If you’ve ever come home to find your favorite shoes shredded or your furniture legs gnawed like a chew toy, you’re not alone. As frustrating as it is to walk into that scene, you should know that your dog isn’t chewing to spite you. In fact, dogs chew for very natural and important reasons.
In this guide, we’re going to break down exactly why dogs chew everything in sight, what it means from a behavioral and emotional standpoint, and most, how you can help curb the behavior while keeping your dog happy and mentally stimulated. Think of this as a friendly conversation with a dog behavior expert who really gets what you’re going through.
Why Dogs Chew: The Root Causes
Let’s start by getting into the dog’s mindset. Chewing is a completely normal canine behavior. It’s how dogs explore the world, relieve stress, and even soothe discomfort. But when chewing becomes destructive, it’s often a symptom of something deeper.
1. Puppy Teething
If your dog is under 6 months old, the most likely cause of excessive chewing is teething. Just like human babies, puppies experience discomfort when their new teeth come in.
What it looks like:
- Chewing on everything, especially soft or rubbery items
- Increased drooling
- Slight swelling in the gums
What to do:
- Offer puppy-safe teething toys (frozen carrots are great, too!)
- Avoid scolding; redirect with acceptable chew options
- Give lots of comfort and attention
2. Boredom and Lack of Stimulation
Dogs are intelligent, active creatures. When they’re bored, chewing becomes a way to pass the time and create excitement.
What it looks like:
- Chewing occurs when left alone or at the same time each day
- Other signs of boredom: pacing, whining, digging
What to do:
- Increase daily physical exercise and mental stimulation
- Try puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, or training games
- Rotate toys every few days to keep them novel
3. Separation Anxiety
Does your dog only chew destructively when you leave the house? That’s a red flag for separation anxiety.
What it looks like:
- Chewed door frames, windowsills, or items near exits
- Barking, whining, or howling when alone
- Accidents indoors despite being house-trained
What to do:
- Gradual desensitization to alone time
- Create a safe, comforting space with a favorite blanket or toy
- Talk to a vet or canine behaviorist if symptoms persist
4. Lack of Training and Boundaries
Sometimes, dogs chew because they simply don’t know any better. Especially if you’ve recently adopted or your training has been inconsistent.
What it looks like:
- Chewing on inappropriate items even when you’re home
- Ignoring cues like "leave it" or "no"
What to do:
- Teach commands like “leave it” and reward when obeyed
- Supervise and use crates or playpens when unsupervised
- Praise and reward when they chew on appropriate items
5. Hunger or Nutritional Deficiency
Some dogs will chew and eat non-food items (a condition called pica) due to dietary needs or hunger.
What it looks like:
- Chewing and swallowing strange objects like paper or rocks
- Increased scavenging during walks or in the home
What to do:
- Check your dog’s feeding schedule and portion sizes
- Consult a vet about balanced nutrition and supplements
What Not to Do
Let’s take a second to talk about what not to do when your dog chews destructively:
- Don’t yell or punish after the fact. Dogs don’t associate past behavior with current punishment.
- Don’t use physical punishment. It creates fear and can worsen anxiety or aggression.
- Don’t expect your dog to outgrow it without guidance. Even adult dogs chew if not trained.
- Instead, focus on positive reinforcement, setting clear expectations, and understanding the behavior.
How To Redirect Chewing Behavior
Changing a dog’s behavior takes consistency and patience. Here’s a practical strategy you can implement right away.
Step 1: Dog-Proof Your Home
- Remove tempting items like shoes, remote controls, and children’s toys
- Use baby gates to block off-access areas
Step 2: Provide Approved Chew Items
- Offer a variety of chew toys: rubber, rope, edible, puzzle-based
- Use toys that fit your dog’s size and chewing style (aggressive vs. light chewer)
Step 3: Observe and Redirect
- When you catch your dog chewing something inappropriate, calmly say “no” or “leave it”
- Immediately give them a proper chew toy and praise them
Step 4: Burn That Energy!
- A tired dog is less likely to chew destructively
- Daily walks, fetch, tug-of-war, and scent games help release pent-up energy
Breed and Personality Factors
Certain dog breeds are more prone to chewing due to their instincts and energy levels.
Here are a few examples:
- Labrador Retrievers: Natural chewers who love carrying things in their mouths
- Beagles: Scent-driven and curious, often chew when bored
- Jack Russell Terriers: High energy and need constant stimulation
- Border Collies: Extremely intelligent and need mental challenges
Understanding your dog’s breed traits helps tailor your approach.
When To Seek Professional Help
If your dog’s chewing is extreme, persistent, or accompanied by other behavioral issues (like aggression or self-harm), it might be time to consult:
Your veterinarian to rule out medical issues
A certified dog trainer or behaviorist for a personalized plan
A pet nutritionist if dietary deficiencies are suspected
Real-Life Example: Max the Couch Destroyer
Let’s talk about Max, a 1-year-old Golden Retriever whose owner, Sarah, was at her wit’s end. Every time she left the house, Max would chew the arm of her new couch.
After a bit of digging, we discovered Max was dealing with boredom and mild separation anxiety. Here’s what worked:
Sarah started giving Max a stuffed frozen Kong before leaving the house
She set up a cozy crate space with his blanket and calming music
Walks were increased from 20 minutes to a full hour in the morning
Within 3 weeks, the chewing was reduced dramatically
This is a perfect example of how simple changes can bring real results.
Chewing isn’t a sign your dog is bad or disobedient. It’s often their way of communicating a need or coping with stress. By taking the time to understand what’s behind the behavior, you’re not just saving your belongings but you’re building a stronger, more trusting relationship with your furry companion.
Patience, consistency, and compassion are your best tools here. Just remember: every chew has a story behind it.
Have questions or success stories to share? Drop a comment or join our pet care community on Lalazilla!
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