One of the toughest things you might ever have to do is stop a dog’s chewing problem. Dogs chew all the time, its natural and not always bad dog behavior. It’s soothing to them, it’s how they keep their teeth clean and it keeps them busy, but if it’s your furniture they are chewing on, it can also be very frustrating.
You should know that you can stop dog’s chewing problems in no time if you use the right tools to get the job done. There are many suggestions, but these tips are tried and true and you’ll find that the remainder of your things last for a very long time when you follow these ideas.
1: Dog Chew Toys – Chew toys should be your best friend
If you don’t use chew toys to stop dog’s chewing, then you are going about it in the wrong way. You know that dogs chew and if you don’t let them, you’ll cause them to have bad teeth, so why try to break the behavior? Instead of trying to get your dog to stop chewing, you should encourage him to chew on the right thing. So, for instance, tell your pooch no when he chews on your favorite shoe, but tell him he’s a good boy when he takes his chew bone. In time, he will learn what he is allowed to get into and what he needs to stay away from.
2: Stop Dog Chewing – Play with your dog
If you’re not playing with your dog, it’s unlikely that you’ll stop any dog’s chewing. Dogs love, love, love to play. It’s their favorite thing to do with you, so make sure that your dog isn’t bored and that’s what’s making him chew your stuff. Instead of letting him get into things, encourage your pooch to play with you for a good long time. By the time you’re done, he will be, too and you’ll stop dog’s chewing in this way.
3: Training – Put him in a crate
Putting your dog in a dog crate is not cruel and it’s one of the best ways to housetrain your dog and to stop dog’s chewing. When you aren’t home, you should always make sure to put your dog in a crate so that he won’t get mad at you for being gone and tear into your leather chair. You may not have to do this forever, but don’t rush it, either. It takes a while to stop dog’s chewing and this is going to be one of your best tools in doing so. Give your pooch a chew bone for when you’re gone so that he can take out anxiety or boredom with his bone and you’ll come home to a house that is just like you left it and your dog won’t be in trouble.
Chewed-up shoes, shredded couch cushions, gnawed table legs… Sound familiar? If you’re a dog owner, chances are you’ve dealt with chewing problems at some point. While some chewing is natural, destructive chewing can become a major problem.
Understanding why dogs chew—and more importantly, how to stop it—is essential for maintaining a happy home and a well-behaved pup.
What is Destructive Chewing in Dogs?
Destructive chewing is when a dog damages inappropriate items like furniture, shoes, remote controls, or doors by gnawing or biting. It usually signals an unmet need or emotional issue rather than just a “naughty” dog.
Common Reasons Dogs Chew Everything
Before you can fix the problem, you need to know why it’s happening. Dogs chew for a variety of reasons:
- Teething pain (puppies)
- Boredom
- Anxiety
- Hunger
- Attention-seeking
- Instinctual behavior
Is Chewing Normal for Dogs?
Yes, to a point! Chewing is a natural and healthy behavior for dogs. It helps:
- Clean their teeth
- Exercise their jaws
- Alleviate stress
- Explore the world (especially for puppies)
But when it becomes obsessive or destructive, that’s when action is needed.
Puppy Teething vs Adult Chewing
Puppies experience intense discomfort while teething (from 3–7 months old). Chewing provides relief. However, if not managed, this behavior can carry over into adulthood.
| Stage | Typical Behavior |
|---|---|
| 3-4 months | Chewing soft items (teething) |
| 5-6 months | Increased gnawing (molars coming in) |
| 7+ months | Habit formation begins |
Separation Anxiety and Chewing
Dogs are pack animals. When left alone for long periods, they can develop separation anxiety, which often leads to:
- Excessive barking
- Indoor accidents
- Chewing doors, windows, and furniture
If your dog destroys things only when you’re gone, anxiety is likely the culprit.
Boredom-Driven Chewing Habits
Imagine sitting in a room all day with nothing to do. You’d go a little crazy too, right?
Bored dogs chew to entertain themselves. Without mental and physical stimulation, your pup will find their own fun—which often involves your favorite belongings.
Medical Issues That Can Cause Chewing
Sometimes chewing is more than just behavioral—it can be a sign of a health issue:
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Dental disease
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Neurological disorders
Always check with a vet if chewing starts suddenly or becomes excessive.
