Three Puppies Found One Slipper and Made Their Decision
Somebody's slipper has been discovered, and three red-brown puppies have claimed it. They lie side by side on the carpet with their jaws around the suede, one gnawing at the toe, another biting the heel, and the third resting a chin against the sole. Their ears flop forward and their eyes are focused on the prize. A couch with a rumpled blanket and a chew toy are visible in the background.
Slippers, shoes, and socks smell like their owners, which makes them irresistible to puppies. Chewing is normal behavior, especially while teething, which is the stage when puppies' baby teeth are replaced by adult ones. The best answer is not scolding but management. Put shoes out of reach, offer plenty of chew toys that are right for a puppy's size, and swap a toy for the shoe with praise when a pup grabs the wrong item. Patience pays off, since most pups grow out of the habit.
Swallowed pieces of fabric or sole can cause serious blockages, so it is worth watching closely. If a puppy swallows part of a shoe, call your vet promptly. Freezing a damp washcloth or giving a puppy-safe chew can also soothe sore gums.
We hope the owner is not planning to wear this pair again. Three tiny teeth experts have clearly taken over the footwear department.
