark to release pent-up tension. If your dog starts barking the moment you leave, separation anxiety could be the issue.

3️⃣ Attention-Seeking Behavior
Dogs are smart. If barking gets them attention, they’ll keep doing it. If you react every time your dog barks, they learn that barking works.

4️⃣ Fear
Loud noises, unfamiliar people, or sudden movements can scare dogs. Their instinct? Barking.

5️⃣ Excitement
Some dogs can’t contain their energy. They see another dog, hear their leash jingle, or get hyped about mealtime—cue the barking.

The Solution? Fix the Cause, Not the Noise

Trying to stop barking without addressing the root cause is pointless. Instead, tackle the real issue:

✅ Boredom Barking? → Increase mental and physical stimulation. Play engagement games, introduce puzzle toys, and ensure regular exercise.

✅ Separation Anxiety? → Work on desensitization. Leave for short periods and gradually extend the time. Keep departures and arrivals low-key.

And most importantly…
CRATE TRAIN YOUR DOG!

✅ Attention-Seeking Barking? → Ignore it. Reward quiet behavior instead.

✅ Fear-Based Barking? → Identify the trigger and help your dog build confidence around it with positive reinforcement.

✅ Excitement Barking? → Teach impulse control. Reward calm behavior, not overexcitement.

Final Thoughts

Barking is a symptom, not the problem. Fix the cause, and the barking stops. Focus on engagement, confidence-building, and consistency. Your dog isn’t just barking to annoy you… they’re communicating. It’s your job to listen and address the real issue.

– Marc Windgassen

No Drive... No Joy.

Still can’t fix your dog’s excessive barking? Book a consultation with me here ⬅️

Why First-Time Dog Owners Should Think Twice Before Getting a Rottweiler

This is an image of my Rottweiler named Force, taken by Michael Windgassen

Rottweilers are undoubtedly magnificent dogs, known for their strength, loyalty, and intelligence. However, they are not the best choice for first-time dog owners. Here’s why:

1. High Training and Socialization Needs

Rottweilers require extensive training and early socialization. From the moment they come home, they need consistent and structured training sessions. They thrive on routine and need to be taught how to behave in various situations. This isn't a one-time effort but a continuous process that demands dedication and patience.

2. Behavioral Changes

In the first three years of their lives, Rottweilers go through significant behavioral changes. These changes require a keen understanding of dog behavior and an ability to adapt training methods accordingly. Without this knowledge, managing a Rottweiler can become overwhelming.

3. Physical Strength and Control

Rottweilers are powerful dogs. If you’re not accustomed to handling large breeds, walking a Rottweiler in public can be a challenge. They can be headstrong and require a firm yet gentle hand to guide them. Without proper control, situations can quickly become difficult to manage, especially around other dogs or distractions.

4. Exploiting Weaknesses

Rottweilers have a knack for sensing and exploiting their owner's weaknesses. If you’re inconsistent or unsure in your training methods, they will pick up on this and may become difficult to handle. Establishing yourself as a confident and knowledgeable leader is crucial, and this can be particularly challenging for first-time dog owners.

5. Risk of Aggression

A poorly trained and socialized Rottweiler can pose a risk of aggression, particularly if they suddenly sense a change in their owner's behavior. If a Rottweiler hasn’t experienced firm and consistent leadership in its early years, attempting to assert dominance later on can lead to growling or worse. It’s essential to establish boundaries and leadership from day one.

Conclusion

Owning a Rottweiler can be incredibly rewarding for those who are well-prepared and experienced. However, for first-time dog owners, the demands of this breed might be too great. It’s important to honestly assess your ability to meet these needs before bringing a Rottweiler into your home. If you’re looking for a more manageable breed to start your dog-owning journey, consider a breed that better suits a beginner's lifestyle and capabilities.

Rottweilers are wonderful companions for the right owner, but they require experience, knowledge, and a commitment to continuous training. Think carefully and choose wisely.

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If you’ve read this blog and still unsure as to whether the Rottweiler is the right breed for you and your family, book a breed consultation with me by visiting my appointments page.

