How to Stop Your Dog from Chewing When Alone

Why Dogs Chew When Left Alone

Dogs chew for many reasons—boredom, teething, anxiety, or pent-up energy. Puppies especially need to chew to relieve discomfort from growing teeth. Older dogs may chew out of habit or due to lack of exercise and mental stimulation. If your dog chews when you're gone, it's often not defiance, but a sign they're seeking relief or entertainment. Chewing on dangerous items like electrical cords or toxic substances can lead to injury or illness, so addressing the behavior early is crucial.

Prevent Access to Forbidden Items

The best way to stop chewing is to stop the opportunity. Before training begins, dog-proof your home. Keep shoes, socks, and other tempting items out of reach. Secure trash cans, use baby gates on cabinets with cleaning supplies, and unplug cords. For puppies, this is especially important—prevention is easier than correction. Use crates, playpens, or gated rooms to confine your dog when you can’t supervise them. This reduces the chance of destructive behavior and helps build good habits.

Provide Safe and Engaging Chew Alternatives

Dogs need something safe to chew. Offer age-appropriate toys, durable rubber bones, or veterinarian-approved chews. For puppies, teething toys are essential. For older dogs, interactive toys like Kongs—filled with treats or peanut butter—can keep them busy. Stuffing a chew toy with treats makes it more appealing and encourages longer engagement. The novelty of a new chew toy can make it more attractive than forbidden items, especially when your dog is left alone.

Use Training to Redirect Chewing Behavior

When you catch your dog chewing something they shouldn’t, calmly replace it with a safe toy. Click and reward them when they switch to the appropriate item. This teaches them what’s allowed. Over time, add a cue like “chew” or “toy” to reinforce the behavior. Practice this in a controlled setting by placing tempting items near acceptable ones and rewarding the correct choice. Consistency and timing are key—your dog learns fastest when the reward follows the desired behavior immediately.

Address Boredom and Anxiety First

If your dog chews when alone, they may be bored or anxious. Exercise and mental stimulation are vital. Take your dog for a long walk, play fetch, or do training sessions before leaving. This burns off excess energy. If your dog shows signs of separation anxiety—like panic or destructive behavior—address the root cause, not just the chewing. Training should focus on building confidence and reducing fear. Interactive toys and food puzzles can help your dog stay occupied and calm while you're gone.