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Dog behavior basics: How to stop a dog chewing on furniture

by Nicki Warner 06/13/2023

Owners of both young dogs and adult dogs often wonder how to stop a dog chewing things around the house. Damage to furniture, interior trim, clothing and other items caused by inappropriate chewing can be frustrating, but there are ways you can address the issue.

Here are some common reasons why dogs chew and ways to help prevent it:

Why puppies chew on things

Puppies like to chew on things as a way of exploring. However, excessive chewing is usually due to teething. Just like human babies, puppies can experience pain or discomfort in their gums from new teeth growing in. Chewing on anything and everything available might be their way of trying to relieve pain.

Why dogs chew when you leave the house

Many dog owners have experienced the horror of returning home to destroyed furniture, shoes or other objects after leaving their pup alone for a while. If your dog is chewing on things when you leave the house, they may be experiencing separation anxiety. 

In addition to missing you, they may simply be bored. Make sure to have plenty of appropriate chew toys available to keep them occupied while you’re away. Toys that dispense food, like puzzle feeders, are another great option for curing dog boredom.  

How to discourage your dog from chewing on wood

Wood trim and furniture are common victims of a dog’s destructive chewing. After addressing any behavioral issues that could be causing them to chew on wood - such as anxiety or boredom - you can use chewing deterrents to keep them away from wood surfaces. 

Supplies to stop your dog from chewing

Chew deterrents, such as bitter apple spray, are an effective way to discourage chewing on furniture, shoes and other items. There are several options available on the market, but you can also make your own deterrent spray with apple cider vinegar and water.

Combining a chew deterrent with the right chew toy can often be enough to keep your dog from inappropriate chewing. However, it’s always best to tackle the behavioral issues first. If you’re ever uncertain about what to do next, consult your vet for expert advice.

About the Author
Author

Nicki Warner

Nicki has a passion for building relationships and fostering community engagement, honored and enthusiastic about joining the MMFRE team. An Oakland County native, she, along with her three children, make Clarkston their home. Having an in-depth knowledge of the area and all the lakes have to offer, her insightfulness equates to rewards to all that are purchasing (and/or) selling their most valuable asset.

Armed with a Michigan State University (MSU) degree as well as 10 years of business experience in advertising and marketing, Nicki's "silver lining" shines through when it comes to showcasing properties for the "highest" and "best" results in this fast-paced, competitive industry.

She's "people person" at heart and enthusiastic about delivering results, you're sure to get to a successful finish line as my resourceful package of approachability, talent, resourcefulness, creativity, cheery attitude and honest hard work is yours for the asking.