Dogs are known for their loyalty, companionship, and playful behavior. However, one behavior that frustrates many dog owners is chewing on furniture. Whether it’s the corner of the couch, the legs of your dining chairs, or the remote left on the coffee table, destructive chewing can damage your home and put your dog’s health at risk.
If you’re tired of coming home to shredded cushions or gnawed wood, don’t worry—this is a common issue, and it can be corrected with the right approach. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why dogs chew furniture, and more importantly, how you can effectively stop this behavior.
Before you can solve the problem, it’s essential to understand why it’s happening in the first place. Here are the most common reasons:
Puppies go through a teething phase between 3 and 6 months of age. During this time, chewing helps soothe their gums.
Dogs are intelligent and energetic animals. If they’re not mentally or physically stimulated, they’ll find their own ways to entertain themselves—often by chewing.
If your dog gets anxious when you leave the house, they may chew furniture to relieve their stress.
Some dogs chew simply because they’ve learned it gets your attention—even if that attention is negative.
Chewing is a normal behavior for dogs. It helps keep their jaws strong and their teeth clean. The problem arises when they chew the wrong things.
Observe your dog. Do they chew only when you’re gone? Only when they’re left alone for too long? Or is it a puppy going through teething? Identifying the cause will help you tailor the right solution.
Dogs need to chew, so the key is redirecting their chewing to appropriate items. Invest in durable chew toys such as:
Tip: Keep a variety of textures to find out what your dog likes best.
A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Make sure your dog is getting:
This reduces boredom and destructive behavior.
Commercial pet-safe sprays like bitter apple or citrus-based deterrents can discourage chewing. Spray them on the furniture (first test on a small area) and reapply daily.
Note: Not all dogs are affected by taste deterrents, so monitor the results.
Whenever you catch your dog chewing their toy instead of furniture, praise them enthusiastically. Give them a treat and make it a big deal.
If you catch them in the act of chewing furniture:
Consistency is key. Never hit or punish your dog—this creates fear, not learning.
If your dog only chews when left alone, consider crate training. A properly sized and introduced crate becomes a safe space for your dog, preventing them from accessing furniture when unsupervised.
Note: Never use the crate as a punishment. It should be a positive environment.
Until your dog’s behavior improves:
If chewing continues despite your efforts, consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. Persistent chewing can sometimes indicate deeper behavioral or anxiety issues.
Stopping your dog from chewing furniture is a process that requires patience, consistency, and understanding. Rather than seeing your dog’s behavior as disobedient, recognize it as a form of communication. They’re trying to tell you something—whether it's boredom, stress, or simply a need for more appropriate outlets.
By taking the time to understand your dog’s needs and training them with positive reinforcement, you can enjoy a peaceful home—and keep your furniture intact.
Image Credits: Created by ChatGPT with DALL·E, OpenAI
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary or behavioral advice. Always consult a certified trainer or vet when needed.
Comments