Step 1: Identify the “Why”
Every chewing case has a root cause. Maybe your dog naps all day while you work, then explodes with energy, or your cat’s new diet makes them crave texture. Match the solution to the motivation.
Boredom / under-stimulation
Increase mental games (snuffle mats, scent work) and add two short training sessions daily.
Teething discomfort
Freeze damp washcloths, use puppy-safe rubber chews, and supervise to prevent swallowing pieces.
Anxiety outlet
Pair chew time with calming music, provide safe hideouts, and practice relaxation cues.
Nutritional gaps
Offer appropriate chewable food (bully sticks, chicken feet) under supervision and review diet with your vet.
Step 2: Manage the Environment
- Use baby gates or exercise pens to limit access to furniture when you can’t supervise.
- Hide cords in cable covers or PVC pipe; spray bitter apple deterrent as a backup.
- Provide elevated resting spots for cats so they can watch activity without feeling bored.
- Rotate toys daily so “legal” chewing stays novel.
Step 3: Build a Chew Rotation
Keep a weekly calendar so you never run out of ideas. Rotation prevents your pet from overheating on one texture.
- Day 1: Frozen Kong stuffed with canned food or pumpkin
- Day 2: Rubber toy smeared with xylitol-free peanut butter and frozen
- Day 3: Braided bully stick (remove when nub is small)
- Day 4: Snuffle box filled with toilet paper rolls and scatter kibble
- Day 5: Homemade rope toy (braided fleece) for tug + supervised chewing
Step 4: Teach “Trade and Switch”
- Offer a high-value treat as you approach. When your pet drops the item, mark (“yes!”) and feed.
- Hand back a legal chew so they learn trading doesn’t end the fun.
- Practice daily with low-value objects before asking for shoes or furniture legs.
Important: Punishing or yelling can increase anxiety chewing. Instead, redirect with a cheerful cue (“take this!”) and remove tempting items when you can’t supervise.
Step 5: Layer in Mental Workouts
Two 10-minute enrichment sessions per day often reduce destructive chewing more than an extra walk. Use cardboard shredding boxes, scatter feeding in grass, or DIY snuffle towels to satisfy nose-driven species needs.
Step 6: Know When to Get Help
If chewing escalates after life changes (new baby, move, loss of routine) or your pet injures themselves, consult your veterinarian or a certified trainer. Anxiety medication, pheromone diffusers, or diet adjustments may be necessary alongside training.