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

Dog Parks Are a Disaster for Your Dog

Dog parks seem like a great idea.

An open space for dogs to run, play, and socialize. But the reality? They do more harm than good. Here’s why:

1. No Control = High Risk

Dog parks are a free-for-all. You can’t predict who or what will be there.

• Untrained dogs + clueless owners = chaos.

• Aggressive dogs? You won’t know until it’s too late.

• Bad habits spread fast—especially when there’s no control.

What to do instead: Don’t assume a dog park is a safe space. Choose semi-controlled environments where you can manage interactions.

2. One Bad Experience Can Undo Months of Training

All it takes is one bad encounter to change your dog’s behavior for the worse.

• A fight at the park can turn your dog reactive for life.

• If you’ve put in time training a rescue dog, one negative experience can erase months of progress.

• Dogs don’t need more socialization; they need quality socialization.

What to do instead:

Be picky about socialization. Set up controlled playdates with dogs and owners you trust.

Socialization is not just about your dog meeting other dogs.

It’s about exposing your dog to:

• New environments

• New sights

• New scents

• New sounds

• New people

3. Health & Safety Risks Are Real

Dog parks aren’t just playgrounds—they’re breeding grounds for illness and injury.

• Parasites, bacteria, and viruses spread easily.

• Many parks are poorly maintained, increasing the risk of infection.

• Dogs can pick up bad behaviors—like excessive rough play or guarding.

Why avoiding dog parks works:

• You skip expensive vet bills.

• Your dog stays healthy.

• You prevent unnecessary training setbacks.

The Bottom Line

Dog parks create more problems than they solve. If you want a well-balanced, social dog, focus on controlled environments where you can guide their interactions.

Stay smart. Train with intention.

Follow me for real, effective dog training advice.

— Marc Windgassen
No Drive... No Joy.

How to Crate Train Your Dog: Quick and In-Depth Guide

Crate training your dog is a valuable skill that can make a world of difference in your dog's behavior and your peace of mind.

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to successfully crate train your dog, ensuring they feel comfortable, safe, and happy in their crate.

Watch the Step-by-Step Video Guide

Before diving into the detailed instructions, I recommend watching the video below, which visually demonstrates each step of the crate training process. This video will give you a clear idea of what to expect and how to execute each step effectively.

The Basics of Crate Training

Crate training starts with building trust and making the crate a positive and enjoyable space for your dog. Here’s a quick rundown of the initial steps:

1. Introducing the Crate: Begin by placing some food at the entrance of the crate. Your dog will naturally approach, sniff, and eat the food while keeping all four feet outside the crate.

   Gradually, you can toss food further inside the crate, encouraging your dog to step in with their front paws.

2. Building Confidence: Over time, increase the distance of the food placement inside the crate.

   At this stage, it’s crucial not to close the gate. The dog must learn that the crate is a safe place, and they can exit whenever they choose.

   This freedom builds trust.

3. Extending Crate Time: Once your dog is comfortable going in and out, you can start closing the gate briefly while they are inside eating.

   Start with just a few seconds, and gradually extend the time. Continue to reinforce the experience positively by feeding them while the gate is closed.

4. Teaching Commands: Every time your dog enters the crate, say the word “crate.” Over time, this will become a command that your dog will respond to automatically.

   Additionally, teach your dog to sit and wait for your command before exiting the crate.

   This ensures your dog does not rush out, which could be dangerous in certain situations, such as at the vet's office or when in the back of a pickup truck.

Advanced Crate Training Techniques

Once your dog is comfortable with the basics, you can advance to the next level of crate training:

• Increase Duration:

  Gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in the crate with the gate closed.

  Start with short periods and extend them as your dog becomes more comfortable.

• Decrease Feeding Frequency:

  Initially, you’ll be feeding your dog frequently while they’re in the crate.

  As they become more accustomed to it, start extending the intervals between feedings.

  Eventually, your dog should feel relaxed in the crate even without the immediate presence of food.

• Random Rewards:

  Occasionally, place food in the crate when your dog isn’t watching.

  This makes the crate a “magic box” where food randomly appears, further encouraging your dog to enter the crate willingly and spend time there.

The Benefits of Crate Training

1. Crate training offers numerous benefits for both you and your dog. It provides a safe space for your dog, helps with house training, and can make travel or visits to the vet much easier.

2. A well-crate-trained dog will see the crate as a positive place and may even seek it out on their own to rest or relax.

3. By following these steps, you can ensure that your dog feels secure and happy in their crate.

4. Remember, patience and consistency are key.

5. Over time, your dog will come to see the crate as their own personal haven.

Conclusion

Crate training is a gradual process that requires patience, but the results are well worth the effort.

