What to Do When Your Dog is Chewing on Furniture: Quick Solutions You Need to Know

Understanding the Causes of Destructive Chewing

If your dog is chewing your furniture, shoes, or anything else that’s not meant for chewing, you’re not alone. Destructive chewing is one of the most common behavior problems dog owners face, but before you start getting frustrated, it’s important to understand why your dog is chewing in the first place.

 

Chewing is a completely natural and instinctive behavior for dogs, and it can serve a number of purposes. However, when it becomes destructive, it’s usually a sign that something’s not quite right. Dogs may chew due to boredom, anxiety, teething, or simply because they are trying to relieve stress. Understanding the root cause of your dog’s chewing habits is the first step in addressing the issue and helping them stop.

 

Common Causes of Destructive Chewing

Let’s explore some of the common reasons why dogs chew on inappropriate items like furniture:

 

1. Boredom and Lack of Stimulation

Dogs, especially energetic breeds, require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them occupied. If they don’t get enough exercise or engaging activities, they may resort to chewing to pass the time or entertain themselves.

“Your dog’s not bad; they’re bored. Feed their brain and watch behaviors you dread simply fade away.”

2. Teething and Puppies

Puppies go through a teething phase, much like human babies. This is typically between the ages of 3 and 6 months, and during this time, they may chew on furniture, shoes, and anything else they can find to relieve the discomfort of growing teeth.

 

3. Anxiety or Stress

Dogs that suffer from anxiety, particularly separation anxiety, may chew on furniture as a way to self-soothe. Stressful situations, such as being left alone or changes in the household, can trigger this behavior.

 

4. Attention Seeking

Sometimes, dogs chew simply to get attention. If they notice that chewing on furniture or other items gets a reaction from you, whether it’s negative (like scolding) or positive (like laughing or giving them attention), they may continue the behavior.

 

5. Exploring Their Environment

Dogs explore the world around them with their mouths. This is particularly true for puppies, who are naturally curious about their environment. Chewing is one of the ways they learn about the world.

 

6. Hunger or Poor Diet

If your dog isn’t getting enough nutrients in their diet, they may chew to compensate for the lack of satisfaction. Additionally, dogs may chew when they’re hungry or seeking food.

 

Effective Solutions for Stopping Destructive Chewing

Now that you have a better understanding of why your dog is chewing on furniture, let’s explore some practical and effective strategies to help stop the behavior. These solutions address the root causes of chewing and teach your dog what they should chew on instead.

 

1. Provide Plenty of Chew Toys

One of the simplest ways to prevent your dog from chewing on furniture is to give them plenty of acceptable alternatives. Provide a variety of chew toys that are designed for dogs to chew on. There are many types of chew toys available, from rubber toys to natural bones, so choose a few that suit your dog’s chewing style.

• Interactive Chew Toys: Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys are perfect for keeping your dog mentally stimulated and distracted from chewing your furniture.
• Long Lasting Chew Toys: For heavy chewers, durable chew toys like Kongs or Nylabones can withstand hours of chewing and are a great way to redirect their chewing behavior.

 

2. Increase Physical and Mental Stimulation

If your dog is chewing out of boredom or excess energy, the solution may lie in providing more physical and mental stimulation. Regular exercise and mental challenges can reduce the desire to chew destructively.

• Daily Walks: Make sure to provide your dog with plenty of physical exercise, such as daily walks, runs, or play sessions. A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behavior.
• Training Sessions: Engaging your dog in short, positive training sessions throughout the day can provide mental stimulation. Teach them new commands or tricks and reward them with treats for following through.
• Interactive Play: Games like fetch or tug-of-war help your dog burn energy in a productive way, keeping them engaged and happy.

 

3. Crate Training for Safe Containment

When you’re not around to supervise your dog, crate training can help prevent destructive chewing. A crate provides your dog with a safe and secure space, preventing them from getting into trouble when left alone. Most dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a crate can also be helpful for potty training.

• Make the Crate Comfortable: Add a soft bed or blanket and some favorite toys to create a comfortable space where your dog feels safe and secure.
• Gradual Crate Training: If your dog is not accustomed to being in a crate, start by introducing them to it gradually. Begin by leaving the crate door open while they explore, then slowly increase the amount of time they spend in it.

 

4. Redirect Chewing Behavior

If you catch your dog chewing on furniture or other inappropriate items, it’s important to redirect them to a chew toy immediately. Never punish your dog for chewing; instead, focus on rewarding them when they chew on acceptable items.

• Firm “No”: When you catch your dog chewing on something they shouldn’t, say “No” firmly and immediately provide them with an appropriate chew toy.
• Reward with Praise: Once your dog begins chewing on the correct toy, praise them and offer a treat. This helps them understand that chewing on the right things brings positive rewards.

 

5. Use Deterrent Sprays

If your dog is particularly persistent about chewing on furniture, consider using a chew deterrent spray. These sprays have a bitter taste that dogs find unpleasant, discouraging them from chewing on the targeted areas.

• Apply to Furniture: Spray the furniture or other items you want to protect from chewing. Make sure to reapply the spray regularly for continued effectiveness.
• Safe for Dogs: Choose a non-toxic, dog-safe deterrent spray to ensure that it’s safe for your pet.

 

6. Address Anxiety or Stress

If your dog’s chewing is linked to anxiety or stress, such as separation anxiety, you’ll need to address the underlying emotional issues.

• Separation Anxiety Solutions: Gradual desensitization can help reduce your dog’s separation anxiety. Start by leaving them alone for short periods and gradually increase the time. You can also try providing calming products like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps.
• Create a Calming Environment: Make sure your dog’s environment is calm and comfortable. A cozy bed, a routine, and calming activities like gentle petting can help reduce anxiety-related chewing.

 

7. Consult a Professional Trainer

If your dog’s destructive chewing continues despite your best efforts, it may be time to consult a professional dog trainer. A trainer can assess your dog’s behavior and create a personalized training plan to address the issue.

• Behavioral Training: A professional trainer can help teach your dog appropriate chewing behaviors and address any underlying behavioral issues.
• Veterinary Consultation: In some cases, destructive chewing may be linked to medical issues or nutritional deficiencies. If you suspect this is the case, a visit to the veterinarian may be necessary.

 

Conclusion: A Chew Safe Home Is Possible

Destructive chewing can be frustrating, but with patience, consistency, and the right strategies, you can help your dog break the habit and learn what to chew on. Providing acceptable chew toys, increasing physical and mental stimulation, and using positive reinforcement are key components of a successful training plan.

“Click before your dog steals another shoe this brain trick works wonders!”

Remember, chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, and with the right approach, it can be redirected into positive habits. Stay patient and consistent, and soon your dog will learn to keep their teeth off your furniture and focused on their toys instead.

 

List of References

• American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Dog Behavior Problems: Destructive Chewing. Retrieved from www.akc.org
• Fogle, B. (2012). The Complete Dog Training Manual. DK Publishing.
• ASPCA. (n.d.). Managing Dog Behavior Problems. Retrieved from www.aspca.org