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My Standard Poodle chews on his ears, why?
I have 3 year old male Standard Poodle. When he is crated (maximum 3 hours) he chews on his ears, making them spitty and gross. I've taken him to the vet and there is nothing wrong with his ears, I'm told it's a habit. I've used the sour apple and even perfume spray on his ears, so that it will tast nasty. Yet he still enjoys chewing on his ears. The groomer has even cut his ear short. What else can I do? It obviously is a habit of his, but how do I break it? HELP! He now has discolored ears from all the spit.
Answers
BOREDOM. Since the behavior is specific to being crated - I am certain this is why. Try and give him a long walk before crating him for any length of time to burn off excess energy. In addition, Poodles are one of the smartest breeds of dogs. They require more stimulation then other breeds.
You should provide that stimulation through plenty of excercise (perhaps try having the dog run alongside while you bike or rollerblade) and providing something of interest while in the crate such as a Busy Buddy toy filled with peanut butter or another tasty treat.
Good luck!
