Why Is My Dog Chewing Everything? 7 Causes and How to Stop It
Chewing is normal dog behavior—but when it becomes destructive, it’s usually a sign of unmet needs or a habit that needs guidance.
1) Teething (especially puppies)
Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and teething discomfort can drive chewing.
Try:
- Safe chew toys of different textures
- Frozen treats/chews designed for dogs
- Supervision + redirection, not punishment
2) Boredom and lack of enrichment
Many dogs chew as a self-soothing activity when they’re under-stimulated.
Try:
- Daily sniff walks
- Food puzzles and scatter feeding
- Short training games (2–5 minutes)
3) Stress or separation-related distress
Chewing can increase when dogs are left alone, or after routine changes.
Try:
- Build alone-time gradually
- Give long-lasting chews only when calm
- Create a quiet safe area
4) Lack of appropriate chewing outlets
If a dog doesn’t have “legal” items to chew, they’ll choose their own.
Try:
- Provide 3–5 approved chew options
- Rotate to maintain novelty
- Praise and reward when they choose the right item
5) Attention-seeking patterns
If chewing reliably causes you to react, it may become a learned strategy.
Try:
- Reward calm behavior proactively
- Limit access to tempting items (management matters)
- Redirect to a chew toy, then reward
6) Hunger or diet changes
Sometimes chewing increases with changes in feeding routines.
Try:
- Confirm feeding schedule is consistent
- Use some meals as enrichment (puzzle feeders)
7) Curiosity + exploration (especially adolescents)
Young dogs often “test” the environment.
Try:
- Dog-proof the space
- Provide supervised freedom
- Keep training and exercise consistent
Personality traits can influence chewing
High-energy, high-curiosity, or high-anxiety dogs may chew more. Understanding your dog’s tendencies helps you choose the best strategy.
You can use our Pet Personality Test as a reflection tool to explore traits like energy level, sensitivity, and trainability—then tailor enrichment accordingly.
Disclaimer: Educational content only. Not a substitute for professional advice.