How to Potty Training Your Dog: A German’s Guide

Welcome to the realm of dog parenting, a journey filled with laughter, joy, and the unavoidable task of potty training your furry companion. Let's dive into the world of dog potty training, sprinkled with a pinch of German humor to lighten the mood.

After all, as we say in Germany, “Everything has an end, only the sausage has two”. So, let's aim for a happy ending without stepping into any unwanted surprises along the way.

Step 1: Choose the Potty Spot Like You're Choosing a Beer

First things first, where is your Hund going to do its business? If you're nestled in an apartment, perhaps a wee wee pad in a discreet corner is your go-to. It's like choosing a light beer for a cozy night in. Living in a house with a yard? Then it's outdoors for your pooch, akin to selecting a hearty lager for a garden party. Choose wisely; your dog's potty spot is its kingdom.

Step 2: Establishing a Routine or How to Make Your Dog a Fan of German Efficiency

Germans love their schedules and efficiency, and so will your dog. Establishing a routine is crucial. Think of it like setting up a train schedule, but instead of trains, it's potty breaks. You'll need a timetable, intervals, and perhaps a crate for added structure. A well-organized routine is like a well-tuned orchestra, each potty break a symphony of success.

Step 3: The Crate: A Cozy Retreat or the Canine's Castle

Why fuss about the crate? Well, imagine it as your dog's personal castle, where it can rest without causing mischief. After all, a sleeping puppy can't possibly terrorize your electrical wires. It's like giving your dog its own cozy beer garden, minus the beer, of course. Safety first!

Step 4: The Art of Praise or How to Make Your Dog Feel Like a Bavarian King

After each successful potty venture, shower your puppy with praise. It's like cheering for your favorite football team after a goal. Remember, there's always a sequel to the pee—expect a poop performance shortly after. Be ready to applaud their encore!

Step 5: Play, Nap, Repeat: The Secret Sauce

Between potty breaks, engage in playtime and then guide your puppy to nap time. It's the rhythm of life—like Oktoberfest, but for puppies. Play is the festivity, and the crate-nap is the peaceful retreat afterward. This cycle ensures your puppy grows up balanced, much like a well-rounded character in a German fairy tale.

Step 6: Nighttime Strategy: The Final Frontier

To conquer the night, think like a night watchman in a quaint German town. Take your puppy out late in the evening and early in the morning, minimizing accidents and maximizing success. It's about creating a sense of Sicherheit (security) for your puppy to thrive.

Conclusion: The Journey to Potty Training Success

By now, your dog should be on its way to becoming a potty-trained marvel, ready to impress with its impeccable manners. Remember, patience is key, as is a sense of humor. After all, if a dog learns that pretending to pee earns praise, you've not only succeeded in training but also discovered your dog's hidden comedic talent.

So, embrace the journey with a smile, and before you know it, you'll be enjoying the bliss of a potty-trained dog, leaving you free to worry about more important things—like whether to have Bratwurst or Knackwurst for dinner. Prost to your success!

Your Dog Doesn't Respect You and Here's Why

Ever felt like your furry companion treats you more like a lenient landlord than a respected leader? Well, you're not alone in this canine conundrum. Here's a gentle, albeit slightly Germanic-humor infused nudge towards understanding why your dog doesn't tip its hat in respect to you. Spoiler: It's not because they're plotting to take over your household (or are they?).

The Boundary Bonanza

First and foremost, let's talk boundaries. Imagine living with someone who never tells you the rules of the house. You'd probably end up lounging on the sofa with your feet on the coffee table, right? That's your dog, minus the coffee table etiquette. Without clear boundaries, your dog is metaphorically flipping channels with the remote you never told them they couldn't use.

"But my dog adores me!" you protest, as your four-legged friend lavishes you with kisses after a day of unfettered chaos. Love, dear reader, is not the issue here. Respect is a different kettle of fish—or in this case, a different bag of treats. Your dog can love you to the moon and back, but without understanding what's expected, they'll be the one calling the shots. And not in a cute "Who's a good boy?" way, but in a "I run this house" manner.

When Push Comes to Shove

Dogs, much like humans, test boundaries. They push to see how much they can get away with, waiting for a pushback. Imagine a world where everyone said "yes" to everything. Chaos, right? That's the world your dog lives in without boundaries. Now, don't get us wrong. We're not advocating for a doggie dictatorship; no need for harshness. But a firm "Nein" (that's "No" for our non-German-speaking friends) can go a long way.

