Dog Chewing

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, especially puppies, and plays a role in exploration, teething, and stress relief. However, inappropriate chewing on furniture, shoes, or household items can become a problem. Understanding why your dog chews is key to preventing damage and supporting healthy behavior.

Veterinary behaviorists emphasize that providing appropriate outlets, supervision, and positive reinforcement is the most effective way to manage chewing.

Common Reasons Dogs Chew

Teething

  • Puppies begin teething around 3–6 weeks, with full adult teeth by 6 months
  • Chewing helps relieve discomfort and strengthen new teeth

Boredom or Excess Energy

  • Dogs left alone or under-stimulated may chew to occupy themselves
  • Common in high-energy breeds like Border Collies, Terriers, and Huskies

Stress or Anxiety

  • Separation anxiety or environmental changes can trigger chewing
  • Often accompanied by pacing, whining, or destructive behavior

Exploration & Play

  • Dogs use their mouths to investigate objects
  • Puppies in particular learn about the world through chewing

Attention-Seeking

  • Some dogs chew to get a reaction from owners
  • Can be reinforced if the owner responds inconsistently

Strategies to Manage Chewing

1. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

  • Puppies: soft, rubber teething toys
  • Adult dogs: durable toys like Kongs, nylon bones, or puzzle feeders
  • Rotate toys to maintain interest

2. Supervise and Confine

  • Puppies should be confined to safe areas when unsupervised
  • Use baby gates, crates, or playpens to prevent access to forbidden items

3. Positive Reinforcement

  • Reward your dog for chewing appropriate items
  • Redirect from inappropriate items with treats or toys

4. Exercise & Mental Stimulation

  • Adequate physical activity reduces boredom-related chewing
  • Puzzle feeders, training sessions, and interactive play provide mental enrichment

5. Deterrents & Environmental Management

  • Use bitter sprays on furniture or shoes to discourage chewing
  • Keep tempting objects out of reach

When to Seek Professional Help

  • Chewing persists despite training and enrichment
  • Associated with anxiety, fear, or aggression
  • Causes injury or ingestion of harmful materials

A professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can create a tailored behavior modification plan.

Benefits of Managing Chewing

  • Protects household items and prevents injuries
  • Reduces stress and anxiety in dogs
  • Encourages healthy teething and oral development
  • Strengthens owner-dog communication and trust

Tip: Chewing is natural — the goal is to channel it into safe, enriching behaviors rather than suppress it completely.