How to Stop Your Dog Chewing Furniture
Is your pup taking a bite out of your furniture? You’re not alone — many Kiwi pet parents face this frustrating (and expensive!) habit. The good news is, with a little patience and the right tools, you can teach your dog to chew more wisely. Whether they’re teething, bored, or just love sinking their teeth into your lounge suite, we’ve rounded up expert-backed ways to help stop your dog chewing furniture — for good.
Why Dogs Chew Furniture In The First Place
Understanding why your dog is chewing is the first step in putting a stop to it. Common reasons include:
- Teething: Puppies, especially under six months, chew to soothe sore gums.
- Exploration: Dogs explore the world with their mouths, especially when they’re young.
- Boredom or anxiety: Lack of stimulation or emotional stress can lead to destructive chewing.
- Lack of suitable chew toys: No alternative chew options? That armchair leg suddenly looks tempting!
If your dog is left alone for long periods, separation anxiety might also be contributing. Products from our calming essentials collection may help reduce stress-related behaviour.
Swap Furniture For Dog-Safe Chew Toys
One of the simplest and most effective solutions is to redirect your pup’s chewing towards something more appropriate. High-quality chew toys for dogs can satisfy your dog’s need to gnaw while saving your sofa from slobber and splinters. Look for long-lasting, tough options from trusted brands like KONG, Benebone, and Nylabone.
Change things up often to keep your dog interested. Rotating their toys makes them feel new and exciting again, and helps curb boredom-related chewing.
Use Training And Positive Reinforcement
At Petdirect, we believe in kind, reward-based training that’s easy for pet parents and effective for pups. When you catch your dog chewing an off-limits item, calmly redirect them to a toy. When they choose the toy instead, offer praise and maybe a training treat from our training and reward treats range.
Consistency is key. If your dog gets mixed signals — for example, they’re allowed to chew on one old shoe but not another — they won’t learn what’s actually off-limits.
Keep Your Dog Mentally And Physically Stimulated
A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Chewing can often be a sign your pooch just has too much puppy energy. Keep their minds and bodies active with:
- Daily walks and exercise suited to their breed
- Fun, engaging interactive toys or puzzle feeders
- Smart training aids to build mental skills
Interactive toys are especially helpful when you’re out or working from home, giving your pup something mentally enriching to focus on besides your coffee table.
Create A Chew-Friendly Space
Set your dog up for success by giving them a safe, inviting area where everything is chew-approved. Consider:
- A cosy dog bed
- Plenty of fun chew toys and textures
- Pet-safe deterrent sprays for furniture legs
You can also crate train your dog, which can help discourage chewing when you’re not around to supervise, especially during the puppy stage.
Check For Underlying Behavioural Or Health Concerns
If your dog’s chewing seems sudden, obsessive, or continues despite your best efforts, it’s worth speaking with a qualified New Zealand vet or animal behaviourist. In rare cases, chewing can be linked to dental discomfort or digestion issues — for example, some dogs chew to ease an upset stomach. Explore our range of digestive health supplements and dental care essentials to support overall wellbeing.
Chewing Relief Starts With Us
At Petdirect, we know that your furniture isn’t just functional — it’s where memories are made and pets snuggle up. That’s why we stock New Zealand’s widest range of chewy distractions and calming aids that give pups a safer outlet for their instincts. Because when you shop with us, you’re not just getting top-rated products — you’re teaming up with experts who truly Get Pet.
Explore top-rated picks loved by fellow dog parents or unlock exclusive deals through our Pet Perks programme when you treat your pup (and save your slippers). Let’s chew smarter together!