Why do dogs chew?
Chewing is one of the most natural things a dog can do. It is how puppies explore the world, how adolescent dogs relieve teething discomfort, and how adult dogs burn nervous energy. The challenge for owners is that ‘natural’ does not always mean ‘acceptable’.
Before you can address the behaviour, you need to understand what is driving it. Applying the wrong solution — such as punishment for anxiety-driven chewing — will not only fail but can make things significantly worse.
The four main causes
1. Teething (puppies 3–6 months)
Puppies lose their milk teeth and grow adult teeth between roughly three and six months of age. During this period, their gums are sore and chewing provides direct physical relief. This type of chewing is temporary and generally resolves on its own — but directing it toward appropriate objects is important for forming lasting habits.
2. Boredom and under-stimulation
Dogs that do not receive enough physical exercise or mental stimulation will find their own entertainment. Chewing is often the result. Working breeds — Border Collies, Huskies, Labradors — are especially prone to this if their activity needs are not met. The fix here is more exercise and enrichment, not just redirection.
3. Separation anxiety
Dogs with separation anxiety often chew when left alone. This is a self-soothing behaviour triggered by the stress of being separated from their owner. Unlike boredom chewing, this typically occurs within the first 20–30 minutes of you leaving, and may be accompanied by vocalisation, pacing, or accidents indoors.
4. Natural exploratory behaviour
Some dogs simply enjoy chewing as an activity. It releases endorphins, cleans teeth, and occupies the jaw. For these dogs, the solution is providing appropriate outlets rather than trying to eliminate the behaviour entirely.
How to tell which type you are dealing with
Keep a simple log for one week. Note when the chewing happens, what is being chewed, and whether you were present. Patterns reveal causes:
- Chewing only when you’re away → likely separation anxiety
- Chewing after long periods with no exercise → likely boredom
- Chewing on specific textures (shoes, leather, wood) → possibly sensory preference
- Puppy chewing everything → likely teething
What to do about it
Once you have identified the cause, the approach becomes straightforward:
- Teething: Provide safe, vet-approved chew toys. Frozen carrots can soothe sore gums.
- Boredom: Increase daily exercise, add puzzle feeders, rotate toys to keep them novel.
- Separation anxiety: This is a training challenge. Gradual desensitisation to departures is the most effective approach. Consult a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist.
- Exploratory chewing: Provide appropriate chew items and manage access to household items through crating or baby gates when unsupervised.
What not to do
Punishment — shouting, physical correction, or citrus sprays applied after the fact — is ineffective and can worsen anxiety-based chewing. Dogs do not connect a punishment delivered minutes after an event with the behaviour itself.
