The Truth Behind Why Your Dog Chews Everything You Own
Matthew Russell
Photo: Pexels
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, but when they turn their attention to furniture or other off-limits items, it can become a problem for their owners. While it might be frustrating, understanding the reasons behind this behavior can help pet parents address it effectively.
Whether it’s a curious puppy or an anxious adult dog, chewing is an instinctual way for dogs to explore their environment and alleviate discomfort or boredom.

Understanding the Chewing Instinct
Dogs, especially puppies, chew for a variety of reasons. For puppies, the teething process is a major cause. As their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth emerge, chewing provides comfort and relief from the soreness in their gums. According to the Hill’s Pet website, puppies will often chew on furniture or other items to soothe their gums, much like human babies do when they teethe. This phase typically ends after six months, but until then, puppies need appropriate chew toys to help direct their instincts away from your furniture.
Adult dogs, on the other hand, may chew due to stress, boredom, or a lack of stimulation. The Hastings Veterinary blog explains that dogs often chew as a way to self-soothe, especially when they are anxious or stressed. Separation anxiety, in particular, is a common cause of destructive chewing, as dogs may chew on furniture or household items when left alone to cope with the stress of their owners' absence. This is also true for dogs who experience anxiety from loud noises or unfamiliar situations.
Factors Contributing to Destructive Chewing
Several factors can drive dogs to chew on inappropriate items. The ASPCA outlines various causes, including teething in puppies, the need to keep their jaws strong and clean in adult dogs, and the natural instinct to chew on bones or objects found during exploration. However, when a dog does not have appropriate chew toys or becomes bored, they may turn to furniture, shoes, or even remote controls for something to gnaw on. The Whole Dog Journal stresses that it's important for pet owners to provide enough toys and distractions to avoid destructive chewing behaviors.

Preventing Furniture Chewing
One of the first steps to stop destructive chewing is understanding the root cause. Dogs chew to relieve pain, boredom, or anxiety, but identifying the underlying reason allows for more effective solutions. For instance, if a dog chews due to boredom, ensuring they have sufficient physical and mental exercise is essential. The Humane Society suggests providing a variety of stimulating toys, along with regular exercise, to help alleviate boredom and reduce destructive behaviors.
Additionally, creating a dog-friendly environment by limiting access to valuable household items can help prevent destructive chewing. Keep shoes, books, and furniture out of reach, and instead, offer your dog a selection of chew toys that are specifically designed for them. These toys should be distinguishable from household items, as confusing your dog with inappropriate items can lead to them chewing on things they shouldn’t. The Hill's Pet guide emphasizes the importance of choosing the right chew toys to redirect your dog’s behavior.

Dealing with Separation Anxiety
For dogs suffering from separation anxiety, chewing can be a coping mechanism to relieve their distress when left alone. According to the Hastings Veterinary blog, dogs may chew intensely when they are separated from their owners or familiar companions. In such cases, it’s crucial to address the anxiety itself. The ASPCA suggests consulting with a behaviorist or veterinarian to help manage separation anxiety and prevent destructive chewing. Strategies like desensitization, counter-conditioning, and providing comfort through calming products can help alleviate this stress.

What to Do If Your Dog Chews on Furniture
When your dog begins chewing on furniture, it’s important to take immediate action. The Whole Dog Journal recommends using positive reinforcement techniques. If you catch your dog chewing on something inappropriate, offer them an acceptable chew toy and praise them when they switch to the toy. Punishing a dog after the fact is ineffective because dogs cannot associate past actions with punishment. Instead, use clear and consistent commands to redirect their behavior.
Additionally, applying deterrent sprays to furniture or other items can be helpful, though these are often not a long-term solution. The Humane Society advises that these sprays should be used alongside other methods, such as providing appropriate chew toys and ensuring your dog receives plenty of exercise.

While chewing is a normal behavior for dogs, it can become a frustrating issue when they turn to furniture or other household items. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior and addressing them with the right tools and techniques can help resolve the problem. Providing proper chew toys, ensuring your dog has plenty of physical and mental stimulation, and addressing any anxiety issues are essential steps toward curbing destructive chewing. By being proactive and patient, you can help your dog learn what’s acceptable to chew and keep your furniture safe.

Matthew Russell is a West Michigan native and with a background in journalism, data analysis, cartography and design thinking. He likes to learn new things and solve old problems whenever possible, and enjoys bicycling, spending time with his daughters, and coffee.