How to stop a dog chewing on furniture & more

by Tony Carter, Realtor® 01/22/2023

Owners of both young dogs and adult dogs often wonder how to stop a dog chewing things around the house. Damage to furniture, interior trim, clothing and other items caused by inappropriate chewing can be frustrating, but there are ways you can address the issue.

Here are some common reasons why dogs chew and ways to help prevent it:

Why puppies chew on things

Puppies like to chew on things as a way of exploring. However, excessive chewing is usually due to teething. Just like human babies, puppies can experience pain or discomfort in their gums from new teeth growing in. Chewing on anything and everything available might be their way of trying to relieve pain.

Why dogs chew when you leave the house

Many dog owners have experienced the horror of returning home to destroyed furniture, shoes or other objects after leaving their pup alone for a while. If your dog is chewing on things when you leave the house, they may be experiencing separation anxiety. 

In addition to missing you, they may simply be bored. Make sure to have plenty of appropriate chew toys available to keep them occupied while you’re away. Toys that dispense food, like puzzle feeders, are another great option for curing dog boredom.  

How to discourage your dog from chewing on wood

Wood trim and furniture are common victims of a dog’s destructive chewing. After addressing any behavioral issues that could be causing them to chew on wood - such as anxiety or boredom - you can use chewing deterrents to keep them away from wood surfaces. 

Supplies to stop your dog from chewing

Chew deterrents, such as bitter apple spray, are an effective way to discourage chewing on furniture, shoes and other items. There are several options available on the market, but you can also make your own deterrent spray with apple cider vinegar and water.

Combining a chew deterrent with the right chew toy can often be enough to keep your dog from inappropriate chewing. However, it’s always best to tackle the behavioral issues first. If you’re ever uncertain about what to do next, consult your vet for expert advice.

About the Author
Author

Tony Carter, Realtor®

My wife, Cindy and I, moved to Florida 9 years ago from Wisconsin, where we were born and raised. I proudly served in the United States Air Force and was stationed overseas and in The Gulf War. Became a member of The American Legion and a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). After, the Military, I got into the retail business for the last 25 years. During my last position, in the retail. I was second-in-charge of a 125 million dollar a year business. Thatis where I developed my passion for customer service and taking care of the customer. With that passion, I became a full-time licensed Realtor in the state of Florida. I understand that real estate is not just a transaction but an important personal decision, a decision that may need guidance. I am here to answer any questions and guide you and your family through the process. Whether buying for the first time. Purchasing a condo, single-family home, investment property or a time-share on the beach. I am the exclusive Realtor for the Mariner Beach Club in St Pete Beach, Florida and for the Island Gulf Resort in Madeira Beach, Florida. Please feel free to contact me with your real estate needs directly at cell 262-894-8135 or via e-mail at [email protected] or website; www.TonyCarterRealEstate.com. Timeshare on St. Pete Beach, Florida. www.TonyCarterRealtor.com. Video of the Mariner Beach Club, St. Pete Beach, Florida. www.imagemaker360.com/141537. Website to the timeshare at Madeira Beach, Florida. www.IslandGulfResortFlorida.com