7 Tricks to Stop Dog Chewing

1. Understand Why Your Dog is Chewing

Dogs chew for many reasons—teething, boredom, stress, or curiosity.

By understanding the root cause, you can choose the right solution.

Puppies chew to relieve discomfort from teething, which peaks between 4 and 6 months.

Adult dogs may chew out of boredom, anxiety, or frustration.

Observe your dog’s chewing patterns:

Does it happen when they’re alone?
Are they attracted to specific textures or items?

This will give you clues about the cause.

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Quick Tip: If you hear chewing while away, it may signal anxiety or boredom.

Identifying the reason behind the chewing is the first step in finding the best solution.

Example: Bailey, a two-year-old Lab, chewed excessively whenever her owner left the house.

After noticing this, her owner used calming techniques and puzzle toys.

They reduced the chewing a lot.

2. Provide Plenty of Chew Toys

Every dog needs an outlet for their chewing instinct, and chew toys are the perfect solution.

The key is to choose toys that match your dog’s chewing style.

For aggressive chewers, look for durable rubber toys or nylon bones.

Gentle chewers may enjoy softer toys or plush options.

Rotate toys to keep things interesting.

When you give them a new toy, they’re less likely to get bored and move on to other items.

Fun Fact: Studies show dogs prefer old, unseen toys. Rotating toys keeps them interested.

Providing the right toys encourages them to chew safely and happily.

Types of Chew Toys:

Rubber Toys: Ideal for strong chewers as they’re durable and satisfying.
Rope Toys: Great for interactive play, especially with dogs who love tugging.
Edible Chews: Satisfy natural chewing instincts, but check to avoid overeating.
Soft Toys: Best for gentle chewers and dogs who enjoy plush toys.

Toy Rotation Tip: Keep a stash of toys and rotate them weekly.

This keeps your dog interested and prevents toy fatigue.

It’s when familiar toys lose their appeal.

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3. Use Deterrent Sprays on Off-Limits Items

Sometimes dogs need a reminder of what’s off-limits.

Deterrent sprays taste bitter.

This stops dogs from chewing treated items.

Look for a safe, pet-friendly deterrent spray designed specifically for household items.

Spray it on furniture, shoes, or other areas that are common targets.

How to Use: Test a small area first to make sure it won’t damage fabrics or materials.

If your dog tries to chew, they’ll get an unpleasant taste, which should help reduce interest.

Alternative Deterrents:

Apple Cider Vinegar: Diluted vinegar can act as a natural deterrent, but test it on surfaces first.
Citrus-Based Deterrents: Some dogs dislike citrus smells. This can deter them.

Quick Tip: Reapply the deterrent regularly at first to reinforce the boundary.

With consistent use, your dog will learn which items are best left alone.

Real-Life Success: A pet owner used deterrent spray on the table legs that her dog, Cooper, loved to chew.

After a week of use, Cooper stopped chewing the table. He now plays with his toys.

4. Teach the “Leave It” Command

“Leave it” is one of the most useful commands you can teach your dog.

It not only helps with chewing but also keeps your dog safe from potential hazards.

Start training with a treat:

Hold a treat in your hand and say, “Leave it.”
When your dog stops trying to get the treat, reward them with a different treat.
Practice regularly to reinforce the command.

Once your dog learns “leave it,” you can use it to redirect them from inappropriate chewing.

Troubleshooting Tips:

Stubbornness: If your dog resists, try a better treat, like chicken or cheese.
Overstimulation: Train in a quiet area first, then gradually introduce distractions.

Pro Tip: Practice “leave it” often, even in low-stress times.

It helps your dog respond better in critical moments.

With patience and practice, “leave it” becomes a valuable tool for redirection.

Example: Lucy, a Golden Retriever, learned “leave it” in just a few days.

Her owner used the command whenever Lucy approached off-limits items.

Over time, Lucy avoided those items without being prompted.

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5. Exercise Your Dog Regularly

A tired dog is a well-behaved dog.

One of the most common reasons for destructive chewing is pent-up energy.

Regular exercise reduces boredom and frustration, helping to prevent unwanted chewing behaviors.

Daily walks, play sessions, or even dog sports can make a big difference.

Exercise stimulates your dog’s body and mind.

It meets their needs.

If you’re short on time, try puzzle toys or training sessions to keep them engaged.

Fun Fact: Mental exercise tires dogs as much as physical activity.

