If you’ve recently brought a puppy into your home, you’ve probably noticed that they love to chew—on everything! From shoes to furniture, puppies seem to chew on anything they can get their paws on. While this behavior is completely natural, it can be frustrating and potentially harmful to your belongings. At Lanoka Oaks Veterinary Center, your Bayville, NJ, animal clinic, we understand the challenges of puppy chewing and are here to help you redirect this behavior with safe training tips.

Puppy chewing is a normal and instinctual part of development. However, it’s essential to teach your puppy what’s appropriate to chew on and what isn’t. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why puppies chew, how to manage and redirect their chewing behavior, and tips for keeping your home safe while your puppy grows and learns.

Why Puppies Chew

Puppies are born with a strong instinct to chew, and this behavior serves several important purposes. Here are the most common reasons why puppies chew:

1. Teething Pain

Just like human babies, puppies go through a teething process, which can cause discomfort and pain. Chewing helps alleviate this pain and provides relief for their sore gums. Teething typically starts around 3 weeks of age and lasts until your puppy is about 6 months old, when their adult teeth come in.

2. Exploration

Puppies explore the world around them using their mouths. They don’t yet know what’s safe to chew and what’s not, so everything they encounter is fair game for exploration. Chewing allows them to learn about their environment and satisfy their curiosity.

3. Boredom and Energy

Puppies are naturally energetic, and if they don’t get enough physical or mental stimulation, they may turn to chewing to occupy themselves. This behavior is often seen in puppies that are left alone for long periods or aren’t getting enough exercise or playtime.

4. Stress and Anxiety

Chewing can also be a way for puppies to cope with stress or anxiety. If your puppy is left alone or experiences a change in their routine, they may chew to relieve stress. This is common in puppies experiencing separation anxiety or in new environments.

5. Attention-Seeking

Some puppies learn that chewing can get your attention, even if it’s negative attention. If your puppy is chewing on furniture or shoes and you react by scolding them, they may continue the behavior because they associate it with getting your attention.

The ASPCA also has a post on chewing, which is here. Humane World also has an article on chewing in dogs, which you can read here.

Training Puppies Not to Chew: Redirection and Safe Chewing Alternatives

Training your puppy to stop chewing on inappropriate items involves patience, consistency, and redirection. Here are some puppy chewing behavior tips to help you manage and stop destructive chewing:

1. Provide Chew Toys

The easiest way to redirect your puppy’s chewing behavior is by providing appropriate chew toys. Offer a variety of textures, shapes, and sizes to keep them interested. Puppies love toys that are made for teething, such as rubber or nylon bones, as these help soothe their gums and satisfy their chewing instincts.

2. Redirect Attention

If you catch your puppy chewing on something they shouldn’t, immediately redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy. Praise and reward them when they start chewing on the toy, reinforcing the idea that chewing on the right things is acceptable.

3. Use Deterring Sprays

There are sprays available that make objects unappealing to chew. These sprays typically have a bitter taste, which discourages puppies from chewing on furniture, shoes, or other household items. Spray the affected areas to deter your puppy from chewing on them, but be sure to use sprays that are safe for pets.

4. Crate Training

Crate training can be an effective way to manage your puppy’s chewing behavior when you’re not home. When left unsupervised, puppies are more likely to chew on things they shouldn’t. Using a crate can help prevent destructive behavior, as it provides a safe and confined space for your puppy when you’re away.

5. Provide Enough Exercise

Puppies with excess energy are more likely to chew. Ensure your canine buddy gets plenty of physical activity, such as walks, playtime, and socialization. Mental stimulation is equally important, so incorporate training sessions, puzzle toys, and games to keep their mind engaged and prevent boredom.

6. Avoid Punishment

Never punish your furry pal for chewing. Scolding or physically punishing them will only confuse and frighten them, potentially leading to anxiety. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement for chewing appropriate toys and redirecting them when they start chewing on something they shouldn’t.

Stop Puppy Chewing Furniture: Additional Tips for a Safe Home

While it’s important to redirect your puppy’s chewing behavior, there are steps you can take to protect your furniture and belongings:

1. Puppy-Proof Your Home

Puppy-proofing your home means making sure that any items little Fido can reach are safe or out of their reach. Move shoes, electrical cords, and valuable furniture out of sight or into areas where your puppy can’t access them. Consider using baby gates to restrict your pet’s access to certain rooms.

2. Be Consistent

Consistency is key when training your puppy. If they’re allowed to chew on certain things sometimes, it will confuse them. Always provide the same rules and consistently redirect them to appropriate chew toys when they stray.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise your puppy when they chew on the right things. Positive reinforcement will encourage them to continue making good choices. Offer praise, treats, or playtime when they focus on their toys rather than household items.

4. Stay Patient

Training your puppy to stop chewing everything takes time. Be patient and consistent with your training efforts. It’s important to remember that chewing is a natural behavior, and with time and proper redirection, your puppy will learn what’s appropriate to chew.

FAQ: Puppy Chewing Behavior

Why do puppies chew everything?

Puppies chew for several reasons, including teething, exploration, boredom, and stress. It’s a natural behavior, but with the right training and redirection, you can teach your puppy what’s appropriate to chew.

How can I stop my puppy from chewing furniture?

To stop your puppy from chewing furniture, provide appropriate chew toys, use deterring sprays, and redirect their attention when they chew on the wrong items. Consistency and patience are key in training.

Is it normal for puppies to chew a lot?

Yes, it’s normal for puppies to chew a lot, especially during their teething phase. Providing the right toys and redirection will help manage the behavior and keep your home safe.

How long will my puppy chew everything?

Most puppies will outgrow excessive chewing as they mature and as their adult teeth come in. With consistent training, they’ll learn to focus on appropriate chew toys and avoid chewing on furniture or other household items.

Contact Our Bayville, NJ Pet Hospital

Chewing is a normal part of that adorable puppy stage, but it’s important to manage and redirect this behavior to ensure your home remains safe and your puppy stays happy. With the right chew toys, training, and redirection, you can teach your canine buddy what’s okay to chew and what’s off-limits. At Lanoka Oaks Veterinary Center in Bayville, NJ, we’re here to provide you with guidance on puppy training and overall care. If you need help with your puppy’s behavior or training, don’t hesitate to call us today.

Are you looking for a trusted Bayville, NJ vet clinic? You can try looking for a vet near me, or simply give us a call today. We’re here to help with all your puppy’s training and care needs.

Visit our Services page here to find out more about our clinic and the pets we treat. You can also learn more about our Emergency service options here, or our Wellness & Vaccinations offerings here.

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment plan for your pet and follow their advice.