How to Teach Your Dog to Stop Chewing Everything in Sight

Dog chewing behavior


If your dog is a relentless chewer, you’re not alone. Whether it’s your shoes, furniture, or cords, destructive chewing is one of the most common behavioral issues faced by dog owners. While chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, especially puppies, it can quickly become a problem if it’s not properly managed. Not only does it lead to damage in your home, but it can also be harmful to your dog if they chew on dangerous items.

The good news is that with the right training, you can teach your dog what’s acceptable to chew and what isn’t. In this article, we’ll explore why dogs chew, how to stop the destructive chewing habits, and how to redirect their behavior to more appropriate items.

 

Why Do Dogs Chew?

Before jumping into the solutions, it’s important to understand why dogs chew. Here are some common reasons:

  1. Teething (for Puppies): Puppies go through a teething phase between 3 and 6 months of age, during which they chew to alleviate the discomfort of growing teeth.
  2. Boredom and Excess Energy: Dogs, especially high-energy breeds, may chew on furniture, shoes, or other objects if they’re not mentally or physically stimulated enough. Chewing becomes an outlet for their pent-up energy.
  3. Exploration: Dogs, particularly puppies, chew to explore the world around them. Their mouths are a tool for interaction, just like hands are for humans.
  4. Anxiety: Some dogs chew excessively when they’re stressed or anxious, especially when left alone (separation anxiety).
  5. Attention-Seeking: Dogs may chew on your belongings if they know it will get your attention—whether it’s positive or negative.


 

How to Stop Destructive Chewing

Once you understand the reason behind your dog’s chewing, you can begin addressing the issue. Here are some effective strategies to curb destructive chewing:

 

1. Provide Proper Chew Toys

The best way to discourage your dog from chewing on inappropriate items is to provide plenty of appropriate chew toys. Choose toys that are durable, safe, and engaging. Chew toys not only satisfy your dog’s natural instincts but also help keep their teeth healthy.

  • What to do: Offer a variety of chew toys, including rubber toys, rope toys, and dental chews. Make sure to choose toys appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing strength.
  • Why it works: If your dog has suitable toys to chew on, they’re less likely to go after your shoes or furniture. You can also engage your dog in playtime with these toys to keep them entertained and tired out.

 

2. Redirect Attention

When you catch your dog in the act of chewing something they shouldn’t, redirect their attention to an appropriate toy. This is where timing is essential.

  • What to do: When you see your dog chewing on an inappropriate item, immediately interrupt them with a firm “no” or a clap. Then, immediately offer them a chew toy. When they switch to the toy, praise them and reward them with treats or affection.
  • Why it works: By redirecting your dog’s chewing behavior to a suitable object, you’re teaching them what is acceptable to chew. Positive reinforcement helps them connect the action (chewing the toy) with a reward, making them more likely to repeat the behavior.

 

3. Keep Belongings Out of Reach

If your dog tends to chew on your shoes, cords, or other valuable items, keep them out of reach when you're not around to supervise.

  • What to do: Use baby gates or close doors to keep your dog out of rooms where they have access to household items you don’t want them to chew. If possible, store shoes, electronics, and personal items in places your dog cannot reach.
  • Why it works: By removing tempting items, you limit the opportunity for your dog to chew them. This also gives you a better chance to reward the right behavior (chewing on their toys) without the distractions of forbidden items.

 

4. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive chewing. Dogs that don’t get enough physical and mental exercise often chew out of boredom or frustration.

  • What to do: Ensure your dog gets regular exercise—whether it’s walks, runs, or playtime in the yard. Also, provide mental stimulation through puzzle toys, training sessions, or scent games to keep their minds engaged.
  • Why it works: Dogs that have their energy properly channeled are less likely to chew out of boredom. Providing both physical and mental stimulation helps prevent undesirable behaviors, including chewing.

 

5. Use Deterring Sprays

If your dog has developed a habit of chewing certain items, you can use deterring sprays to make those objects less appealing. These sprays typically have an unpleasant taste or scent that dogs dislike.

  • What to do: Apply a safe, dog-friendly deterring spray to the items your dog tends to chew on. Be sure to follow the instructions and apply the spray regularly.
  • Why it works: The unpleasant taste or smell discourages your dog from chewing on those items, and they may begin to seek out more appropriate toys instead.

 

6. Address Anxiety-Driven Chewing

If your dog is chewing out of anxiety or stress, it’s important to address the root cause of the anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety, for example, often chew to cope with being left alone.

  • What to do: If you suspect your dog’s chewing is related to anxiety, consult with a professional trainer or veterinarian. They can help you address the anxiety using desensitization techniques or, in some cases, medication to help manage stress.
  • Why it works: By addressing the underlying anxiety, you can reduce the urge to chew excessively. Calming strategies, like crate training, routine-building, or even interactive toys, can help soothe your dog’s nerves.

 

How to Prevent Chewing in Puppies

Puppies are especially prone to chewing, particularly during their teething phase. Here’s how to help guide them through this phase:

  1. Provide Teething Toys: Puppies need something to chew on to relieve the discomfort of teething. Offer them a variety of safe, soft rubber toys designed for teething.
  2. Supervise and Redirect: Watch your puppy closely and redirect them to their toys when they start chewing on inappropriate items.
  3. Be Consistent: Puppies learn quickly, so consistency is key. When they chew on the right things, reward them. When they chew on the wrong things, gently redirect them.

Infographic

destructive chewing behavior

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Conclusion

Destructive chewing is a common but fixable problem that many dog owners face. By providing proper chew toys, redirecting attention, keeping valuables out of reach, and offering plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, you can teach your dog to chew on appropriate items and stop damaging your belongings. Remember that patience and consistency are key whether your dog is a teething puppy or an adult dealing with boredom or anxiety, you can overcome the chewing problem with the right approach.

Stick with it, and you’ll soon have a dog who knows exactly what’s okay to chew and what isn’t!



References:

  • American Kennel Club (AKC). (2023). Dealing with Destructive Chewing: Tips and Techniques. Retrieved from www.akc.org
  • Journal of Veterinary Behavior, Volume 22, Issue 1. (2022). The Causes and Solutions for Destructive Chewing in Dogs. Retrieved from www.journals.elsevier.com
  • International Journal of Applied Animal Behavior Science, Volume 139. (2021). Understanding and Correcting Destructive Chewing in Dogs. Retrieved from www.elsevier.com

 

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