With the right approach, your dog will not only accept the crate but also come to love it as a safe and comfortable space.

Whether you're starting with a puppy or an adult dog, these techniques can help you achieve a successful crate training experience.

Comment your thoughts down below as I’m curious to know how crate training has or hasn’t worked for you. What has your experience been?

For more in-depth tips and personalized guidance, subscribe to my newsletter or feel free to reach out for a consultation.

Happy training!

Reflecting on My Radio Interview with Adrian Hackshaw on Freedom 106.5FM

Marc Windgassen (left) and Adrian Hackshaw (right)

Last Wednesday, I had the privilege of being interviewed on Freedom 106.5FM, a prominent radio station here in Trinidad and Tobago. The interview was conducted by the vibrant Adrian Hackshaw, known on Instagram as @basstnt3000, during his popular segment "Betterments with Bass." It was a remarkable experience, allowing me to share my insights on dog training, ownership, and handling various breeds, including Malinois, Mastiffs, Pit Bulls, and Rottweilers.

The Importance of Proper Dog Care

We kicked off the discussion with a crucial point that Adrian highlighted: dogs need more than just basic care. As he aptly put it, “A dog needs a lot of care. Even though I have a dog at home and sometimes when you're leaving home, you just look so sad.” This sentiment set the tone for our conversation about the depth of commitment required in dog ownership.

Engaging with Your Dog

One of the key topics we dove into was the concept of engagement. Dogs thrive on mental stimulation and active engagement with their owners. I explained, “Engagement games could be a little tug of war, a game of fetch, or giving your puppy food when it makes eye contact with you.” These activities not only keep dogs mentally active but also strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner.

Adrian was keen to learn more about specific training techniques. He asked, “When you say training, I mean, training them in terms of, you know, a lot of people like to have their dogs in the home.” I responded, “Everything. So from potty training, teaching dogs engagement so that they want to actually work for their owner and get mental stimulation out of that. And you get the cooperation that way.”

Training for Different Needs

Our discussion then shifted to the different needs of dogs based on their roles. For instance, basic obedience is essential for all dogs, but those kept for protection require more advanced training. As I mentioned, “If it is that you have a dog to also protect the home, then you have to get a lot more control into your dog so that you can control a large dog, even in public.”

Adrian inquired about the importance of getting dogs from a young age. “Is it important to get the dogs from a puppy, instead of an adult dog?” he asked. I explained, “Yes, it is easier to deal with a dog from puppy. But before you even get there, you have to consider what breed do I want? What breed suits my lifestyle?”

Choosing the Right Breed

One crucial aspect of dog ownership is choosing the right breed to match your lifestyle. “If you're somebody that is working 10 hours a day, you should probably not get a Belgian Malinois because you would not have time for a dog like this,” I advised. It's vital to select a breed that aligns with your daily routine and energy levels to ensure both you and your dog can lead a happy, balanced life.

Adrian added, “What about space for a dog? Bigger dogs need space. It’s not good to have them too choked up, like some people might have a dog in a kennel right through.” I agreed, “A dog that you want for protection can do absolutely nothing for you in a kennel. If your plan is to put the dog in a kennel, you can get a small breed that makes noise and alerts you that there is somebody.”

Socialization and Family Dynamics

Socialization is another critical factor in dog training. A well-socialized dog is less likely to exhibit aggressive behaviors. I emphasized, “It is your responsibility to train the dog for those things. It is not the groomer's responsibility.” Proper socialization from a young age helps dogs adapt to various environments and people, reducing the risk of problematic behaviors.

Adrian asked about introducing larger dogs into a household with smaller dogs. “How does that work?” he queried. I responded, “If the introductions are done correctly, generally it is not a huge issue. Dogs don't really care too much about size the way we do. It's more about attitude than anything else.”

Addressing Common Concerns

We also tackled common concerns, such as the fear surrounding certain breeds like Pit Bulls. “Pit Bulls can be really good dogs, they can be really good family dogs. I personally had one, just to prove it, and it was my son's age,” I shared. Proper training and understanding of a dog's genetic background play a significant role in shaping their behavior.

Adrian brought up an interesting point, “Now people are usually scared of the Pit Bulls. You know, dangerous dogs. But where do you stand with Pit Bulls?” I explained, “It depends on the genetics. Pit Bulls can be really good dogs but there's also a gene that some carry, which produces an unwillingness to give up. And so once they bite, they don't stop.”

