Why Is My Dog Chewing Drywall & How to Stop It

Why Dogs Chew Drywall

Dogs chew drywall for several reasons, especially if they’re young or have unmet needs. Puppies chew because their teeth are coming in—this process causes discomfort, and gnawing helps relieve it, much like human babies. Even after teething ends, many dogs continue chewing out of habit, boredom, or to explore their environment. Dogs use their mouths to investigate, as their sense of taste and touch develops early in life. Some dogs also chew due to anxiety or pent-up energy, especially if left alone for long periods. If your dog is chewing drywall, it may be a sign they lack appropriate outlets or are stressed.

Common Triggers for Destructive Chewing

The most common reasons dogs chew inappropriate items like drywall include boredom, teething, anxiety, hunger, or a need for attention. Some dogs chew simply because they enjoy it or because they’ve never been taught what’s acceptable to chew. Negative attention—like yelling or chasing—can still reinforce the behavior, as dogs learn that chewing gets a reaction. Chewing inedible materials like drywall is dangerous: it can lead to broken teeth, gum injuries, or even intestinal blockages requiring surgery. It’s crucial to understand your dog’s motivation to address the root cause effectively.

How to Stop Drywall Chewing: Prevention & Supervision

The first step is to prevent access to drywall. Dog-proof your home by blocking off areas where your dog can reach walls or using baby gates. Supervise your dog closely, especially when they’re unsupervised. If you can’t supervise, confine them to a safe, chew-proofed space. Avoid leaving shoes, toys, or other tempting items out where they can be chewed. For puppies, this is especially important—prevention is the best way to stop destructive habits before they start. If your dog is chewing drywall, don’t chase them or punish them after the fact; instead, focus on stopping the behavior in the moment.

Redirecting Chewing with Training & Toys

When you catch your dog chewing drywall, calmly redirect them to an appropriate chew toy. Use a cue like “chew” or “toy” and click and reward them when they switch to the correct item. This teaches them that chewing the right thing earns a treat. Provide a variety of safe, durable toys—rubber, rawhide, or antlers—so your dog can explore different textures. Rotate toys to keep them interesting. If your dog is chewing due to anxiety or separation issues, address the underlying emotional cause. For older dogs with ingrained habits, use deterrents like rubbing wintergreen oil on drywall, which has a strong smell dogs dislike.

Long-Term Success: Consistency & Patience

Breaking a chewing habit takes time and consistency. Never set your dog up for failure by leaving tempting items out and then punishing them. Instead, manage their environment and guide their choices. Use positive reinforcement to build new habits. If your dog continues to chew despite these efforts, consider consulting a professional trainer or veterinarian, especially if anxiety or separation issues are suspected. Remember: you’re not trying to stop chewing entirely—dogs naturally chew—but to redirect it to safe, acceptable items.