How to Stop Your Dog from Chewing Furniture

Why Dogs Chew Furniture

Dogs chew furniture for reasons like boredom, teething, anxiety, or simply exploring their environment. Puppies are especially prone to chewing as they investigate the world with their mouths. Older dogs may chew due to habit or stress, including separation anxiety. The key is understanding that dogs don’t inherently know what’s “off-limits”—they only learn what’s safe or dangerous through experience. Without clear boundaries, they’ll keep testing items like couches, shoes, and rugs.

Prevent Access to Problem Areas

The best way to stop chewing is to prevent the opportunity. Keep shoes, trash, and other tempting items out of reach—behind closed doors or in cabinets. For furniture, use deterrents like Bitter Apple spray on legs or edges. Apply it discreetly and refresh daily until your dog stops trying. You can also use wintergreen oil, which has a strong smell dogs dislike. Never leave your dog unsupervised in areas with accessible furniture unless it’s dog-proofed or confined.

Redirect with Appropriate Chew Toys

Instead of punishing your dog, redirect their chewing to acceptable items. Always have a variety of chew toys on hand—rubber toys, rawhides, or vet-approved chews. When you catch your dog chewing furniture, calmly replace it with a toy. Click and treat immediately when they switch to the toy. This teaches them that chewing the right thing leads to rewards. Over time, use a cue like “chew” or “toy” to help them associate the command with the correct behavior.

Use Training to Build Good Habits

Consistency is crucial. Use “sting operations”—set up situations where your dog might chew something inappropriate, then catch them early and redirect. This works best when you’re actively watching and ready to intervene. If your dog bites during petting or grooming, freeze and stop interaction for 10–15 seconds. Then reward calm behavior like licking or nuzzling with a click and treat. This teaches them that good behavior leads to attention, not biting.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Never chase your dog when they have something forbidden—this feels like a game. Instead, say “No, drop it” and offer a toy. Don’t give old shoes as chew toys if you don’t want your dog chewing new ones. Avoid manhandling or playing when they bite, as this can reinforce the behavior. Also, don’t wait until your dog has already damaged something to act—intervene the moment they start chewing.