behavior problems with Bulldog Mix

[wendelou]

My 5 year old Bulldog Mix has recently started acting out.  Chewing furniture, magazines, shoes, leather belts, and pretty much anything that she can get her mouth on.  I reprimand her but then she pouts and tries to apologize and I don't know how to act.  This may sound funny but she really does have a soft heart and she understands how to express feelings. Why is she acting out and how can I stop it?  Please, can anyone help?
Wende

[People Whisperer]

It seems like she is bored...maybe she needs some new activities: backpacking, training, games or...chew toys after all.
What do you mean by a soft heart? She is taking advantage of you, isn't she?

[Gevaudan_Jo]

Hi and welcome!
The only thing i can think of for your bullie mix is possible bordom. Our 1 year old Bull Terrier recently started chewing everything she could... we have stocked up on more bones, different types and shapes and flavors to keep her occupied.
Maybe some new toys and bones for your bulldog?
Sorry, i dont have any other thoughts...
Jo

[wendelou]

Wow I never thought of it that way.  She gets her feelings hurt easily.  But I guess so do I with all of the carnage that she is producing. 
It may be that we are not taking enough time out for our 3 bogs.  She seems to be the only one who is upset with us. 
Thanks

[Scootergirl]

You may want to have the vet check her teeth. It's odd that she would start this behavior after 5 years unless you 1) changed your schedule (started a new job that keeps you away more, different hours, etc.), or 2)introduced something or someone new into the home (new baby, new boyfriend, new puppy/cat, etc.)

If she has a sore tooth, she may be chewing to numb the pain. With some types of injuries, the pain is lessened when pressure is applied. She may be doing this. Best to get it checked out before you write it off as a behavior problem.

Keep us updated!

[wendelou]

Thanks so much for the info.  We did just move into a new house, get a new Boxer and we both work a lot.  I guess this is really that My Husband and I have the behavioral problems and we need to work on one on one time with each of our babies!
Thanks

[wendelou]

Great advice!  All three of our dogs are due for check-ups.  After reading a few of the other posts, I decides that today would be the start of our new relationship with our babies. We went in the back yard and played really hard. Good exercise to tire them and myself out for the evening.  We are also looking for a crate.  My Boxer is a crate dog and Clare(bulldog)loves to get inside with her.  Should I let them crate together?  Any advice would be great on this subject too.
Thanks