Stop Your Dog From Destroying His Bed

Why Dogs Chew on Their Beds

Dogs chew for many reasons—especially puppies, who chew to relieve teething pain. Their gums itch as new teeth come in, and chewing provides counterpressure that helps ease discomfort. Older dogs may chew out of boredom, habit, or to explore their environment. Since dogs use their mouths to investigate, especially when they’re young, chewing is instinctual. If your dog is destroying his bed, it may be because he’s seeking stimulation or relief, not being destructive on purpose.

Prevent Access and Provide Alternatives

The best way to stop chewing is to prevent access to things your dog shouldn’t chew. Keep shoes, clothes, and other tempting items out of reach—use closed doors, toy boxes with lids, or locked cabinets. Make sure your dog has safe, durable chew toys available at all times, especially when unsupervised. Try different textures and types—rubber toys, rawhides, antlers, or bones—to find what your dog prefers. Offering these options gives your dog a safe outlet for chewing.

Redirect with Training and Rewards

When you catch your dog chewing on his bed, calmly replace it with an approved chew toy. As soon as he shows interest in the new toy, click and reward with a treat. This teaches him that chewing the right thing leads to rewards. Be consistent—timing is key. Over time, add a cue like “chew” or “toy” to help him associate the word with the correct behavior. Practice by placing tempting items near safe toys and use the cue to guide his choice.

Supervise and Control the Environment

You can’t stop chewing if your dog is unsupervised. Supervision is essential—especially for older dogs with long-standing habits. If your dog is chewing when you’re not around, confine him to a dog-proofed area with safe toys. Never punish after the fact; your dog won’t connect the punishment to the behavior. Instead, focus on controlling the environment and guiding behavior in real time.

When Chewing May Signal a Bigger Issue

If chewing is extreme or happens only when you’re away, it could be linked to anxiety or separation distress. In such cases, addressing the root cause—like fear or stress—is necessary. If your dog chews dangerous items or shows signs of distress, consult your vet. Remember: chewing isn’t always a bad habit—it’s often a natural behavior that just needs redirection.