How to Stop Destructive Chewing

Why dogs and puppies chew (and what to do for each reason)

Chewing is a normal and healthy behavior for dogs and puppies, though the motivation behind it can vary widely. Understanding why your dog chews makes it easier to respond with solutions that support their physical and emotional needs at every life stage. And remember, those life stages will eventually include adult, when those little teeth are a lot bigger!

If you’re wondering how to stop my dog from chewing everything, look at the why first. Recognizing the reason behind your dog’s chewing can help you tailor solutions that meet their individual needs. The most common reasons include:

Teething (Puppies):

Puppies chew to relieve sore gums as new teeth erupt. Durable puppy teething toys designed to massage gums can provide relief and help protect household items. Some pet parents chill approved toys for added comfort; always follow product instructions regarding freezing or simply refrigerating the toys, as some teething chews may break if frozen.

Exploring their world:

Dogs naturally use their mouths to investigate new sights, smells and textures. Creating safe, supervised spaces stocked with appropriate chew toys or enrichment puzzles helps channel this curiosity productively.

Boredom or excess energy:

Chewing provides entertainment and a way to release pent-up energy. Interactive toys and regular play sessions can help redirect this energy. Many pet parents also rotate toys to help keep things interesting and prevent destructive habits by encouraging their pet to chew on appropriate items.

Anxiety or stress:

Stressful changes and separation anxiety may trigger chewing as a coping behavior. Ensuring your dog gets plenty of mental and physical exercise, providing comfort items, predictable routines and treat-dispensing toys can help. If anxiety-driven chewing persists, a veterinarian can guide next steps.

Attention-seeking:

Chewing can draw attention—even if it’s negative. Respond calmly, redirect to a suitable toy and reward your dog when they choose positive alternatives.

Step by step: How to stop destructive chewing

A proactive approach focused on understanding and meeting your dog’s needs helps your dog “chews wisely” and prevents most gnawing mishaps. Here are some easy ways to get started.

1. Survey your space: Get down to your dog’s level and look for tempting items—shoes, clothes, cords, children’s toys, bags and anything else you want to keep out of reach. Note: This is a good reminder not to give your dog an old shoe to play with; they won’t know the difference between acceptable old shoes and off-limits new shoes.

2. Secure and tidy: Stash away personal belongings, use cord organizers and keep laundry hampers closed. Many pet parents find baby gates or playpens helpful for blocking access to certain rooms.

3. Choose appropriate chew toys: Select toys labeled for your dog’s size, age and chewing style. Durable materials are essential and rotating toys keeps interest high.

4. Provide enrichment: Regularly engage your dog with puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls or supervised play sessions. Your dog can’t go join a gym or a book club, so you need to provide mentally stimulating activities, which are a win-win—they help reduce boredom-related chewing and further build the bond between you and your dog.

5. Supervise and redirect: Watch closely during playtime. If your dog grabs an off-limits item, calmly swap it for an approved toy and praise them for making good choices.

6. Regular checkups: Inspect toys for wear and replace damaged ones to avoid accidental ingestion of torn pieces. This also goes for cloth toys that can become frayed and risk getting caught on a tooth or nail.

Recommended chew toys for every stage

Many pet parents rely on a mix of safe chew toys to encourage variety while providing safe outlets. Some are for specific ages or preferences, while others can be used by most dogs.

• Puppy teething rings or soft, textured toys for young dogs
• Durable rubber or nylon chews for heavy chewers
• Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys to stimulate curiosity and mental energy
• Training and enrichment aids, like clickers or snuffle mats, to reinforce positive behaviors

Petco carries a wide selection of chew toys and enrichment products for every life stage. Always match toys to your dog’s size and chewing style, and supervise play, especially with new products.

Enrichment strategies

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Introduce puzzle toys and chew-specific toys to channel chewing energy productively. Rotating enrichment options helps prevent novelty from wearing off and can reduce destructive habits.

Redirection and positive guidance

When chewing an off-limits item happens, respond calmly. Redirect your dog to an approved chew, calmly remove or restrict access to the forbidden item and reward with praise or treats. Consistency helps dogs learn faster and builds trust rather than fear.

Key takeaways

Below are 6 key elements to keep in mind when it comes to training your dog not to chew.

1. Look for the reasons behind chewing; address the root causes.
2. Use praise when you redirect your dog to an appropriate chew toy. This boosts learning and their feelings of security.
3. Consider a dog’s eye view: don’t leave valuable or dangerous items within reach.
4. Offer variety in chew toy sizes and textures; rotate them periodically to maintain interest.
5. Offer enrichment toys, which often exercise your dog’s mouth and brain.
6. Routinely inspect your dog’s chew toys for safety.

With consistent routines, appropriate toys and an understanding of your dog's needs, you can protect your home and help your pet thrive—even during challenging teething or alone-time periods. If chewing issues persist or become severe, a veterinarian or qualified dog trainer can help explore solutions.