Stop Dog Chewing Shoes When Alone

Why Dogs Chew Shoes When Left Alone

Dogs chew shoes for several reasons, especially when left alone. Puppies often chew due to teething pain, as gnawing helps relieve discomfort. Older dogs may chew out of boredom, habit, or because they’re exploring their environment with their mouths—dogs use their sense of taste and touch to investigate things, even if they’re blind and deaf at birth. Some dogs are drawn to shoes because they smell like their owners, making them irresistible. If chewing is tied to anxiety or separation stress, it may require specific attention beyond basic training.

Prevent Access to Shoes

The first step to stopping shoe chewing is preventing access. When your dog is unsupervised, keep shoes out of reach—store them in closed closets, drawers, or behind doors. Use toy boxes with lids and secure trash bins to reduce temptation. This is especially important for puppies and dogs with strong chewing habits. By controlling the environment, you eliminate the chance for your dog to chew inappropriate items while you’re away.

Redirect with Appropriate Chew Toys

Instead of just saying “no,” teach your dog what *is* okay to chew. Offer a variety of safe, durable chew toys—like rubber toys, antlers, or rawhides—so your dog has appealing alternatives. When you catch your dog chewing a shoe, calmly replace it with a proper chew toy. As soon as they show interest in the toy, click (if using a clicker) and reward with a treat. This teaches them that chewing the right thing leads to rewards.

Use the “Shoe-to-Collar” Technique

If your dog is obsessed with one specific shoe, try a temporary deterrent: tie the shoe to their collar using a flat collar (not a choke chain). Supervise closely to avoid tripping or choking. This method uses the idea that too much of a good thing loses appeal. After a few hours of constant contact, the shoe may become less interesting. This works best for dogs with a strong fixation on one item.

Train with Cues and Consistency

Once your dog starts choosing the right toy, add a cue like “chew” or “toy” to reinforce the behavior. Use the clicker and treats to mark and reward correct choices. Gradually introduce tempting items (like shoes) near acceptable toys and ask your dog to choose the right one. With consistent practice, your dog learns to associate the cue with the correct behavior and avoids forbidden items.