Why Does My Dog Keep Chewing on Me?

Common Reasons Dogs Chew on People

Dogs chew on people for several key reasons, especially if they’re young or haven’t been properly trained. Puppies often chew during teething, as their gums hurt when new teeth come in—just like human babies. Chewing helps relieve that discomfort by applying counterpressure. Even after teething ends, many dogs continue using their mouths to explore their environment, since their sense of taste and touch develops early and they’re born blind and deaf.

Older dogs may chew due to boredom, anxiety, or pent-up energy. Some dogs chew to get attention—any kind of attention, even negative reactions, can reinforce the behavior. Dogs also have an instinctual drive to chew, rooted in their ancestral need to gnaw on bones and marrow for survival. If your dog hasn’t been taught what’s acceptable to chew, they may naturally turn to your hands, arms, or clothes.

Chewing Is a Habit, Not Just a Phase

Even if your dog is older, chewing on you isn’t necessarily a sign of bad behavior—it’s often a learned habit. Many dogs never learned the difference between acceptable and unacceptable chew items. If they were never guided to chew on toys instead of shoes, furniture, or people, they’ll keep doing what feels natural. This is especially true if they’ve been left unsupervised around tempting items.

Chewing on you might also be a way to bond or express affection. Some dogs use gentle mouthing as a way to “play” or show love. However, if it becomes excessive or painful, it needs redirection. The key is not to punish the behavior, but to teach what’s acceptable through consistent training and positive reinforcement.

How to Stop Chewing on You: Practical Steps

The most effective way to stop your dog from chewing on you is to supervise them closely and control their environment. If you’re not watching, they’ll find something to chew—even you. Keep valuable or tempting items (like shoes, remote controls, or clothing) out of reach, and use baby gates or crates when needed.

When you catch your dog chewing on you, redirect their attention to a safe, approved chew toy. Use a calm but firm voice, and offer a treat when they switch to the toy. This teaches them that chewing on you isn’t rewarded, but chewing on the right thing is. Use a cue like “chew” or “toy” to help them make the connection over time.

Consistency is crucial. Every time your dog chews on you, redirect them. If you sometimes let it happen and sometimes stop it, they won’t learn the rule. Use a clicker and treats to reinforce the correct behavior, especially during training sessions.

What to Avoid When Training Chewing Behavior

Avoid grabbing your dog’s mouth or pulling away from them when they chew. This can startle or scare them and may even encourage biting. Also, don’t rely only on bitter sprays or punishment—these address symptoms, not causes. They won’t teach your dog what to do instead.

Similarly, don’t ignore the behavior if it’s dangerous or painful. If your dog is chewing on things that could harm them—like electrical cords or toxic plants—seek help from a vet or trainer. Addressing anxiety or fear-related chewing may require deeper behavioral support.

Teach Your Dog What’s Okay to Chew

Provide a variety of safe, durable chew toys—antlers, rubber bones, rawhides, or puzzle toys. Let your dog explore different textures and types to find what they prefer. Rotate toys regularly to keep them interesting.

When your dog is unsupervised, make sure they have access only to safe chew items. Use toy boxes with lids, lock trash bins, and store shoes out of reach. This prevents them from developing bad habits while you’re not around.

Over time, your dog will learn that chewing on you isn’t allowed, but chewing on their toys is fun and rewarded.