Instruction: how to train a dog not to chew furniture and shoes.

Understanding the Behavior

Why Dogs Chew

As a canine behavior specialist, I explain the motivations behind destructive chewing so owners can address the root causes when correcting the habit of gnawing on upholstery and footwear.

Dogs chew for several distinct reasons. The most common drivers are:

Teething - puppies experience gum discomfort and seek relief by biting objects.
Exploration - oral investigation helps dogs gather information about their environment.
Boredom - insufficient mental stimulation leads to repetitive chewing as a self‑entertaining activity.
Separation anxiety - stress from isolation triggers oral fixation to alleviate tension.
Instinctual behavior - chewing satisfies the natural urge to break down material, a trait inherited from wild ancestors who needed to process food and maintain dental health.
Insufficient exercise - low physical output leaves excess energy that manifests as chewing.
Nutritional gaps - lack of specific nutrients can prompt the animal to seek alternative sources through mastication.

Understanding these drivers enables targeted interventions. For puppies, provide appropriate chew toys calibrated for teething relief. For adult dogs, increase interactive play, schedule regular walks, and introduce puzzle feeders to reduce idle time. When anxiety is identified, establish a predictable routine, offer safe confinement spaces, and consider professional guidance for behavior modification. Nutritional adequacy should be verified with a veterinarian to rule out deficiencies that might encourage chewing.

By addressing each underlying factor, owners can replace unwanted chewing of furniture and shoes with constructive alternatives, fostering a well‑balanced canine companion.

Common Chewing Triggers

A canine behavior specialist identifies several primary factors that provoke dogs to gnaw on household items. Understanding these triggers is essential for effective prevention.

Boredom: Lack of mental stimulation or physical activity leads dogs to seek entertainment through chewing. Regular interactive play and puzzle toys reduce this drive.
Anxiety: Separation stress or environmental changes increase oral fixation as a self‑soothing mechanism. Gradual desensitization and safe confinement spaces help mitigate anxiety‑related chewing.
Teething: Puppies experience discomfort during tooth eruption, prompting them to bite and chew. Appropriate chew toys with appropriate hardness alleviate pressure on emerging teeth.
Nutritional deficiencies: Insufficient minerals, especially calcium, can cause compulsive chewing. Balanced diets and veterinary assessment ensure dietary adequacy.
Lack of training: Absence of clear boundaries leaves dogs uncertain about acceptable objects. Consistent redirection to designated chew items establishes proper limits.

Each trigger interacts with the dog’s environment and temperament. Addressing them through enrichment, routine, and targeted training creates a predictable context where furniture and shoes remain untouched.

Prevention Strategies

Puppy-Proofing Your Home

As a certified canine behavior specialist, I advise owners to treat the home environment as the first line of defense against destructive chewing. Removing or securing items that attract a puppy eliminates the immediate incentive to gnaw on furniture legs, cords, or footwear.

Store shoes in closed closets or on high shelves inaccessible to the dog.
Use chew‑resistant covers for furniture corners and legs; replace fabric cushions with durable, washable alternatives.
Conceal electrical cords with PVC sleeves or cord organizers, then anchor them to walls or baseboards.
Keep trash cans fitted with tight lids and place them out of reach.
Allocate a specific area for the puppy’s toys, rotating them regularly to maintain interest.

Providing appropriate chew objects is essential. Offer a variety of textures-rubber, rope, and frozen treats-to satisfy the puppy’s natural urge to bite. Position these items near the areas where the dog previously chewed, then gradually relocate them to a designated play zone.

Supervision and confinement work together. When the owner cannot monitor the puppy, confine the animal to a crate or a puppy‑proofed room equipped with safe toys, a water bowl, and a comfortable bed. This prevents unsupervised access to vulnerable household items while reinforcing the association between the crate and calm behavior.

Consistent redirection reinforces the lesson. If the puppy approaches a prohibited object, calmly intervene, replace the item with an approved chew, and praise the dog for choosing the alternative. Repeating this pattern builds a reliable habit that reduces reliance on furniture and shoes as chewing targets.

Regular inspection of the environment helps maintain safety. Conduct a weekly walkthrough, noting any new objects that could become chew temptations, and adjust the protective measures accordingly. This proactive approach sustains a chew‑free home and supports the overall training objective.

