Why Does My Dog Chew Table Legs & How to Stop It

Why Dogs Chew Table Legs

Dogs chew table legs for several reasons. Puppies often chew due to teething pain, as their gums itch and they need counterpressure to feel relief—just like human babies. Even after teething ends, many dogs continue chewing because it’s instinctual, a way to explore their environment, or a habit formed when they weren’t taught what’s okay to chew. Older dogs may chew out of boredom, anxiety, or pent-up energy. Some dogs chew simply to get attention, even negative attention. If chewing is frequent or destructive, it can lead to injury or ingestion of harmful materials, so early intervention is key.

Stop Chewing with Prevention and Supervision

The first step to stopping table leg chewing is prevention. Limit your dog’s access to tempting items by keeping shoes, toys, and furniture out of reach—store them in closed cabinets or behind doors. Never leave your dog unsupervised in areas with chewable furniture unless the space is fully dog-proofed. Supervision is essential: if you’re not watching, your dog can’t be expected to resist temptation. The goal is to avoid setting your dog up for failure by leaving valuable items unattended.

Redirect Chewing with Training

Instead of just saying “no,” teach your dog what to chew. When you catch your dog chewing a table leg, calmly redirect them to an approved chew toy. Use a cue like “chew” or “toy” and click and reward when they switch to the right item. This method works best when done consistently—timing is crucial so your dog makes the connection between the correct behavior and the reward. Over time, they’ll learn to choose their toys over furniture. You can also place tempting items (like a shoe) near a chew toy and use the cue to guide the correct choice.

Use Safe Chew Toys and Deterrents

Offer a variety of safe, durable chew toys—rubber, antlers, rawhides, or vet-approved options—to satisfy your dog’s natural urge to chew. Experiment to find what your dog prefers. Avoid giving old shoes as chew toys, as this confuses the message. For furniture, try rubbing wintergreen oil on legs—it has a strong smell that deters dogs without harmful chemicals. This can help discourage chewing on surfaces even when supervision isn’t possible.

When Chewing Signals Deeper Issues

If your dog chews excessively when left alone, it may be a sign of separation anxiety. In such cases, chewing isn’t just a habit—it’s a coping mechanism. If you suspect anxiety, consider consulting a professional or using targeted training strategies. Also, if your dog is chewing dangerous items like plastic or fabric, it could indicate pica—a condition where dogs eat non-food items. Prevent this by limiting access and providing safe alternatives.