6. Use Taste Deterrent Sprays on Furniture and Wires
Dogs dislike bitter or citrus tastes — you can use this to your advantage.
Try deterrents like:
- Bitter apple spray
- Citrus spray (safe, dog-approved)
- Homemade solution: 1 part white vinegar + 3 parts water
How to use:
- Spray on table legs, shoes, cords, or baseboards.
- Reapply daily or after cleaning.
- Always test a small area first to ensure no surface damage.
Pro Tip: Combine deterrent sprays with training — never rely on them alone.
7. Provide Plenty of Safe Alternatives
Redirecting chewing behavior is far more effective than trying to stop it completely.
Make sure your dog has plenty of legal options.
Great chew alternatives:
- Natural bones or antlers (supervised only)
- Bully sticks or Himalayan chews
- Rope toys
- Frozen carrot sticks for puppies
- Dental chews for oral health
Rotate toys weekly so your dog doesn’t get bored.
Always supervise new chews to prevent choking.
8. Address Anxiety or Stress-Based Chewing
If your dog chews when left alone or during storms, it may be anxiety-related.
Signs of stress chewing:
- Chewing only when alone
- Destroying doors, crates, or blinds
- Panting, whining, pacing
How to fix it:
- Practice short departures and arrivals calmly.
- Leave comfort items (a worn shirt, blanket).
- Play calming music or white noise.
- Use anxiety aids like Adaptil diffusers or Thundershirt.
If severe, consult your vet or a certified behaviorist — anxiety chewing can sometimes require professional treatment.
9. Supervise and Interrupt Early
The best training happens in the moment. Catch your dog as soon as they start chewing something wrong.
What to do:
- Say a firm but calm “No” or “Ah-ah!”
- Gently take the object away.
- Immediately offer an appropriate toy.
- Praise your dog for chewing the correct item.
This teaches “chew this, not that” through redirection, not punishment.
Punishing after the fact doesn’t work — dogs don’t connect past actions to current scolding.