Part of our yard is landscaped in wood chips. I believe my dog became nervous about guest dogs and started eating wood chips and therefore the guest dogs did the same. I know this is unhealthy. Does anyone have suggestions about how to prevent the eating of wood chips?
I don't have experience in this area, but recalled reading about wood chips over a year ago because some manufacturers starting putting cocoa mulch in the ingredients! I mention this in case you may have one of these, which the dogs would gravitate to (cocoa/chocolate) but of course is Lethal. Other than adding fencing, I'd suggest maybe the leave-it command training would be helpful,
Thanks, Deb! I ended up going outside with the pups and tried to catch them in the act. I'd shake a jar of coins in their ear and spray the chips with bitter yuck. Do you use leave it over no? If so, why?
I'm glad to hear that you found a solution that works. As for the commands, Leave it is a great choice. It depends what the dog knows. During my meet & greets, I ask & note what commands they taught their dog, etc., so I can continue with what each dog knows. Funny - so many ways to say same thing.
I would take the dogs out on leash to prevent them accessing the chips. I am NOT a Flexi/retractable leash fan, but I do use them in the backyard for dogs that don't come when called: I can stand on the porch while they toilet, and when I decide it's time to go in, there's no chasing after the dog!
I guess you could also look into spraying the chips with some kind of Bitter Apple type spray...might be $$$$.
Thank you so much Leighann! I really appreciate the feedback. I basically ended up spraying the chips and shaking a loud jar of coins in their ears. Hahaha. The challenge is there are SO MANY chips that I'd need gallons of Bitter Yuck. Do you go outside with your doggie guests?