Coming home to a chewed shoe, a shredded cushion or teeth marks on the table leg is frustrating. The good news is that chewing is normal dog behaviour, and with a few simple changes most dogs learn to chew the right things.
Why dogs chew
Dogs explore the world with their mouths. Puppies chew to ease teething discomfort, usually until they're around six or seven months old. Adult dogs chew for other reasons: boredom, excess energy, stress or anxiety when left alone, or simply because it feels good. Working out which one applies to your dog makes the fix much easier.
1. Give them enough exercise
A tired dog is far less likely to chew the couch. Most dogs need at least one good walk a day, and high-energy breeds often need more. In the Australian summer, walk early in the morning or in the evening when it's cooler, and check the footpath with the back of your hand before heading out. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for paws.
2. Offer the right chew toys
Give your dog things they're allowed to chew, and make them more interesting than your furniture. Pick toys that suit your dog's size and chewing strength, and rotate them every few days so they feel new. Avoid giving old shoes or socks as toys, because dogs can't tell the difference between an old shoe and your favourite pair.
3. Puppy-proof your home
Make it easy for your dog to succeed. Keep shoes, kids' toys, remote controls and washing off the floor. Tuck away power cords and secure bins. While your dog is learning, use a baby gate or a crate to limit access to rooms when you can't supervise.
4. Add enrichment
Mental exercise tires dogs out just like physical exercise. Sniffing games, food puzzles and short training sessions all give your dog's brain a workout. Hiding treats around the yard is a simple, free option.
A lick mat is another easy idea. Licking is naturally calming for dogs, so spreading a little wet food, plain yoghurt or a pet-safe spread on a textured mat can keep them busy and relaxed. The Peanut Lick Mat has suction cups, so you can stick it to the floor, a tile wall or the side of the bath, and its grooves slow your dog down while they lick.
5. Redirect, don't punish
If you catch your dog chewing something they shouldn't, calmly swap it for one of their own toys, then praise them when they chew that instead. Telling a dog off after the fact doesn't work, because they won't connect it with something they did earlier. Punishment can also make anxious dogs more stressed, which can lead to more chewing.
When to see a vet
Talk to your vet if chewing starts suddenly in an adult dog, if your dog seems to be in pain or has trouble eating, or if they swallow non-food items. Also check in if the chewing only happens when you're away and comes with barking, howling or pacing, as this can be a sign of separation anxiety. Your vet can rule out dental or health problems and point you to a qualified trainer or behaviourist if needed.
The bottom line
Most chewing comes down to unmet needs. Plenty of exercise, the right toys, a safer home and a bit of daily enrichment go a long way.
If you'd like to add a lick mat to your dog's routine, you can take a look at the Peanut Lick Mat here.