Stephan MairesseWhy Dogs Chew Furniture — and Why Saying “No” Doesn't Stop It
Dogs chew to explore, because they like it, or — when they are not dominated — to get your attention. And saying “no” doesn't stop it: your dog learns that he is allowed until the “no,” and that he can start again when you are not looking.
This article covers chewing when you are at home. If your dog chews only when he is alone, it is linked to separation anxiety — a different problem, with a different solution.
Why does a dog chew?
A natural exploratory behavior. Dogs explore with their mouth: it is the only part of their body that allows them to grab things effectively (they also use their paws, but it is less effective). So a dog naturally grabs with his mouth in order to discover — but this does not necessarily lead to chewing.
Because he likes it. A dog chews sticks, bones, toys, and can do it with anything within reach of his mouth. You make a distinction in value between your wooden coffee table and a stick from the garden; your dog does not. He must learn that certain objects must not be chewed. A dog may chew a basket, a wooden chair, a wall, because he feels the need to chew, or because the object itself is pleasant to chew.
To get your attention. A dog who is not dominated may chew objects, furniture or clothes to get your attention. If he asks for it in his usual ways — coming to you directly, bringing you a ball — and you ignore him, chewing what he is not allowed to touch is a very effective way to get it. Even if the attention you give him is not pleasant, it is still attention, and that is what he was looking for.
Why saying “no” doesn't stop it
If you say “no” to your dog every time, on the one hand he will think that before the “no” he is allowed to do it, and on the other hand you will always need to say “no” for him to stop. Some dogs will stop after the “no” — and start again.
Stephan MairesseProfessional dog trainer & canine behaviorist, 30 years of experience across 16 countries, more than 2,000 dogs trained. Certification N°750108. Read his full background →
How to make chewing stop for good — whether you are in the room or not — is covered step by step in Module 8 of the course, along with the separation anxiety program for dogs that chew when alone.
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