How to Stop a Dog from Chewing Furniture: Effective Tips

Chewing is a natural dog behavior, but knowing how to stop a dog from chewing furniture can feel like a mystery to many pet owners. Some dogs chew out of boredom, others for teething relief, and a few simply because they can’t resist the furniture! Whatever the reason, helping your dog leave your couch, chairs, and tables alone requires patience, understanding, and a little redirection. Here’s how you can put an end to unwanted chewing and protect your home while keeping your dog happy.

Why Dogs Chew and How to Stop a Dog from Chewing Furniture?

Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand why dogs chew in the first place. Here are some common reasons:

• Teething: Puppies often chew as their teeth come in. Chewing relieves some of the discomfort associated with teething.

• Boredom: Dogs, especially active breeds, may chew furniture when they’re bored or lack stimulation.

• Anxiety: Some dogs chew to cope with separation anxiety or stress.

• Exploration: Dogs use their mouths to explore. Chewing helps them learn about the objects around them.

Understanding the reason behind your dog’s chewing can help you address it more effectively. Let’s take a look at some methods to help curb this behavior.

Offer Plenty of Chew-Approved Alternatives

If you want to know how to stop a dog from chewing furniture, start by offering them things they can chew. Invest in a variety of chew toys, bones, or dental chews that your dog finds satisfying.

• Choose durable chew toys: Look for high-quality rubber or nylon chew toys, especially if you have an aggressive chewer.

• Mix up textures: Some dogs enjoy softer toys, while others prefer harder ones. Try different types to see which your dog prefers.

• Rotate toys: Keep things fresh by rotating toys every few days. A ‘new’ toy can be a great distraction!

Providing alternatives makes it easier to teach your dog what’s acceptable to chew.

Use Positive Reinforcement

When your dog picks up their chew toy instead of heading for the furniture, praise them! Positive reinforcement strengthens good behavior, teaching your dog that they’ll receive attention and rewards for chewing on appropriate items.

• Give treats and praise: When your dog chews on the right toy, immediately offer a treat and plenty of verbal praise.

• Ignore bad behavior: Don’t punish your dog for chewing furniture, but try to redirect their attention calmly. Punishment can increase anxiety and lead to more chewing.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation Are Essential

Exercise can work wonders when it comes to managing unwanted chewing. If your dog has pent-up energy, they’ll likely channel it into chewing. A well-exercised dog, on the other hand, will be more relaxed and less prone to destructive behaviors.

• Walks and playtime: Regular physical activity, like daily walks and playtime, is essential.

• Interactive toys: Toys that challenge your dog mentally, such as treat-dispensing toys or puzzle games, can keep them engaged.

• Training sessions: Brief training sessions during the day can be a great way to keep your dog’s mind active. They’ll focus on learning commands rather than chewing.

How to Stop a Dog from Chewing Furniture by Limiting Access

One of the simplest solutions for controlling your dog’s chewing is to limit their access to furniture when you’re not around. This can mean restricting them to a safe, designated area or room with approved chew toys.

• Use baby gates: Baby gates can create a secure area where your dog can stay safely while unsupervised.

• Crate training: When done right, crate training can help your dog feel secure while keeping them from chewing on household items. Make the crate inviting with bedding and a few toys to keep them happy.

• Supervised freedom: If your dog needs to be in areas with furniture, only let them roam freely when you’re around to supervise.

Try Bitter Deterrents

Bitter deterrents can be a quick, effective solution for stopping your dog from chewing on furniture. These sprays have a taste that dogs dislike, deterring them from chewing.

•  Apply sparingly: Spray a small amount on the furniture, focusing on areas where your dog tends to chew.

•  Reapply regularly: Deterrent sprays wear off over time, so you’ll need to reapply every few days.

•  Test before using: Test a small area of your furniture first to ensure the spray doesn’t cause any damage.

Redirect Attention When You Catch Them in the Act

If you see your dog beginning to chew on furniture, calmly intervene. Redirect them to a toy or treat, giving them an acceptable alternative to chew on. This immediate response helps them make the connection between their actions and the consequences.

•  Interrupt gently: Use a firm, calm “No” or clap your hands softly to get their attention.

•  Offer a chew toy: Once your dog stops chewing the furniture, give them a chew toy as a replacement.

•  Repeat consistently: Consistency is key. Redirecting them every time they start to chew on furniture will reinforce good habits.

Addressing Separation Anxiety

If you suspect your dog’s chewing is linked to separation anxiety, consider strategies specifically aimed at alleviating anxiety. Dogs that chew due to stress need calm, gradual training to feel secure when you’re away.

•  Leave comfort items: Some dogs are soothed by items with their owner’s scent, such as a worn t-shirt.

•  Gradual departures: Practice leaving the house for short periods, gradually increasing the time spent away.

•  Avoid dramatic exits: Keep your departures and arrivals low-key to help your dog stay relaxed.

In severe cases, consult with a vet or dog behaviorist to explore anxiety-reducing strategies, which may include behavior therapy.

Patience and Consistency Are Key to Stop a Dog from Chewing Furniture

Training a dog to stop chewing furniture doesn’t happen overnight. The more consistent you are with boundaries and reinforcement, the sooner you’ll see results. Avoid getting frustrated, as this can cause stress for both you and your dog.

•  Celebrate small wins: Notice when your dog chooses their toy instead of the furniture and give them a treat or extra praise.

•  Stay calm and focused: Dogs sense your mood, and staying calm helps them understand what you want.

Final Thoughts

Figuring out how to stop a dog from chewing furniture requires understanding, patience, and consistency. By providing alternatives, using positive reinforcement, and addressing any underlying causes like anxiety or boredom, you can help your dog develop better habits. Remember, every dog learns at their own pace, so stick with these techniques, and soon your dog will learn that furniture isn’t a chew toy.

For further reading, check out the American Kennel Club’s article on training techniques for dogs (AKC)