How to Stop Your Dog Chewing Furniture

Having a dog chew on furniture, magazines, shoes and other household objects may be a pain for owners, but it is normal behavior for the dog. Dogs chew on objects for a variety of reasons, such as boredom, loneliness, separation anxiety, teething or just to get your attention. There are several methods to use to stop your pet from gnawing on things in your house.

Things You'll Need

  • Chew toys
  • Bitter spray chewing deterrent

Instructions

    • 1

      Spray the bitter spray chewing deterrent solution on any objects your dog likes to chew. The spray is safe for all furniture and carpet so you can use it anywhere in the home. This bitter taste repels dogs but the spray is odorless to humans. Reapply every few days for maximum effectiveness.

    • 2

      Confine your dog to a specific area of the house when you are away. Smaller dogs can be placed in crates -- many dogs like this cave-like environment -- while larger dogs can be placed in a laundry room or bathroom. This not only prevents your dog from chewing on unwanted objects in certain rooms, but also keeps it out of danger and prevents other accidents from occurring.

    • 3

      Catch your dog in the act of chewing your furniture and say a firm "No!" Give your pet a chew toy and praise it when it chews the toy. Chew toys can occupy your dog and give a puppy something on which to gnaw, instead of your table leg, while it's teething.

    • 4

      Provide your dog with plenty of exercise opportunities. Take it for a walk, teach it some tricks and shower it with attention. Often, if you allow your dog to burn off some energy it will stop chewing things in your home.