Once cord chewing has been recognized as a high-risk behavior, the next step is not to fix it. The next step is to assess whether there is immediate danger right now.
This is a short, practical triage. It is not about training, prevention, or long-term plans.
Questions that matter right now
- Does your dog currently have access to cords?
- Are cords exposed, plugged in, or easy to reach?
- Has chewing happened more than once or persisted?
- Are you unsure where cords are or when access might occur?
You are not looking for certainty. You are looking for whether risk is active or contained.
If risk appears active
If cords are accessible, exposure is ongoing, or the behavior has repeated, this situation should be treated as time-sensitive. Waiting for more information is not required to acknowledge risk.
If risk appears temporarily contained
If access is clearly blocked and the behavior was brief or isolated, monitoring may be reasonable. Monitoring does not mean assuming safety. It means staying alert without escalating prematurely.
What not to do during triage
Do not search for fixes.
Do not test whether your dog will repeat the behavior.
Do not assume that calm means safety.
This page is only about identifying whether immediate risk is present.
Plain informational disclaimer: This content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not replace professional guidance. If a dog or person may be in immediate danger, seek appropriate professional or emergency assistance.