If your dog chews shoes, furniture, or random objects, it’s not just misbehavior. Chewing is communication — a natural way for dogs to explore, relieve stress, or manage boredom. Understanding the root causes helps you redirect this energy into healthy behaviors.

Common reasons dogs chew include teething, anxiety, boredom, or environmental stress. Puppies naturally explore with their mouths, but adults may chew due to unfulfilled physical or emotional needs. Simply punishing the behavior rarely works — addressing the cause does.

You can support positive chewing by:

• Offering durable chew toys or puzzle toys that engage the mind

• Establishing a structured daily routine with walks, play, and mental stimulation

• Creating safe spaces where your dog can relax without feeling confined

• Observing and removing temptations, like shoes or loose items, during unsupervised times

Stress and anxiety amplify destructive chewing. Dogs left alone for long periods or exposed to chaotic environments may use chewing to self-soothe. Comforting bedding, calming scents, and interactive toys reduce stress-related chewing naturally.

Nutritional or medical issues can also play a role. Certain deficiencies, oral pain, or digestive discomfort can prompt excessive chewing. Ensure your dog’s diet is balanced and check for oral health issues during regular vet visits.

Redirecting chewing to positive outlets preserves your belongings, strengthens the bond between you and your dog, and satisfies natural instincts. Understanding that chewing communicates physical and emotional needs is the key to long-term behavior improvement.