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Finding fresh tooth marks on the sofa is frustrating, but your dog is not doing it to annoy you. Chewing is a normal behavior. The goal is to give it a suitable outlet while working out why the furniture has become so appealing.

Start With When It Happens

Puppies explore with their mouths and may chew more while teething. Dogs of any age may also turn to furniture when suitable chew items or activities are missing from their routine.

Notice the pattern. Does chewing happen during quiet afternoons, when your dog is unsupervised, or mainly when you leave? Chewing during absences, especially alongside pacing, drooling, vocalizing, or escape attempts, may point to distress rather than boredom. A veterinarian or qualified behavior professional can help assess it.

Make the Right Choice Easier

Manage Access

Use supervision, closed doors, or secure gates to protect tempting furniture while your dog learns. Keep electrical cords, medicines, cleaning products, and small objects out of reach. Provide a comfortable, dog-safe area rather than using confinement as punishment.

A crate is suitable only if your dog has been gradually introduced to it and stays relaxed inside. If they panic or try to escape, seek help with a safer arrangement instead.

Offer Appropriate Chew Items

Choose items suited to your dog's size and chewing strength. Supervise new toys, avoid very hard objects that may damage teeth, and remove anything that breaks apart or becomes small enough to swallow. Ask your veterinarian if you are unsure which options are suitable.

Rotate a few toys to keep them interesting. If you use edible chews or food-filled toys, include them in your dog's daily food intake.

Reward Good Choices

When your dog picks an appropriate chew, offer calm praise or a reward. If you catch them chewing furniture, gently redirect them to an alternative and reward their interest in it. Shouting does not show them what to do instead.

Do not force their mouth open or confront them over a guarded object. If your dog stiffens, growls, or guards items, get professional guidance on safe handling and training.

Build a Routine That Meets Their Needs

Combine comfortable physical activity with sniffing, short training sessions, supervised enrichment, and time to rest. Match activities to your dog's age, health, and preferences. The aim is a balanced day, not simply wearing them out.

If your dog becomes distressed when alone, an individualized plan is more useful than extra exercise or a new toy alone. Ask for help rather than leaving them to “cry it out.” Alone-time practice should stay within their comfort level.

When Chewing Needs Veterinary Attention

Arrange an assessment if chewing starts suddenly, comes with mouth pain or other changes, or includes repeatedly eating non-food objects. Digestive or calming supplements are not a substitute for finding the cause.

If you suspect your dog has swallowed a dangerous object or substance, contact a veterinarian promptly, even if they seem well. Choking, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting, marked lethargy, or a painful or swollen abdomen require urgent care. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional tells you to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will My Puppy Grow Out of Furniture Chewing?

Teething-related chewing may ease as a puppy matures, but chewing remains a normal need. Supervision, suitable alternatives, and consistent rewards help build habits that last beyond puppyhood.

Should I Punish My Dog When I Find Damage?

No. Focus on preventing another opportunity and teaching an alternative. Punishment after you discover damage does not give your dog a clear lesson about what they should chew.

Can a Deterrent Spray Help?

A dog-safe deterrent may discourage some dogs, but it will not address the reason for chewing. Follow the label, check suitability for the surface, and never spray it into your dog's mouth or onto their body. Treat it as an addition to management, not the whole plan.

Progress comes from making appropriate chewing easy and rewarding, while addressing any discomfort or distress behind the behavior.

This article provides general information and does not replace individualized veterinary or behavioral advice.