If you’ve ever walked into your living room only to find your favorite couch leg gnawed down like a chew toy, you’re not alone. One of the most common issues new pet parents face is figuring out how to stop your puppy from chewing furniture. While it can be frustrating, chewing is a natural part of puppy development, and with the right strategies, you can redirect their behavior safely and effectively.
Why Puppies Chew
Puppies chew for several reasons, and understanding the cause is key to solving the problem:
- Teething discomfort: Puppies start teething at around 3 weeks and continue until about 6 months of age. Chewing helps soothe sore gums.
- Exploration: Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Chewing is how they learn about their environment.
- Boredom: If your puppy isn’t getting enough mental stimulation, they may start chewing furniture out of sheer boredom.
- Anxiety or stress: Separation anxiety or sudden changes in environment can also lead to destructive chewing behavior.
Now that we know the reasons, let’s dive into how to stop your puppy from chewing furniture.
Provide Appropriate Chewing Alternatives 🦴
One of the first steps is giving your puppy something they can chew. Provide a variety of textures, such as:
- Rubber chew toys
- Soft plush toys (for gentle chewers)
- Frozen carrots or wet cloths (great for teething pups)
- Dental sticks or safe puppy bones
Rotate toys weekly so your pup doesn’t get bored. When you catch them chewing something inappropriate, immediately redirect them to one of their toys. Praise them once they engage with the toy instead — positive reinforcement works wonders.
Use Deterrent Sprays
Pet-safe deterrent sprays with bitter flavors can help protect your furniture. Spray the product on areas your puppy targets. These sprays are harmless but taste unpleasant to dogs, discouraging repeat offenses.
Remember to reapply regularly, especially after cleaning or rain if you’ve sprayed outdoor furniture.
Keep Furniture Off-Limits Temporarily 🚫
Until your puppy learns what’s acceptable to chew, limit their access to rooms with furniture you want to protect. Use baby gates or puppy pens to section off safe zones.
You can also puppy-proof your space by removing pillows, rugs, and shoes — anything tempting and within reach.
Keep Them Busy 🧠
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. A bored puppy is a mischievous one! Consider these enrichment ideas:
- Puzzle feeders
- Hide-and-seek games with treats
- Training sessions with basic commands
- Playdates with other vaccinated puppies
Tired puppies are less likely to chew furniture just to burn energy.
Crate Training Helps
Crate training isn’t about punishment — it’s about creating a safe space for your puppy. When done properly, your puppy will feel secure in their crate and less likely to engage in destructive behavior while you’re away or busy.
Give your puppy a chew-safe toy inside the crate so they have something productive to do.
Correct Behavior Gently
Never scold or punish your puppy after the fact. They won’t understand what they did wrong unless they’re caught in the act. Instead:
- Interrupt the behavior with a gentle “no” or clap.
- Redirect them to a chew toy.
- Praise and reward them for chewing the correct item.
Consistency is key. Everyone in the household should follow the same approach to avoid confusing the puppy.
Rule Out Medical Issues 🩺
Sometimes excessive chewing may be due to nutritional deficiencies or gastrointestinal problems. If your puppy’s behavior seems extreme or they’re chewing and swallowing dangerous items, consult your vet for guidance.
Teething-Specific Solutions
Teething can be a painful phase, so providing comfort is essential. You can:
- Freeze a wet washcloth for them to chew
- Offer frozen banana slices as a soothing treat
- Massage their gums gently with a clean finger or pet-safe gel
These tricks can help reduce their need to chew everything in sight, including your furniture.
Be Patient — It’s a Phase
It may feel overwhelming now, but chewing doesn’t last forever. Most puppies outgrow this phase by the time they’re 6–8 months old, especially if they’re properly guided. Stick to your training plan and be consistent with redirection and rewards.
Final Thoughts
Figuring out how to stop your puppy from chewing furniture takes patience, structure, and a bit of creativity. By giving them the right outlets, removing temptations, and reinforcing positive behavior, your pup will soon learn what’s chew-worthy and what’s not. 🐾Petsdogpuppy