Providing Appropriate Chewing Alternatives

Providing suitable chew objects is fundamental when redirecting a dog's natural gnawing instinct away from sofas, chairs, and footwear. Select items that match the animal’s size, bite strength, and dental health needs. Durable rubber toys, reinforced nylon bones, and natural fibers such as hemp or cotton rope serve well for power chewers. For lighter chewers, softer silicone treats or frozen broth‑infused toys offer texture variety without risking damage.

Rotate the assortment regularly. Introducing a new chew every few days maintains interest and prevents habituation. Store unused items in a clean, dry container to preserve scent and hygiene. When a dog approaches prohibited objects, present an appropriate alternative immediately. Use a clear verbal cue-such as “chew” or “leave it”-followed by the replacement item. Reward the correct choice with enthusiastic praise and a brief treat, reinforcing the association between the cue, the alternative, and positive feedback.

Monitor wear on each chew. Replace items showing cracks, splintering, or excessive softness to avoid ingestion hazards. Incorporate edible chews, like bully sticks or dental chews, only under supervision; limit duration to prevent overconsumption of calories. Pair edible options with non‑edible toys to balance nutritional intake and satisfy the mechanical aspect of chewing.

Maintain a tidy environment. Remove shoes from sight, secure loose cords, and apply deterrent sprays to furniture edges if necessary. A clutter‑free space reduces accidental encounters with forbidden items, allowing the dog to focus on the designated chew resources.

Consistent application of these practices creates a predictable routine. The dog learns that acceptable chewing targets are always available, reducing frustration and the impulse to damage household furnishings.

Types of Chew Toys

As a canine behavior specialist, I advise owners to replace furniture and shoe damage with appropriate chew toys that satisfy a dog’s natural oral activity.

Solid rubber toys: dense, non‑porous, withstand aggressive gnawing; ideal for dogs that bite with force.
Nylon bones: engineered with textured surfaces that promote dental cleaning while offering long‑lasting durability.
Rope toys: braided fibers provide a safe outlet for pulling and chewing; can be soaked to add flavor.
Edible chewables: freeze‑dry treats, bully sticks, or flavored chews deliver taste and oral satisfaction; monitor intake to prevent excess calories.
Interactive puzzle toys: compartments hide treats, encouraging mental engagement alongside chewing.
Natural chews: antlers, rawhide alternatives, and hemp sticks furnish scent and texture that mimic prey items; select products free of chemicals.

When choosing a toy, match the size of the item to the dog’s jaw width; a toy that is too small poses choking hazards, while an oversized one fails to engage. Verify that the material is non‑toxic and free of small fragments that could be ingested. Rotate toys regularly to maintain novelty and prevent habituation.

Each toy type addresses a specific driver of destructive chewing: rubber and nylon absorb high‑impact bites; rope and natural chews satisfy oral fixation and scent interest; edible and puzzle toys mitigate boredom by adding reward and problem‑solving. Pair the introduction of a new chew with verbal praise or a clicker cue to reinforce the desired behavior.

Consistent availability of suitable chew toys, combined with supervision and positive reinforcement, redirects the dog’s chewing instinct away from upholstery and footwear, establishing a sustainable, damage‑free environment.

Rotation of Toys

When a dog repeatedly targets furniture or footwear, the underlying issue is often boredom combined with a lack of appropriate outlets for chewing. Introducing a systematic rotation of toys creates novelty, sustains interest, and redirects the animal’s bite energy away from prohibited items.

A rotation schedule should include the following elements:

Selection of safe chew items - durable rubber, nylon bones, and rope toys designed for heavy chewers.
Variety of textures - hard, medium, and soft options to satisfy different mouth sensations.
Controlled exposure - present two to three toys for a 2‑3‑day period, then replace them with a different set.
Observation and recording - note which toys attract the most attention and which are ignored, adjusting the pool accordingly.
Cleaning routine - wash or replace toys regularly to prevent odor buildup that can diminish appeal.