Table: Signs and Triggers of Chewing Problems
| Behavior | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Chews only when alone | Separation anxiety |
| Gnaws constantly | Boredom or habit |
| Targets specific materials | Texture preference or dental need |
| Started suddenly | Medical issue or stress |
How to Stop Destructive Chewing
Here’s how to stop the chewing nightmare step by step:
- Identify the cause (teething, boredom, anxiety, etc.)
- Redirect to appropriate items like chew toys
- Increase exercise and mental stimulation
- Limit unsupervised freedom with crates or baby gates
- Use deterrent sprays on furniture or shoes
Safe Chew Toys: What Works Best
The right chew toy can make all the difference.
| Toy Type | Good For | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber toys | Power chewers | Kong, Nylabone |
| Ropes | Interactive tug & chewing | Mammoth rope toys |
| Treat-dispensing | Mental stimulation + chewing | Kong Wobbler, Busy Buddy |
| Freezer toys | Teething puppies | Ice cube toys, puppy teething rings |
Avoid rawhide, as it can pose choking and digestive risks.
Training Techniques for Chewing
Here are a few actionable tips:
- Catch them in the act and redirect
- Say a firm “No” and offer a chew toy
- Praise when they chew the right thing
- Never punish after the fact—they won’t understand
Consistency is everything.
Using Positive Reinforcement Correctly
Dogs repeat behaviors that get results. Reward chewing the right items by:
- Offering treats
- Giving belly rubs
- Using a cheerful tone
This positive feedback builds good habits faster than punishment ever will.
Dog-Proofing Your Home
Until the chewing is under control, you’ll need to dog-proof:
- Store shoes and clothes in closets
- Use trash cans with lids
- Put electrical cords out of reach
- Spray furniture with chew deterrents
When to Consult a Vet or Trainer
If chewing persists despite training, it might be time for a pro:
- Vets can rule out medical causes
- Certified dog trainers can design custom behavior plans
- Animal behaviorists handle deep-rooted anxiety or trauma
Table: Safe vs Unsafe Items to Chew
| Safe Items | Unsafe Items |
|---|---|
| Hard rubber toys | Electrical cords |
| Dental chews | Socks (can cause blockages) |
| Rope toys | Bones that splinter |
| Ice cubes | Plastic household items |
| Kong stuffed with treats | Shoes, furniture, kids’ toys |
Case Study: A Chewer Turned Angel
Meet Luna, a 9-month-old Labrador who chewed everything—couch corners, remote controls, even drywall.
What Worked:
- 2 long walks per day
- Frozen Kong during alone time
- Interactive toys
- Positive reinforcement training
Within 3 weeks, her behavior drastically improved. Today, Luna only chews her toys—and the occasional stick at the park.
Myths About Dog Chewing Behavior
Myth 1: “They’re just being bad.”
Nope. Dogs don’t chew out of spite. It’s usually due to unmet needs.
Myth 2: “They’ll grow out of it.”
Some dogs don’t. You need to train, not wait.
Myth 3: “Punishment will fix it.”
Punishing after the fact creates fear, not learning.
Table: Puppy Chewing Timeline
| Age (Months) | Chewing Reason | Training Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 | Exploration, teething | Introduce chew toys |
| 4-6 | Teething pain | Redirection, consistency |
| 6-9 | Habit-building | Positive reinforcement, exercise |
| 10+ | Behavioral correction | Reinforce good chewing choices |
Conclusion
Dog chewing problems don’t have to be a lifelong battle. With a mix of understanding, consistency, and the right tools, you can redirect destructive behavior into healthy chewing habits. Remember—your dog isn’t being bad. They’re trying to tell you something with their teeth. You just have to learn their language.
FAQs
1. Is it okay to let my dog chew bones?
Some natural bones can splinter and cause harm. Stick with safe chew toys or vet-approved dental chews.
2. Can adult dogs develop new chewing habits?
Yes, especially if stressed, bored, or anxious. Even senior dogs can start chewing out of discomfort or confusion.
3. What is the best deterrent for chewing furniture?
Bitter apple spray or citrus sprays often work. Consistency is key—reapply daily if needed.
4. Why does my dog chew my shoes specifically?
Shoes carry your scent, which can be comforting—or irresistible. Always store them out of reach.
5. Can chewing be a sign of a bigger problem?
Yes. Sudden or excessive chewing may indicate anxiety, pain, or even cognitive decline. Check with your vet.
Remember that it isn’t easy to stop dog’s chewing, but if you stay diligent and make sure to keep forbidden items away if you’re not able to watch your dog, you will find that he is a good boy and doesn’t chew your things in no time.
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