First it was a shoe. Then the corner of the rug. Then the couch cushion you just bought. And when you walked in, your dog gave you a look that said, "No idea who did this."
Destructive chewing is a common problem, and it's rarely about spite. The fix depends on why your dog is doing it, so let's start there.
The short version
- Destructive chewing has several possible causes: boredom, separation anxiety, teething, hunger, stress or frustration.
- If the damage happens mostly when your dog is alone and comes with other signs of distress, it may be separation anxiety. Talk to your vet.
- For boredom, the fix is more exercise, more brain work, the right chew items and a dog-proofed home.
- Punishing after the fact doesn't work, and the "guilty look" isn't guilt.
First, figure out which kind of chewing it is
The ASPCA lists several reasons dogs chew destructively:
- Teething. Puppies chew to relieve sore gums. This usually settles by around 6 months of age.
- Boredom. Dogs without enough physical and mental stimulation make their own entertainment.
- Separation anxiety. Some dogs chew because being alone distresses them.
- Hunger. Dogs on calorie-restricted diets may chew in search of food.
- Stress or frustration. For some dogs, chewing is a way of coping.
Humane World for Animals adds a few more: the dog was never taught what is and isn't OK to chew, there's nothing appropriate available, or chewing simply feels good. Chewing is a normal dog behavior. The goal is to point it at the right things.
Boredom or separation anxiety?
This is the big one, because the fixes are different. According to the ASPCA, chewing that happens mostly or only when your dog is alone points toward separation anxiety, especially if it comes with:
- whining or barking after you leave
- pacing or accidents in the house only when alone
- escape attempts at doors or windows
- distress as you get ready to leave
A bored dog, by contrast, can be disruptive without seeming anxious. If you suspect separation anxiety, see your vet first to rule out medical causes. Moderate and severe cases are best handled with a certified applied animal behaviorist or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist (ASPCA).
The "guilty look" myth
That head-down, eyes-up look when you find the mess? It's not remorse. Humane World explains that it's a reaction to your body language. Your dog can tell you're upset. The ASPCA notes that punishing a dog after the fact doesn't work, because the dog can't connect it to something it did earlier. Scolding or grabbing items out of a dog's mouth can even teach them to guard things.
What actually helps with boredom chewing
1. More exercise
The ASPCA suggests aiming for at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day, plus mental stimulation. Often, a destructive dog simply has more energy than outlets. Destructive chewing is one of the signs PetMD lists of a dog who isn't getting enough exercise.
2. Brain work at "chewing o'clock"
If your dog tends to chew at a certain time of day, give a food puzzle or stuffed chew toy right before it (ASPCA). Snuffle mats, scatter feeding and short training sessions all help too.
3. A legal outlet
Offer a variety of chew toys and rotate them so they stay interesting. Supervise edible chews, and give them away from other dogs (ASPCA).
4. Manage the house
Dog-proof while you're working on it. Put shoes in a closet, laundry in a hamper and kids' toys out of reach. A taste deterrent spray on furniture can help (ASPCA).
5. Redirect and praise
Catch your dog chewing the wrong thing, calmly swap it for the right thing, and praise them when they take it.
What not to do
The ASPCA specifically advises against taping a dog's mouth, tying damaged items to them, muzzling them to stop chewing, or leaving them crated for long periods. None of these address why the dog is chewing.
Where active play fits in
Chew toys meet the urge to chew, but they're not a substitute for aerobic exercise. If your dog's destruction comes from pent-up energy, active play matters too: fetch, tug, chase games and brisk walks. On cold or busy days, see our list of indoor ways to burn energy.
Our Chase Ball rolls on its own and changes direction when it bumps into things, so your dog gets a chase game even when you can't play fetch. One important note: it's a chase toy for supervised play, not something to leave with a bored chewer. See the Chase Ball →
When to get help
- Signs of separation anxiety (see above).
- An adult dog who suddenly starts chewing destructively. Check with your vet to rule out medical causes.
- Repetitive fabric sucking or chewing, which the ASPCA says can become compulsive.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If you're worried about your pet's health or behavior, talk to your vet.