Consistent rotation prevents habituation; the dog perceives each new toy as a fresh resource, reducing the temptation to gnaw on household items. Pair the toy schedule with brief supervised play sessions, reinforcing the connection between the chosen toys and positive interaction. Over time, the dog learns that acceptable chewing targets are limited to the rotating selection, while furniture and shoes remain off‑limits.

Crate Training

As a canine behavior specialist, I recommend crate training as a core component of preventing destructive chewing of furniture and footwear. The crate creates a safe, confined environment where the dog learns to associate calm behavior with a designated space.

The process begins with selecting a crate sized to allow the dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably, yet small enough to discourage elimination inside. Introduce the crate gradually: place a familiar blanket, open the door, and reward the dog for entering voluntarily. Avoid forcing the animal inside, which can generate anxiety and increase the likelihood of chewing elsewhere.

Key steps for effective crate training:

Establish positive associations - feed meals inside the crate, offer high‑value treats when the dog steps in, and use a calm voice.
Set short confinement periods - start with 5‑minute intervals, gradually extending to 30‑45 minutes, always ending with praise or a brief play session.
Maintain consistent schedule - align crate time with the dog’s natural rest periods and after exercise, reinforcing the expectation of calm behavior.
Provide appropriate chew items - supply durable, dog‑safe toys or chew bones inside the crate to satisfy the dog’s natural gnawing instinct without damaging household items.
Monitor behavior - observe signs of stress (excessive barking, panting, attempts to escape). Adjust duration or crate placement if needed.

When the dog is confined, the opportunity to chew inappropriate objects diminishes dramatically. Outside the crate, reinforce the same principles: supervise the dog, redirect chewing toward approved toys, and reward selection of appropriate items. Consistency across crate and free‑movement periods ensures the dog internalizes the rule that furniture and shoes are off‑limits.

Implementing crate training alongside regular exercise, mental stimulation, and clear boundaries creates a comprehensive strategy that curbs destructive chewing while fostering confidence and obedience.

Supervision and Redirection

Effective management of a dog’s chewing behavior hinges on two complementary practices: vigilant supervision and purposeful redirection.

When the dog is within sight, the owner can intervene before destructive chewing occurs. This requires consistent placement of the animal in a controlled environment-such as a crate, a gated area, or a room with limited access to vulnerable items. The supervisor must observe body language for signs of anxiety or boredom, which often precede chewing episodes. Immediate, calm interruption prevents the behavior from becoming reinforced.

Redirection supplies an acceptable outlet for the dog’s natural urge to gnaw. The process involves three steps:

Present an appropriate chew object - durable toys, rope chews, or frozen carrots satisfy oral stimulation without harming household goods.
Guide the dog to the object - use a cue (“chew”) and gently place the toy in the mouth, reinforcing the switch with a brief, enthusiastic praise.
Reward successful engagement - deliver a treat or verbal affirmation the moment the dog bites the designated item, establishing a clear association between the correct object and positive outcome.

Consistency across all household members amplifies the effect. Everyone must apply the same supervision standards and redirection cues, eliminating mixed signals.

If unsupervised periods are unavoidable, the dog should remain in a confinement space equipped with a selection of chew-appropriate items. This prevents accidental damage while preserving the training momentum.

By pairing constant observation with immediate, constructive alternatives, owners replace destructive chewing with a habit that satisfies the dog’s instinctual needs and preserves household furnishings.

Training Techniques

Teaching "Leave It"

Teaching the “Leave It” command provides a reliable interruption when a dog approaches furniture or shoes. The cue creates a mental pause, allowing the owner to redirect attention before the animal begins to chew.

Choose a high‑value treat that the dog finds irresistible.
Present the treat in a closed hand, letting the dog sniff but not obtain it.
When the dog pauses or backs away, say “Leave it” in a calm, firm tone and immediately reward with a different treat from the other hand.
Repeat until the dog consistently withdraws from the initial hand upon hearing the cue.
Transfer the exercise to real objects: place a shoe or a piece of furniture within reach, say “Leave it,” and reward the dog for moving away or focusing on a designated toy.
Gradually increase distraction levels by adding other pets, people, or louder environments, maintaining the same command‑reward pattern.
Incorporate brief practice sessions throughout the day to reinforce the command, ensuring the dog associates “Leave it” with immediate positive reinforcement.

