How Do I Stop My Dog From Chewing?
You come home from work, drop your keys, and there it is—your favorite sneaker, now transformed into a shredded masterpiece of slobbery destruction. Your dog looks up, tail wagging, with no hint of guilt. You sigh, wondering, “Why does my dog keep chewing everything?”
Chewing is one of the most common complaints from dog parents, especially with puppies or young dogs. But here’s the good news: chewing is totally normal, and with a little training and patience, you can curb it without losing your mind—or your couch cushions.
Let’s unpack what’s going on in that busy little mouth and what you can do to help.
Why Dogs Chew
Before you can fix it, you’ve got to understand it. Dogs chew for a few very good reasons:
1. Teething Pain (For Puppies)
Just like babies, puppies go through a teething stage. It starts around 3 weeks and can last until they’re 6 months old. During this time, chewing helps relieve gum discomfort and helps loosen those baby teeth.
2. Boredom
Dogs are smart and energetic creatures. If they don’t have enough to do, they’ll find something to keep themselves busy—and your furniture, shoes, or remote control might just be the most interesting option.
3. Anxiety or Stress
Chewing can be a coping mechanism for dogs who are anxious or dealing with separation anxiety. It gives them something to focus on and can even release feel-good endorphins.
4. Curiosity
Especially in young dogs, chewing is a way to explore the world. It’s their version of touching, tasting, and asking, “What is this thing, and can I eat it?”
5. Attention-Seeking
If chewing gets a big reaction—yelling, chasing, or grabbing the chewed object—your dog might repeat the behavior just to get you to interact. To them, negative attention is still attention.
How to Stop the Chewing (Without Losing Your Cool)
Step 1: Puppy-Proof Your Space
Think of your home like a toddler’s play zone. Keep valuables, cords, shoes, and anything dangerous out of reach. Baby gates, closed doors, and storage bins will be your best friends.
If your dog can’t get to it, they can’t chew it. Simple as that.
Step 2: Provide the Right Chew Toys
Not all chew toys are created equal. Offer a variety of safe, durable options: rubber toys, rope toys, and food-stuffed puzzle toys. Rotate them weekly to keep things exciting.
Bonus tip: For teething puppies, try freezing a wet washcloth or rubber toy to soothe sore gums.
Step 3: Exercise, Exercise, Exercise
A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Physical activity burns off energy, while mental stimulation (like puzzle feeders or training games) keeps their brain busy.
Aim for daily walks, play sessions, and enrichment activities. Bored dogs chew; tired dogs nap.
Step 4: Use Positive Reinforcement
When your dog chews on an appropriate toy, praise them like they just won a Nobel Prize. Treats, pets, and happy voices reinforce the idea: “This chew? Good. That couch leg? Bad.”
Avoid punishment—it can backfire and increase anxiety, which often leads to... you guessed it, more chewing.
Step 5: Redirect the Behavior
Catch your dog mid-chew on something forbidden? Don’t panic. Calmly remove the object, say a firm “no” or “uh-uh,” and offer a proper chew toy instead. When they take it, praise them.
Repetition is key. The more consistent you are, the faster they’ll catch on.
Step 6: Manage Anxiety
If your dog’s chewing seems tied to stress (especially when you're not home), talk to your vet or a professional trainer. Separation anxiety is real and needs a thoughtful approach, which might include crate training, calming routines, or even behavior therapy.
What About Crate Training?
Used properly, crates are a safe and cozy space—not a punishment. When you can’t supervise your dog, a crate can keep them (and your stuff) safe.
Make it positive: use treats, soft bedding, and toys inside. Never use the crate as a consequence for bad behavior.
Final Thoughts
Chewing isn’t your dog being “bad”—it’s your dog being a dog. But with the right guidance, they can learn what’s fair game and what’s off-limits.
So save your shoes, reclaim your furniture, and remember: patience, praise, and play go a long way. You’re not just stopping a behavior—you’re building trust, teaching boundaries, and creating a happier home for both of you.
