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If your dog won’t stop chewing everything that you own, you’re not alone. Even with all the toys in the world, it’s possible that your dog will still choose your shoes or furniture. So how do you redirect this behavior to get them interested in their toys instead of ruining your stuff?
In This Article
Why Dogs May Prefer to Chew Your Stuff
In a dog’s mind, if something is within reach then it’s on offer. Certain items are especially appealing: eyeglasses, books, cell phones, television remotes, pillows and upholstery. Plastic is wonderfully chewy and when it has our smell, it can be irresistible.
Young Puppies May Be Teething
It’s normal for puppies to have their mouths on everything. From nipping to teething, it seems like puppies’ little teeth are on everything. But why do young puppies have a focus on your things instead of their toys?
Nothing is off limits to puppies. They have a mouthful of shiny new teeth, and they need appropriate puppy toys to use them on. By around 6 months of age, they have their adult teeth. At this point, they may stop chewing as much, but boredom can give them a reason to take up the habit again.
Excessive Chewing In Older Dogs
Unlike puppies, chewing in older dogs on anything and everything could be caused by something completely different. If your dog isn’t getting enough exercise or mental stimulation, they might act out by chewing on things they know they’re not supposed to. It’s possible that their toys are not as appealing to them as your shoes, so you may need to invest in different kinds of toys that meet your dog’s needs.
Excessive chewing could also, in some cases, be a sign of pain in the mouth, teeth or gums. Look for signs of gingevitis, and ask your vet if this could be the cause of excessive chewing.
How to Stop Dogs From Chewing Your Things
The only 100% effective way to save your possessions from destruction is to keep them out of your dog’s reach. If eviscerating upholstered furniture is a hobby, keep your dog in a crate or a gated dog-proof room when unsupervised. Stuff hollow rubber toys with treats or moistened kibble and give them to your dog when you are away, so they’ll still have something to do when you’re gone.
Just like human toddlers, puppies and dogs can benefit from a completely puppy-proofed area, either a dog crate or pet gated room. If your puppy grabs a forbidden item while you are watching them, quickly distract them with a sharp “Eh eh!” and when they drop it, redirect cheerfully with a toy that they’re allowed to have. This will help redirect their behavior.
How to Redirect Chewing
Dog Sports or Tricks
Teaching tricks is a good way to give your pup appropriate outlets. A good one to start with is “Leave it.”
Insufficient exercise and mental stimulation can drive your dog to find destructive forms of entertainment, so it’s up to you to meet their needs. If ugly winter weather keeps you inside, play indoor dog games with them. Fetch, hide and seek, and tug-of-war (played correctly) are great fun and exercise for both of you.
Dog Puzzles and Mental Stimulation
There are many entertaining dog puzzles on the market, too, and you can even make your own. Just remember that many of these are meant to be enjoyed with you and not left alone with your dog.
Why Doesn’t My Dog Chew Their Toys
What about all those wonderful toys that your dog has? If they are lying around all the time, they aren’t special. Rotate them, only having two or three, at most, available at a time.
Keep favorites out of their reach, only to be used when playing with you. That’s what keeps it special. Time with you is their favorite toy of all!
Key Takeaways
- Puppies commonly chew because they’re teething and exploring their environment.
- Adult dogs often chew destructively because of boredom, insufficient exercise, or lack of enrichment.
- Managing the environment and removing access to tempting items helps prevent accidents.
- Redirecting dogs to appropriate chew toys is more effective than punishment.
- Physical exercise, training, enrichment, and toy rotation can reduce destructive chewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
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At what age do dogs typically stop chewing everything?
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Many puppies chew less once their adult teeth come in at around 6 months of age. However, some dogs continue chewing because of boredom, habit, or a lack of physical and mental stimulation.
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Do puppies grow out of chewing on everything?
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Often, yes. Teething-related chewing typically decreases as puppies mature, but chewing can continue if a dog is under-exercised, under-stimulated, or hasn’t been taught appropriate chewing habits.
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Why does my dog chew things but not their toys?
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Some dogs find household items more rewarding because they carry human scent, have appealing textures, or provide novelty. Rotating toys and providing more engaging chew options can help increase toy interest.
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Will crate training help stop destructive chewing?
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It can influence growth timing slightly, but overall size is primarily determined by breed, genetics, and nutrition.