Consistent application of these steps builds the dog’s impulse control, reducing the likelihood of destructive chewing on household items.

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is the most reliable method for redirecting a dog’s chewing behavior away from furniture and footwear. By rewarding alternatives, the animal learns which actions produce desirable outcomes, while undesirable actions receive no reward.

Begin with a clear set of chew‑appropriate items such as durable toys or designated chew sticks. Offer one of these items each time the dog shows interest in a piece of furniture or a shoe. Immediately follow the appropriate bite with a high‑value treat or enthusiastic verbal praise. Consistency ensures the dog associates the specific object with a positive consequence.

Maintain a schedule that provides several short training sessions daily. Each session should include:

Presentation of a chew‑appropriate item.
Observation of the dog’s interaction.
Immediate reward for correct chewing.
Removal of the item if the dog attempts to chew prohibited objects, without scolding.

Environmental management supports the reinforcement process. Remove shoes from reach, use baby gates to block access to vulnerable furniture, and keep chew toys visible. When the dog approaches a restricted area, redirect attention to the approved item before any chewing occurs.

Track progress by noting the frequency of successful redirections versus instances of unsanctioned chewing. Adjust the reward intensity-higher value treats for early successes, tapering to verbal praise as the behavior stabilizes. This gradual reduction maintains the learned habit without creating dependence on food rewards.

Finally, reinforce the training by integrating the same reward system into routine activities such as walks or feeding times. Consistent application across contexts solidifies the dog’s understanding that appropriate chewing yields positive outcomes, while furniture and shoes remain off‑limits.

Bitter Sprays and Deterrents

Bitter sprays and deterrents are chemical agents formulated to taste unpleasant to dogs, discouraging them from gnawing on household items. The active ingredients-often concentrated capsaicin, citrus oil, or bitter almond extract-trigger a rapid aversive response when the dog bites the treated surface.

When selecting a product, consider the following criteria:

FDA‑registered or veterinary‑approved formulation ensures safety for skin and ingestion in small amounts.
Non‑staining composition protects upholstery, wood, and leather from discoloration.
Odor profile that does not repel the owner, allowing continued use of treated areas.
Compatibility with cleaning routines; some sprays require reapplication after washing.

Application steps:

Test a small, inconspicuous area for colorfastness before full coverage.
Clean the target surface to remove dust and oils that could dilute the deterrent.
Apply the spray evenly, following the manufacturer’s recommended distance (typically 6-8 inches).
Allow the product to dry completely, usually 10-15 minutes, before allowing the dog near the area.
Reapply according to the product’s durability guidelines, often after cleaning or heavy use.

Safety considerations:

Monitor the dog for signs of irritation; discontinue use if redness, excessive drooling, or vomiting occurs.
Store the spray out of reach of pets and children to prevent accidental ingestion.
Avoid use on chew toys intended for regular oral interaction, as constant exposure may lead to desensitization.

Limitations:

Bitter agents do not address the underlying motivation to chew, such as boredom or anxiety.
Overreliance can result in the dog learning to avoid the specific treated object while seeking alternative items.
Some dogs may be less sensitive to bitterness, reducing effectiveness.

Integrating deterrents with a comprehensive training plan yields the best outcome. Pair the spray with positive reinforcement for appropriate chewing behavior-offer approved chew toys, schedule regular exercise, and provide mental stimulation. Consistency in applying deterrents, coupled with reinforcement of desired actions, gradually reduces the dog's inclination to damage furniture and shoes.

Addressing Boredom and Anxiety

As a certified canine behavior specialist, I observe that destructive chewing of furniture and footwear most often originates from insufficient mental engagement or heightened anxiety. Recognizing these underlying motivations is essential for effective intervention.

Boredom manifests when a dog lacks purposeful activities. Without regular problem‑solving tasks, the animal seeks stimulation through destructive outlets. Physical fatigue alone does not guarantee mental satisfaction; a dog may still target household items if its brain remains under‑challenged.

Anxiety appears when a dog experiences stressors such as separation, loud noises, or changes in routine. The resulting nervous energy is frequently expressed through chewing, which temporarily reduces tension through oral activity.

