I often receive the question: “What do I do? My deaf puppy won’t stop chewing on me!”

The answer is quite short and very simple. Use the sign for "No" - clapping the right hand's index and middle fingers against the thumb. Combine your hand signal with a very stern face and gently and firmly - but gently - push the deaf pup back. Immediately get up, leave the room, and ignore your pup. Pups do not like being left and ignored.

When my pup calms even for a moment, I praise and reward. I also give a wonderful, safe chew toy, item, or treat. Repeatedly offer your pup wonderful safe chew toys or items before your deaf pup begins chewing on you. This will encourage, as well as reinforce, appropriate chewing. Consistent repetition will reap good results.

REMEMBER: A tired dog is a good dog. Our deaf dogs won’t chew on us when they are “plumb tuckered out.” Keep your deaf pup exercised and work off that excess energy. Deaf dogs can play and do things just like any hearing dog. Find your deaf pup’s favorite sport such as things like fetch, running, lure coursing, agility, or Frisbee.

The above video is taken from the children’s book: Hogan’s Hope: Discovering Fun and Favorite Things.

Elsie loves her treadmill, especially on day rainy days when she can’t get outside to run and play.

Much appreciation to the person or organization that designed this wonderful picture!

Thanksgiving is less than a week away and holiday guests might want to slip treats to our pets. Not only that, but holiday leftovers might be tempting for our precious animals to steal. Fatty and spicy foods, bones, raw bread dough, alcoholic beverages, onions/ garlic, chocolate, grapes, and raisins are on the please do not feed list!

A well-intended treat could trigger intestinal upset, diarrhea, or even pancreatitis. Sugar-free sweets could contain xylitol that can be lethal to pets. If guests want to give some extra attention to our pets, they can provide a walk or some extra cuddle time. As the human caretakers, we are responsible for our precious pups’ needs and safety. We can provide healthy and safe alternatives that our animals will love, and our guests will feel happier being able to spoil a loving, warm, and furry family member who is insisting on getting a treat as everyone else.

Please be extra diligent during this festive season when our parties and gatherings can turn upside-down if our beloved pets become ill or even worse. Let everyone know that positive reinforcement is the only option and each person must know how to approach, get attention, and how to handle situations, even if that means getting you to take care of things.

Be sure to have special treats on hand like baby carrots, small pieces of apple, or special dog treats.

Keep food up where our four-legged family members can’t reach. Our deaf pups can’t hear us telling them from behind that their behavior isn’t appropriate.

Instruct children, seniors, and guests on what not to feed our pets. Humans need to be diligent to keep our deaf dogs’ attention focused and our communication visible.

Tethering your pup to your side is a great way to keep them close and under a watchful eye. This practice also helps keep negative correction out of the equation because our pups have to pay much closer attention.

Happy Thanksgiving, and let’s make certain that it’s all happy for everyone!

The Deaf Puppy who Chews on its Person

Hogan’s Hope for a Safe Thanksgiving with our Deaf Dogs -- All Our Dogs

Another list helps list dangerous items: