Why Dogs Chew Everything — And How to Stop It
We’ve all been there — you come home to find your dog has chewed your shoes, furniture, or even the baseboards. Chewing can be frustrating and expensive, but it’s a normal part of dog behavior. The key is understanding why your dog is chewing and how to redirect that behavior the right way.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common reasons dogs chew and how to stop destructive chewing for good.
1. Teething in Puppies
Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething phase. Between 3 to 6 months of age, they chew to relieve gum pain and to help their adult teeth come in.
✅ How to help:
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Give puppy-safe chew toys designed for teething
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Freeze toys or damp cloths for soothing relief
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Supervise and redirect to appropriate items
This phase is temporary — the right tools make a big difference!
2. Boredom or Lack of Exercise
A bored dog is a destructive dog. Without physical or mental outlets, they’ll find their own entertainment — and chewing is a favorite.
✅ How to help:
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Increase exercise with daily walks or runs
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Use interactive toys or food puzzles to engage their mind
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Rotate toys weekly to keep them interesting
Try our dual retractable leash to add variety and bonding time to daily walks!
3. Separation Anxiety
Dogs who chew while you’re away might be struggling with anxiety or stress. Chewing releases endorphins that help them cope.
✅ How to help:
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Create a safe, comforting space
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Leave chew toys or treat-dispensing toys when you’re gone
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Practice short absences with calm returns
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Try calming aids like pheromone sprays or anxiety wraps
4. Hunger or Nutritional Deficiency
Some dogs chew due to hunger — especially if they’re on a low-calorie diet or not getting enough chewing satisfaction through food.
✅ How to help:
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Feed smaller meals throughout the day
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Add crunchy, chewable treats to their routine
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Check with your vet to ensure your dog’s diet is balanced
5. Curiosity & Exploration
Dogs explore the world with their mouths — especially young dogs or high-energy breeds. Sometimes chewing is just their way of saying, “What is this?”
✅ How to help:
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Puppy-proof your home
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Keep shoes, chargers, and valuables out of reach
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Offer plenty of safe, engaging chew alternatives
Best Products to Help Stop Chewing
🦴 Durable chew toys (rubber, rope, or natural)
🎾 Puzzle feeders to keep them busy
🛑 Bitter sprays to discourage chewing furniture
🐾 Comfortable, supervised crate training
🐕 Dual-leash walking tools to reduce excess energy
Final Thoughts
Chewing isn’t bad — it’s natural. The key is to redirect chewing to safe, appropriate items and give your dog what they really need: stimulation, comfort, and consistency.
With a little patience and the right tools, you can protect your belongings and keep your dog happy, healthy, and mentally satisfied.
👉 Check out our dog-tested accessories and enrichment tools at The Pawzzle — made for real-life dog parents like you.