The Affection Cheat Code

Ever heard of the affection cheat code? No, it's not a secret level in a video game. It's a concept coined by dog trainer Sean O'Shea (thegooddogway.com). The gist? Set boundaries and enforce them, and your dog's love for you will skyrocket. Think of it as the difference between being a beloved leader versus an indulgent pushover. Your dog craves structure. By providing it, you unlock levels of affection previously unseen, without compromising on cuddles.

The Path to Respect

So, how do you earn your dog's respect without turning into a drill sergeant? It's simpler than you might think:

●  Consistency is Key: Just like you wouldn't wear socks with sandals (a fashion faux pas universally recognized), ensure your dog understands the household rules are non-negotiable.

●  Teach with Love: Correction doesn't mean retribution. It's guidance. A gentle tug on the leash, a firm but loving "no," or even positioning yourself as the barrier between your dog and the tantalizingly chewable couch corner—it all sets the stage for respect.

●  Be the Leader: Remember, being a leader isn't about instilling fear. It's about showing the way. And in this case, it's showing the way to a harmonious living situation where your slippers remain intact.

In conclusion, setting boundaries doesn't just pave the way for a well-behaved dog; it's the foundation of a respectful and loving relationship. Fear not, dear reader. The journey to mutual respect and understanding is filled with laughter (of the dry, German variety), love, and the occasional stolen sock. But with patience and guidance, your dog will not just see you as the provider of treats, but as the respected leader of the pack.

Remember, a dog that knows its boundaries is a happy dog. And a happy dog makes for an even happier human. So, here's to less roommate chaos and more respectful companionship. No drive, no joy, and definitely no unsolicited sofa takeovers.

Silencing the Noise: A Complete Guide to Reducing Excessive Barking in Dogs

Hello, dedicated dog owners and welcome back to Dogpoint.pet! Today's topic is one many of you have inquired about: excessive barking. It's a common canine behavior that can range from mildly annoying to downright disruptive. But fear not, we've got you covered with comprehensive strategies to address this issue effectively.

Understanding Excessive Barking:

Excessive barking in dogs can stem from a variety of reasons: alerting to danger, expressing excitement, seeking attention, or even responding to environmental triggers. It's important to understand the 'why' behind the bark to effectively address the 'how' to reduce it.

In-Depth Look at Causes and Types of Barking:

Different barks serve different purposes. There's alert barking, territorial barking, fear-based barking, and more. Each type requires a specific approach. Identifying the cause is key, whether it’s due to external stimuli, boredom, or anxiety.

Real-Life Scenario:

A Picture of a Jack Russel Terrier

Imagine Sam, a spirited Jack Russell Terrier, whose barking has become a neighborhood concern. He barks at every passerby, every squirrel, and even at the wind. His owners are at their wits' end trying to manage this behavior.

Strategies to Reduce Barking:

1. Understanding the Trigger: Identifying what sets off your dog’s barking is the first step. Is it a response to seeing other dogs, strangers, or a specific situation?

2. Training and Commands: Training your dog to understand commands like "Quiet" or "Enough" can be incredibly effective.

3. Environmental Management: Sometimes, modifying your dog’s environment can reduce barking triggers.

4. Mental and Physical Stimulation: A bored dog is more likely to bark. Ensuring your dog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation can help curb excessive barking.

FAQs Section:

- Q: Is it possible to stop my dog from barking completely?

- A: Barking is a natural dog behavior, so the goal is to reduce excessive barking, not eliminate it entirely.

- Q: Should I use bark collars or other deterrents?

- A: While some may opt for devices like bark collars, it's important to understand their pros and cons.

Addressing excessive barking takes time and patience. In some cases, consulting a

Conclusion:

Managing excessive barking is a journey that requires understanding, consistency, and patience. Remember, every dog is different, and finding the right solution might take time. Stick with it, and trust that your efforts will lead to a more peaceful home. For ongoing tips and support, Dogpoint.pet is always here to help you and your barking buddy!

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