Practical Training Tips

Adrian and I also discussed practical training tips for everyday scenarios. For instance, introducing a leash to an older dog can be challenging. I suggested, “You can practice that in the yard. You put the leash on him and you call him to you with some food.” Gradual introduction and positive reinforcement can make the process smoother for both the dog and the owner.

Dogpoint LLC and Freedom 106.5FM

Throughout the interview, I had the opportunity to promote my dog training services. At Dogpoint LLC, we offer various training options, including in-person sessions, virtual training, and group classes. Our website, dogpoint.pet, provides access to over 300 educational videos, blogs, and podcasts, helping dog owners worldwide.

Adrian Hackshaw's thoughtful questions and warm hospitality made the interview a delightful experience. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to him for hosting me on "Betterments with Bass." I also want to express my gratitude to Freedom 106.5FM and their holding company, Guardian Media Limited, for providing this platform to share valuable insights on dog training and ownership.

For anyone interested in professional dog training services, feel free to visit my appointments page or contact me directly. Let's work together to ensure your furry friends receive the care, training, and love they deserve.

Top 5 Things You Need to Teach Your Dog

Training a dog can seem overwhelming, but focusing on a few key areas can make a world of difference. Here are the top five things you need to teach your dog to ensure a well-behaved, happy, and healthy companion.

1. Engagement

Engagement is the cornerstone of all dog training. If your dog isn't interested in being around you, training becomes much more challenging. Engagement means making yourself the most exciting thing in your dog’s world. Play games like fetch and tug of war, call your dog to you frequently, and reward them with treats and praise. By doing fun activities together, your dog will naturally want to stay close and pay attention to you, making training much easier.

2. Crate Training

Crate training is essential for several reasons. It aids in potty training, prevents problem behaviors, and helps avoid separation anxiety. A crate provides structure and routine, making it easier for your dog to understand what is expected. Additionally, a crate ensures your dog’s safety when you can't supervise them, preventing them from chewing on dangerous items or getting into trouble. Think of it like a crib or playpen for a child—it's a safe space for them when you can’t be there to watch over them.

3. Loose Leash Walking

Teaching your dog to walk on a loose leash is crucial for enjoyable walks. Your dog doesn't need to walk in a perfect heel position but should be able to walk calmly without pulling, dragging, or crisscrossing in front of you. Loose leash walking makes outings pleasant and safe for both you and your dog, reducing stress and potential injuries.

4. Socialization

Proper socialization is about exposing your dog to various environments, people, and other dogs in a controlled manner. It doesn't mean your dog needs to interact with every person or dog they meet, but they should be able to remain calm and indifferent to different stimuli. This helps your dog become environmentally neutral, ignoring distractions and focusing on you. A well-socialized dog is more confident and less likely to develop behavioral issues.

5. Basic Obedience

Basic obedience commands like sit, down, stand, come, and heel are fundamental. These commands form the foundation for good behavior and are essential for your dog’s safety. Basic obedience makes life easier for you, your vet, your groomer, and anyone else who interacts with your dog. Consistent training in these areas ensures your dog understands what is expected and behaves appropriately in various situations.

By focusing on these five key areas—engagement, crate training, loose leash walking, socialization, and basic obedience—you'll have a well-rounded, well-behaved dog. Training takes time and patience, but the effort is worth it for a happy and harmonious relationship with your furry friend.

New Podcast Episode! Discover the Force-Free Dilemma with Nicola Ferguson!

The Dogpoint Podcast Episode 11

We're excited to bring you a brand-new episode of The Dogpoint Podcast! 🎙️

In Episode 11, we have a special guest from the UK, Nicola Ferguson, who is the author of "The Force Free Dilemma."📚 Nicola is an experienced dog trainer specializing in Rottweilers and other large, high-drive breeds. She shares her insights on the force-free training debate, the importance of setting boundaries, and how to handle high-drive dogs effectively.

Highlights from this episode:

• Introduction to Nicola Ferguson: Learn about Nicola's journey in dog training and her passion for working with high-drive breeds.

• The Force-Free Training Debate: Understand the pros and cons of force-free training and why Nicola believes balanced training is crucial for certain dogs.

• Real-Life Stories: Hear compelling stories about dogs that were saved through balanced training methods.

• Practical Tips: Get practical advice on how to train high-drive dogs and ensure their safety and happiness.

🎧 Listen to Episode 11 now!

We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it. Nicola's insights are sure to spark some thoughts and perhaps even a few debates! Don't forget to share your thoughts with us on our social media channels.

Thank you for being a part of our community and for your continued support. Stay tuned for more exciting episodes!

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To train with me, visit my appointment scheduling page.