Coming home to a shredded cushion (or shoe, or table leg) is one of the most frustrating parts of dog ownership. But here's the reframe that changes everything: your dog isn't being spiteful. Chewing is normal, natural dog behavior — the problem is only what they're chewing. Fix the cause and give the urge somewhere to go, and destructive chewing fades. Here's how, step by step.
1. Figure out why it's happening
Chewing usually traces back to one of a few causes: teething (puppies), boredom or under-stimulation, pent-up energy, or anxiety. The fix depends on the cause, so start here.
2. Dog-proof the space
While you're working on the behavior, set your dog up to win. Put shoes, cables, and tempting items out of reach, and use a crate or a gated area with safe chews when you can't supervise. Management prevents "practice" — and every chewed cushion is practice.
3. Give the urge a legal outlet
Dogs need to chew, so provide appropriate options: sturdy chew toys, rubber toys you can stuff and freeze, and safe chews sized for your dog. Have them available where your dog spends time.
4. Redirect, then reward
Catch your dog chewing the wrong thing? Calmly swap it for an approved chew, and praise them the moment they take it. You're teaching a simple rule: "this earns good things, that doesn't." Consistency matters more than intensity.
5. Burn the energy — body and brain
A big share of destructive chewing is simply unspent energy. Make sure your dog gets enough physical exercise and mental stimulation. A dog with a satisfied mind has far less reason to redecorate your living room.
Give the busy brain a real job
If boredom is driving the behavior, a structured, game-based program can channel that energy. We took a closer look at one built around 21 progressive games from a certified trainer.
Read: Is Brain Training for Dogs worth it? →6. Address anxiety if it's there
If the chewing is tied to being left alone and comes with pacing, drooling, or distress, you may be dealing with separation anxiety. Build alone-time gradually, keep departures low-key, and talk to your vet or a behaviorist for a proper plan.
7. Skip the punishment
Scolding after the fact doesn't work — your dog won't connect it to the chewing, and it can add anxiety (which causes more chewing). Reward the right choices instead. It's slower to feel like "discipline," but it's what actually sticks.