Puppies often chew on everything in sight while teething to relieve discomfort. Other possible causes of this behavior include exploratory curiosity, stress, or boredom. To wean your puppy off destructive behavior, it’s important to establish simple and clear rules from the moment they arrive in their new home.

Why does my puppy chew everything?

There are several explanations for why puppies may exhibit destructive behavior:

• The process of teething. During the period when baby teeth are falling out and permanent teeth are just beginning to erupt, a puppy can experience significant discomfort and pain. Inflammation of the gums makes this period especially unpleasant, and gnawing on objects can help alleviate the pain.
• A natural desire to explore the world. Puppies explore their surroundings with great curiosity, and any new objects with an unusual smell or texture become objects of exploration.
• Excess energy. Puppies have an inexhaustible supply of energy, and if they don’t get enough exercise and opportunities for active pastime, they may begin to “redirect” their energy by destroying objects in the house.
• Feelings of loneliness and separation from the owner. When a puppy is left alone, it can experience severe stress and anxiety. In an attempt to cope with emotional distress, the puppy may begin chewing, barking, and exhibiting other destructive behavior.
• Tension. Puppy anxiety and stress often find their outlet in repetitive behaviors, such as relentless chewing or licking the floor.
• Dietary issues. Sometimes, an interest in non-food items is caused by improper nutrition and a lack of essential nutrients in the puppy’s body (1).

How to stop a puppy from chewing everything

To correct unwanted behavior in your four-legged friend, you can use the following methods:

• Establish a ban on unwanted behavior. State a clear and calm command that lets your pet know their behavior is unacceptable. Gently remove them from the forbidden object and eliminate any further contact with it.
• Divert your puppy’s attention. Help him switch to a more useful activity—offer him an engaging toy or conduct a short training session, repeating familiar commands.
• Reward good behavior. As soon as you notice your puppy voluntarily refraining from destroying things and preferring toys, immediately reward them with a tasty treat. This will help reinforce positive behavior.
• Limit access to tempting objects when you’re away. To minimize the risk of unwanted behavior when you’re away, you can create a confined space for your puppy, such as a run or a special crate.
• Increase physical and mental stimulation. During walks, introduce your pet to new locations, devote more time to active outdoor play, and gradually introduce new commands into the training program (2).

What not to do if your puppy chews everything

When a puppy curiously explores its surroundings and tries everything with its teeth, don’t react with aggression or displeasure. It’s useless to express displeasure after the puppy has stopped chewing—it won’t be able to establish the connection between its actions and your reaction, and fear of your owner may become firmly ingrained in its mind.

Chewing on inedible things is a natural behavioral trait in puppies. However, this behavior can be quickly corrected by clearly establishing and consistently enforcing certain house rules from the outset. Instead of scolding your pet, it’s better to patiently explain what is and isn’t acceptable, using a system of restrictions and rewards for correct behavior.