Why would a 14-year-old male mixed-breed dog start destructive behavior?
Destructive behavior in dogs can start at any age. Chewing furniture, scratching at doors or digging at carpets can result from phobias, anxiety, lack of exercise or plain old boredom. Teaching your dog to be calm and keeping it occupied can help.PhobiasSome dogs are afraid of thunderstorms, fireworks and other loud noises, and remain so for life. Your dog may be reacting to fearful sounds or situations by digging, scratching or performing some other destructive behavior.AnxietyDogs can develop separation anxiety at any age, especially if there is a sudden change. Older dogs find it difficult to adjust to new situations, like their owner’s altered work schedule, new pets or moving to a new home.Lack of ExerciseYour dog, even at 14, needs plenty of physical exercise. All that pent-up energy can lead to chewing on furniture, clawing the carpet and a multitude of other destructive behaviors.BoredomJust like curious puppies, older dogs need mental stimulation. Being confined to the same pl
