Dog Chewing on Everything? How to Stop It

Why Dogs Chew on Everything

Dogs chew for several instinctual and developmental reasons. Puppies often chew because they’re teething—just like human babies—and the pressure helps relieve gum pain. Even after teething ends, many dogs continue using their mouths to explore their environment, as their sense of taste develops before sight and hearing. This natural curiosity can lead to chewing on shoes, furniture, or cords. Older dogs may chew due to boredom, pent-up energy, or anxiety. Some dogs also chew because it feels good or has become a long-standing habit. If chewing is linked to fear or separation anxiety, it requires specific attention beyond basic training.

Stop Chewing with Supervision and Prevention

The most effective way to stop destructive chewing is to control your dog’s environment. Supervision is key—your dog can’t chew your favorite shoes if you’re watching them. Prevent access to tempting items by storing shoes behind closed doors, using toy boxes with lids, and securing trash bins. For puppies, dog-proofing the home before bringing them home is essential. This proactive step helps avoid reinforcing bad habits early on. Even older dogs with ingrained chewing habits benefit from a controlled space where they’re less likely to find forbidden items.

Redirect Chewing with the Right Toys

Instead of just saying “no,” teach your dog what they *can* chew. Offer a variety of durable, safe chew toys—such as bones, antlers, or heavy-duty rubber toys—so your dog has appealing alternatives. Experiment to find what your dog prefers. When you catch your dog chewing something inappropriate, calmly replace it with a proper chew toy. Immediately click and reward them when they start chewing the right item. This teaches them the difference between acceptable and unacceptable items through positive reinforcement.

Use Training to Build Better Habits

Consistent training helps your dog learn what’s allowed. Use a cue like “chew” or “toy” when they pick up an appropriate item. Click and reward every time they choose the right toy. Over time, they’ll associate the cue with the correct behavior. For more stubborn habits, try the “one irresistible thing” method: tie a favorite item (like a shoe) to your dog’s collar for a short time under supervision. The overexposure can reduce its appeal. This method works best when your dog has a specific obsession and you can supervise closely.

Avoid Punishment and Focus on Solutions

Never grab your dog or the object during chewing—this can confuse or frighten them. Instead, use a firm but calm “no” or a quick grunt to redirect attention. Avoid long reprimands, as they can cause confusion or shut down communication. If your dog is chewing due to anxiety or separation issues, consult specialized resources for those problems. The goal is not to stop chewing entirely—dogs need to chew—but to redirect it to safe, acceptable items.