Practical measures to counteract boredom and anxiety include:

Structured play sessions lasting 10‑15 minutes, three times daily, featuring puzzle toys that require manipulation to release treats.
Daily walks of at least 30 minutes, varied in route and pace, to provide novel scents and terrain.
Scheduled “quiet time” in a safe crate or designated area, accompanied by a calibrated chew toy that mimics the texture of furniture or shoes.
Gradual desensitization to triggers: expose the dog to low‑level versions of stressful sounds while rewarding calm behavior.
Consistent feeding schedule to reinforce predictability and reduce stress‑related uncertainty.

Consistency in applying these techniques, coupled with close observation of the dog’s response, determines success. Persistent chewing despite adjustments may indicate deeper emotional issues; referral to a veterinary behaviorist becomes appropriate.

Increased Exercise

Increased physical activity directly reduces the likelihood that a dog will target furniture or shoes for chewing. Energy expenditure during walks, play sessions, and structured workouts satisfies the animal’s innate drive for movement, leaving less motivation for destructive behavior.

A well‑balanced exercise regimen should include:

Daily walks of at least 30 minutes, varied in speed and terrain to stimulate different muscle groups.
Two short, high‑intensity play bursts (5-10 minutes each) using fetch, tug, or agility drills.
One focused training block (10-15 minutes) that pairs obedience cues with movement, such as “heel” while navigating obstacles.
Evening mental‑physical activity, for example a scent‑tracking game or puzzle toy that requires the dog to move and think.

Consistency matters: schedule sessions at the same times each day to create predictable outlets for energy. Adjust duration and intensity according to the dog’s age, breed, and health status; younger, high‑energy breeds may need up to two hours of active time, while senior dogs benefit from milder, longer walks.

When the dog returns from exercise, provide a brief cool‑down period and a calm environment. This transition helps the animal shift from arousal to relaxation, decreasing the impulse to chew as a stress response. Monitoring behavior after each session allows the owner to fine‑tune the routine, ensuring that the dog’s physical needs are met without overexertion.

Mental Stimulation

Mental stimulation redirects a dog’s natural curiosity away from furniture and footwear. Engaging the brain satisfies the urge to explore, thereby lowering the likelihood of destructive chewing.

Effective techniques include:

Puzzle feeders that require problem‑solving to release food.
Short, focused obedience drills that introduce new commands every few days.
Scent‑based games such as hidden‑treat searches, which encourage investigative behavior.
Interactive play sessions with tug ropes or fetch, alternating toys to keep interest high.
Training sessions that teach “leave it” and “drop it,” reinforcing impulse control.

Consistent variation prevents habituation. Rotate toys and puzzles every 2-3 days, and introduce novel challenges weekly. Pair each mental task with praise or a high‑value reward to strengthen the association between thoughtful activity and positive outcomes.

When mental enrichment is paired with regular physical exercise, the combined effect reduces the drive to chew inappropriate items. Implementing these strategies creates a structured environment where the dog’s intellect is continuously exercised, diminishing the appeal of furniture and shoes as chew targets.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional assistance becomes necessary when a dog’s chewing behavior persists despite consistent training, or when it escalates to aggression, anxiety, or health concerns. Ignoring these signals can reinforce destructive habits and jeopardize safety for both the animal and household members.

Key indicators that warrant consultation with a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviorist include:

Chewing continues after implementing deterrents, supervised play, and appropriate chew toys for several weeks.
The dog attacks or aggressively destroys furniture, shoes, or other objects, causing injury to itself or people.
Chewing is accompanied by excessive barking, pacing, or other signs of heightened stress.
The animal exhibits compulsive chewing, such as gnawing on non‑edible items (plastic, wires) repeatedly.
Sudden changes in chewing patterns follow a life event (move, new family member, loss) and do not improve with routine adjustments.
Underlying medical issues are suspected, such as dental pain or gastrointestinal discomfort, that may motivate oral fixation.

When any of these conditions appear, owners should first schedule a veterinary examination to rule out medical causes. Following clearance, a certified behavior specialist can conduct a functional assessment, design a customized modification plan, and provide hands‑on coaching. Engaging professionals early prevents the behavior from becoming entrenched and promotes a healthier, more harmonious environment.