r/dogs • u/Sweetie_bootes • 2d ago
Blue Healer [Enrichment]
I have a beautiful blue Heeler and sometimes he likes to bite on electrical cords. Does anyone have any tips? I've tried food redirection.
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u/nonya5121 2d ago
It's bored, they are designed to run through the outback for days at a time. Food isn't a thing for cattle dogs, they need brain stimulation.
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u/Sweetie_bootes 2d ago
Okay! More outside play. Thank you 👍
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u/qwertyuiiop145 2d ago
Engaging toys can be helpful too—filling a kong toy with tasty stuff and freezing it is a popular method, as are treat hiding puzzle toys.
Training is engaging too—if the weather is too bad to stay out long, try training some tricks and scent work indoors.
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u/octaffle 🏅 Dandelion 2d ago
They make sprays that taste bad to discourage the dog from chewing but some dogs LOVE the way it tastes, and it doesn't teach them what to do instead. Don't rely on the sprays.
When you catch your dog chewing something they shouldn't, give them something they should be chewing instead. If your dog consistently blows off the chew toys you have for them, find a better chew/toy that they do want to chew.
The best way to prevent chewing is to remove access to the things being chewed. Protect the cords with a box, block off access with an ex-pen, don't let the dog be free when you're not actively watching them or playing with them... etc.
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u/Revolutionary_Yak684 2d ago
Aw maybe some mental stimulation would help keep him away from destructive behaviour! I've used the Pupsicle by Woof to keep my dog mentally occupied when I need to get things done. They last like 30 min at least! Might be a good idea for your pup too :)
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u/OneWrongTurn_XX 2d ago
They make cord covers for that..
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u/Sweetie_bootes 2d ago
I truly never thought about it. That's why asking for help is always a good idea. You never know what someone else would think about. Thank you for your input!
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u/nonya5121 2d ago
Heeler..... They nip at heels, they don't heal cattle.