How to Stop Your Dog from Biting Everything: Expert Tips That Work

Dogs explore the world with their mouths—chewing, biting, and sometimes destroying anything in their path. While some level of chewing is natural, especially in puppies, excessive or destructive biting can become a major problem for dog owners. Whether your dog is teething, bored, anxious, or simply hasn’t learned proper behavior, this guide will walk you through how to stop your dog from biting everything—safely and effectively.

Why Dogs Bite or Chew on Things

Before correcting the behavior, it’s important to understand why your dog is chewing or biting everything in sight. The most common reasons include:

1. Teething (Puppies)

Puppies begin teething around 3 weeks old, and the discomfort can last until they're about 6 months old. Biting helps relieve the pain and itchiness of new teeth coming in.

2. Boredom

Dogs, especially high-energy breeds, need physical and mental stimulation. A bored dog will find its own entertainment—and that often means chewing your furniture, shoes, or remote control.

3. Separation Anxiety

Dogs left alone for long periods can develop anxiety, which they may express through destructive behaviors, including biting and chewing.

4. Lack of Training

If your dog has never been taught what is and isn’t acceptable to bite, it won’t know the difference between a chew toy and your couch cushion.

5. Attention-Seeking

Sometimes, dogs chew or bite things simply to get a reaction from you—even if it's a negative one.

How to Stop Your Dog from Biting Everything

Now that you know what might be causing the behavior, here’s how to fix it.

1. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

Your dog needs to chew—it’s a natural behavior. The goal is to redirect that instinct toward appropriate items.

• Offer a variety of textures: rope toys, rubber bones, dental chews, and plush toys.
• Rotate toys to keep them exciting.
• Try toys that can be filled with treats to hold your dog’s attention longer.

2. Correct the Behavior Immediately (But Kindly)

Timing is everything. If you catch your dog biting something it shouldn’t:

• Interrupt the behavior with a firm “No” or “Eh-eh!”
• Redirect immediately to an appropriate toy.
• When your dog chews the toy, praise and reward with treats or affection.

Avoid hitting or yelling, as this can lead to fear or aggression. Always correct calmly but assertively.

3. Puppy-Proof Your Home

Until your dog is trained, treat your home like you would for a toddler:

• Keep shoes, remotes, and other tempting items out of reach.
• Use baby gates to restrict access to certain areas.
• Store trash bins behind closed doors or use pet-proof containers.

4. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Chewing is often a sign of pent-up energy.

• Provide daily walks and play sessions.
• Use puzzle toys and snuffle mats to challenge their brain.
• Consider dog sports or agility classes for high-energy breeds.

5. Use Taste Deterrents

Bitter sprays or no-chew solutions can be applied to furniture, cords, or shoes to make them unappealing to your dog.

• Make sure the product is pet-safe.
• Reapply regularly, especially after cleaning the surface.
• Always combine deterrents with training—don’t rely on them alone.

6. Teach Basic Obedience Commands

Commands like “Leave it” and “Drop it” can be lifesavers.

• Train with positive reinforcement: reward good behavior, ignore bad behavior.
• Practice daily in short, consistent sessions.
• Use high-value treats to keep your dog motivated.

7. Consider Crate Training

When used correctly, a crate provides a safe space for your dog—not a punishment. It can help:

• Prevent unsupervised chewing.
• Give your dog a calm environment to rest.
• Help with house training and establishing routines.

Make the crate cozy with a blanket and toys, and never use it as a way to punish your dog.

8. Address Anxiety or Behavioral Issues

If your dog’s chewing is linked to anxiety or fear:

• Identify the triggers (e.g., being left alone, loud noises).
• Try calming aids like pheromone diffusers, thunder shirts, or soothing music.
• If needed, consult a veterinarian or professional dog trainer.

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, destructive biting and chewing go beyond what you can handle at home. You should seek help from a certified dog trainer or a behaviorist if:

• The chewing persists despite consistent training.
• Your dog is showing signs of aggression.
• Chewing is accompanied by other signs of anxiety (pacing, whining, urinating indoors).

Final Thoughts

Teaching your dog not to bite or chew everything takes time, patience, and consistency. It’s not about stopping your dog from chewing entirely—it’s about guiding that behavior in a positive direction. With the right tools, techniques, and love, your furry friend can become a well-mannered member of the family who knows exactly what’s okay to chew—and what’s not.

Remember, chewing is a phase—but training is for life.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary or dog training advice. Always consult an expert for serious behavior issues.