If you’ve ever come home to find your couch gnawed to pieces and your puppy looking at you with a mix of innocence and mischief, you're not alone. It’s a rite of passage for many new puppy owners, though it can be incredibly frustrating. Here’s a look at why puppies chew on furniture, how to deal with the destruction, and how to prevent it from happening again.
Why Do Puppies Chew on Furniture?
Puppies, like babies, explore their world with their mouths. Chewing helps them relieve teething discomfort and keeps their teeth healthy as they grow. In addition to that, chewing is a way for puppies to alleviate boredom, anxiety, or excess energy. Your couch, being a soft, accessible, and sometimes even fun-to-destroy object, is an ideal target.
The Emotional Rollercoaster
The initial reaction to seeing your beloved couch in tatters can range from shock to rage. It’s natural to feel upset, but it’s also important to remember that puppies don’t have the maturity or control to understand that they’ve just wrecked your favorite piece of furniture. It’s not personal. They’re simply acting on instinct, curiosity, or boredom.
How to Handle It
-
Stay Calm
As tough as it may be, try not to scold your puppy after the fact. Puppies live in the moment, so yelling at them when you find the damage won’t help them connect the dots. Instead, focus on addressing the behavior going forward. -
Redirect the Chewing
Offer your puppy an appropriate chew toy when they start to chew on the couch. If you catch them in the act, gently move them away and give them the toy. Consistently redirecting them will help them learn the difference between what’s okay to chew on and what’s not. -
Create a Chew-Friendly Environment
Consider puppy-proofing your home by providing plenty of toys, bones, and treats to satisfy your puppy’s need to chew. You can also use bitter sprays on your furniture to deter them. -
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired puppy is less likely to engage in destructive chewing. Ensure your puppy is getting enough exercise through walks, play, and mental stimulation like training sessions. A busy mind is a happy mind! -
Proper Crate Training
Crate training can also help prevent unwanted chewing when you’re not around to supervise. A crate can offer your puppy a safe, chew-free space when you’re away.
How to Prevent It in the Future
-
Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
Choose toys that are durable and engaging. Some puppies love interactive toys that they can chew on for hours, while others might prefer rubber or nylon-based toys. -
Establish Boundaries
You can help your puppy learn which areas are off-limits by using pet gates or furniture covers. Over time, your puppy will start to recognize boundaries in your home. -
Be Patient and Consistent
Training your puppy to avoid chewing on your furniture is a process. It requires patience, consistency, and understanding that they are still learning how to be part of your world.
The Bright Side
While it may seem like an annoying setback, chewing is a temporary phase in your puppy’s life. As your puppy matures, they will outgrow the habit. In the meantime, it’s an opportunity to bond with them, teaching them what is appropriate and helping them develop positive habits that will last a lifetime.
So, while your couch may never be quite the same again, take comfort in the knowledge that your puppy is just going through one of the many stages of growth that every dog owner experiences. Soon enough, the only thing they’ll be chewing is their favorite toy.