So, they are less likely to chew things.

Keeping your dog active and engaged is a powerful way to reduce destructive habits.

Environmental Enrichment Ideas:

Puzzle Toys: Make your dog work for treats, providing mental stimulation.
Sniff Mats: Allow dogs to engage their sense of smell, a natural form of enrichment.
Interactive Games: Play hide-and-seek with treats or toys. It will engage them both mentally and physically.

Enrich your dog’s environment. It keeps them fulfilled and prevents boredom-induced chewing.

6. Use a Crate or Playpen When You’re Away

When you can’t supervise your dog, a crate or playpen is a safe way to prevent destructive chewing.

It gives your dog a secure, designated space where they won’t have access to household items.

The crate should be associated with calmness and relaxation, not punishment.

Place a few chew toys or treats inside the crate to keep them entertained.

Introduce the crate gradually, rewarding your dog for calm behavior while inside.

Quick Tip: Start with short periods in the crate and build up over time to help them adjust comfortably.

Containing your dog when unsupervised not only prevents chewing but also teaches boundaries.

Benefits of Crate Training:

Safety: Protects your dog from hazards around the house.
Calming: Provides a secure environment, teaching them self-soothing techniques.
Boundaries: Reinforces that some areas and items are off-limits.

Comfort Tips:

Soft Bedding: Make the crate inviting with a cozy blanket.
Favorite Toys: Include chew-safe toys to make crate time enjoyable.
Gradual Introduction: Build up crate time slowly to prevent anxiety.

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7. Reward Positive Chewing Behavior

Dogs love praise, treats, and attention, so use these to reinforce good chewing habits.

Each time you see your dog chewing on an appropriate item, give them a reward.

This could be verbal praise, a treat, or even a quick play session.

Positive reinforcement encourages them to choose their toys over household items.

Training Insight: Consistent rewards build good habits.

They make your dog seek their chew toys.

The more you reward good behavior, the less they’ll seek alternatives, like shoes or furniture.

Effective Rewards:

High-Value Treats: Use special treats to reinforce good behavior.
Praise and Petting: Simple praise can be a great motivator for some dogs.
Occasional Toy Rewards: Offer a new toy or long-lasting chew as a special reward.

Long-Term Reinforcement: Gradually reduce treats over time. Shift to praise to keep the good behavior without a dependence on food.

Additional Tips for Long-Term Success

These extra tips will help you manage chewing in the long run:

Be Patient and Consistent: Teaching good habits takes time. So, use these tricks consistently.
Put Valuables Out of Reach: If some objects are tempting, hide them. This will avoid the issue.
Know When to Seek Help: If your dog chews excessively or shows other signs of anxiety, consult a trainer or vet.

With time, patience, and a positive approach, you can improve your dog’s chewing.

Recognizing Progress

As you apply these tricks, you’ll notice signs that your dog’s chewing habits are improving:

Choosing Chew Toys Over Household Items: Your dog may seek their toys when they want to chew. This shows they know what’s allowed.
Faster Response to “Leave It” Command: With practice, your dog will quickly respond to “leave it.” It will also care less about off-limits items.
Less Destructive Behavior When Alone: If crate training, exercise, and environmental enrichment are working, you’ll see reduced chewing when your dog is left unsupervised.

Tracking these signs will show you which methods work best.

It will motivate you to stay consistent.

Tip for Monitoring Progress: Keep a small log or journal of your dog’s chewing behavior.

Note improvements, such as fewer incidents or more interest in toys.

This helps you adapt strategies if needed and celebrate progress.

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Long-Term Tips for Success:

Rotate Toys Regularly: To keep their interest, rotate in new or hidden toys.
Consistent Training: Regularly reinforce “leave it” and other commands to keep skills sharp.
Adapting as They Grow: Puppies need different things than adults. So, adjust your strategies as your dog matures.

Conclusion

Chewing doesn’t have to be a permanent problem.

You can save your belongings and help your dog.

The right approach will guide your dog to healthier habits.

These seven tricks provide practical, positive solutions for managing chewing behavior.

Each step aims to create a more peaceful home for you and your dog.

It goes from finding the root cause to rewarding good behavior.

Are you ready to stop the chewing for good?

Start applying these tricks today, and enjoy a happier, chew-free life with your dog.

With time, patience, and praise, you’ll help your dog.

He’ll become a happy, well-behaved companion.

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