Rescued beagle chewing & humping everything

[bartleby]

Yesterday was our first day with our new family member--a two-year-old male beagle. He was in a foster home before he came to us, and we heard nothing but glowing accounts of his temperament and behavior.

And, so far he's doing great. But, understandably, he seems anxious and basically has not met a pillow, blanket, stuffed animal that he doesn't love. And I mean reeaally love. We follow him around and command him to "leave it" when he finds something interesting (taking him by the collar and helping him to do so), and then direct him toward his toys and offer praise when we see him chewing his toys instead.

I know we're in a period of adjustment, but I want to know what I can do to help him feel more comfortable and settle down a bit. He got neutered four days ago, if that explains anything. But I've never owned a male dog, so I don't know how much of the chewing/humping is related to that.

Just looking for general support around calming him, acclimating him to our family, and correcting his behavior in the most effective way possible. Any books/websites that would be helpful? The Internet has so much conflicting information, I don't know where to start.

Thanks!

[Ola_]

Is he crate trained? I would be using that when you can't watch him so that he doesn't pick up too many bad habits.

Also, rather than taking him by the collar (which many dogs take offense to) I'd have him drag a light leash to help you redirect him. Does he know any obedience commands? I'd definitely sign up for a training class to help you learn how to communicate. How much exercise is he getting on a daily basis and what type? I ask that question a lot but really it's the key to many dog misbehaviours.

How much chewing/humping is related to him being male? I'd say not much. I have a male dog that doesn't do either (neuterd at 5.5 years) and a female dog who has a strong need to chew.