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4 Steps for Correcting Your Dog’s Chewing Habit

Correcting Your Dog’s Chewing Habit: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’ve ever come home to find your beloved dog has turned your new shoes into a chew toy or shredded your favorite sofa cushions, you’re not alone. Dealing with aggressive chewing can be incredibly frustrating, but understanding and addressing this behavior is key to finding a solution. This guide will walk you through the steps to correct your dog’s chewing habit, making it easier for you and more enjoyable for your furry friend.

Jack Russell Terrier, 2 years old, holding a shoe while clicker training to correct chewing habit

Understanding Your Dog’s Chewing Instinct

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, especially for puppies. When puppies are teething, chewing helps soothe the discomfort in their gums and allows them to explore new textures. As they grow, this behavior helps them learn about their environment.

However, chewing can also be a sign of boredom or separation anxiety. If your dog exhibits excessive barking, drooling, or refuses to eat when you leave, these might be indicators of anxiety. Observing these signs can help you pinpoint the cause of the chewing and address it more effectively.

 “Understanding the root cause of your dog’s chewing is crucial. It’s not just about stopping the behavior, but about addressing its underlying reasons.” — Dr. Sarah Johnson, Veterinarian

Removing Temptations: Keep Items Out of Reach

One of the most straightforward ways to prevent your dog from chewing on household items is to keep those items out of their reach. Dogs are particularly attracted to items with your scent or their own scent. Therefore, anything that smells like you or your dog should be kept behind doors or in containers that your dog cannot open.

Tip: Invest in childproof locks for cabinets or rooms where you store items that might tempt your dog. This simple measure can make a significant difference in reducing unwanted chewing.

Providing the Right Chew Toys

For puppies, and even adult dogs, having an array of appropriate chew toys is essential. Chew toys not only keep your dog entertained but also help satisfy their natural urge to chew. Ensure you have a variety of toys with different textures, sizes, and flavors to cater to your dog’s preferences.

Recommended Product: The Suction Cup Dog Chew Toy is a fantastic option. It allows for chewing and pulling, providing both mental and physical stimulation. For a chew toy that also offers the excitement of treats, consider a hollow toy filled with your dog’s favorite snacks or a food puzzle.

Statistic:Dogs that have access to a variety of chew toys are 70% less likely to engage in destructive chewing behaviors.” — American Kennel Club

Implementing Consistent Positive Correction

When you catch your dog in the act of chewing something inappropriate, gently remove the item and replace it with one of their chew toys. Offer verbal praise and physical affection when your dog switches their attention to the toy. Consistency in this positive reinforcement is key to effective training.

Tip: The more you reward your dog for chewing on the right items, the more likely they are to repeat this behavior. Positive reinforcement helps reinforce good habits and strengthens your bond with your pet.

Transform Your Dog’s Chewing Habits Today!

Ready to take control of your dog’s chewing habits? Discover a range of high-quality chew toys that can make a difference.

About Julee Morrison

Julee Morrison is an author and writer with over 35 years of experience in parenting and family recipes. She’s the author of four cookbooks: The Instant Pot College Cookbook, The How-To Cookbook for Teens, The Complete Cookbook for Teens, and The Complete College Cookbook.Available on Amazon,

Her work has appeared in The LA Times, Disney’s Family Fun Magazine, Bon Appétit, Weight Watchers Magazine, All You, Scholastic Parent & Child, and more.

Her article "My Toddler Stood on Elvis' Grave and Scaled Over Boulders to Get to a Dinosaur" appeared on AP News, and her parenting piece “The Sly Way I Cured My Child's Lying Habit” was featured on PopSugar.

Outside of writing, Julee enjoys baking, reading, collecting crystals, and spending time with her family. You can find more of her work at Mommy’s Memorandum.