Why Is My Puppy Chewing Everything?
Is your puppy chewing everything in sight? This is very common for new puppy owners. Most puppies chew because they are teething.
Puppies explore the world with their mouths. When they start teething, their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth grow in. This can make their gums sore and itchy, so they chew to feel better.
Teething usually starts at about three weeks old and can last until around seven months. Some breeds may take a little longer. During this time, puppies may also bite more while they learn what is okay to chew.
Give Your Puppy the Right Chew Toys
The best way to manage chewing is to redirect it to safe toys.
Give your puppy different types of chew toys, such as:
- Durable rubber toys
- Rope toys
- Puzzle toys that release treats
These toys help soothe sore gums and keep your puppy busy. Rotate toys regularly so your puppy doesn’t get bored and start chewing household items instead.
Always choose toys that are safe, durable, and designed for puppies.
Use Redirection and Positive Reinforcement
If you catch your puppy chewing something they shouldn’t, stay calm.
- Gently interrupt the behavior.
- Give them an appropriate chew toy.
- Praise them when they chew the toy instead.
This teaches your puppy what is okay to chew. Positive reinforcement helps them learn faster and prevents bad habits.
How to Stop Puppies from Chewing Furniture or Shoes
It can be frustrating when puppies chew furniture or shoes. To prevent this:
- Keep shoes and valuables out of reach
- Make sure your puppy always has chew toys available
- Redirect them whenever they choose the wrong item
Consistency is important. The more you guide them to the right toys, the faster they will learn.
When Do Puppies Stop Teething and Chewing?
Most puppies finish the main teething stage by about seven months old. However, some may continue chewing if they are bored or looking for comfort.
Even after teething ends, it’s important to provide:
- Chew toys
- Mental stimulation
- Regular playtime
This helps your puppy develop healthy chewing habits that last into adulthood.
Related Products
FAQ
Puppies chew as part of their natural development, especially during the teething phase. As their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth grow in, their gums can become sore and itchy. Chewing helps relieve this discomfort and allows puppies to explore their environment.
Puppy teething typically begins around three weeks of age and can last until about seven months. However, some puppies may continue chewing beyond this stage for comfort or due to boredom.
Durable rubber toys, rope toys, and treat-dispensing puzzle toys are great options. Providing a variety of textures helps soothe sore gums and keeps your puppy engaged.
Keep valuable items out of reach and ensure your puppy always has access to appropriate chew toys. If you catch your puppy chewing something inappropriate, calmly redirect them to a designated toy and praise them for using it.
Use redirection and positive reinforcement. When your puppy chews the wrong item, interrupt the behavior and offer a suitable chew toy instead. Praise them when they choose the correct item to reinforce good chewing habits.