3. Remove Temptations
Prevention is half the battle. Just like baby-proofing a home, dog-proofing keeps your belongings safe while your dog learns proper habits.
Do this first:
- Store shoes, clothing, and cords out of reach.
- Use baby gates to block off rooms with valuable furniture.
- Keep trash cans covered and secure.
- Provide designated “chew zones” with toys and bones.
By removing temptation, you give your dog fewer opportunities to fail — and more chances to succeed.
Tip: Always assume an unsupervised puppy will chew something. Management prevents bad habits before they form.
4. Give Enough Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A bored or restless dog is a destructive dog.
Energy release = less chewing.
Recommended daily exercise:
- Small breeds: 30–45 minutes
- Medium breeds: 60 minutes
- Large breeds: 90+ minutes
Add mental challenges too:
- Puzzle feeders
- Scent games (“Find the treat!”)
- Obedience drills or trick training
- Interactive play like fetch or tug
When dogs are tired and mentally satisfied, they’re far less likely to chew destructively.
5. Teach the “Leave It” and “Drop It” Commands
Two of the most useful commands to prevent chewing accidents.
To teach “Leave It”:
- Hold a treat in your closed hand.
- Say “Leave it.”
- When your dog stops sniffing or pawing, reward from the other hand.
- Repeat daily until they respond instantly.
To teach “Drop It”:
- Give your dog a toy.
- Say “Drop it” while showing a treat.
- Reward immediately when they release the toy.
- Repeat until the command works even when excited.
With these two commands, you can stop your dog from chewing or eating dangerous objects before it happens.