How to Stop Dog From Chewing Shoes

Dogs have a natural instinct to chew, and unfortunately, your favorite shoes may become their target. Chewing shoes not only ruins your footwear, but it can also be dangerous for your furry friend if they swallow any small pieces. To prevent this behavior, here are some effective tips to stop your dog from chewing shoes.

1. Provide appropriate chew toys: Dogs need to satisfy their chewing instinct, so offer them a variety of dog-friendly chew toys. Opt for toys made of durable materials like rubber or nylon that are specifically designed for chewing.

2. Keep shoes out of reach: As prevention is key, it’s essential to store your shoes in a safe place where your dog cannot access them. Use closed closets or shoe cabinets to keep your footwear secure.

3. Use deterrents: Apply a bitter-tasting spray or a non-toxic deterrent on your shoes. The unpleasant taste will discourage your dog from chewing on them. However, test the product on a small area of the shoe first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage.

4. Provide mental and physical stimulation: Boredom is often a leading cause of destructive behavior in dogs. Engage your dog in regular exercise and provide mental stimulation through interactive toys, puzzles, or training sessions. A tired and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to resort to chewing shoes.

5. Supervise and redirect: When you’re at home, keep an eye on your dog to prevent them from accessing your shoes. If you catch them in the act, calmly redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy and praise them when they chew on it instead.

6. Properly crate train: If your dog tends to chew shoes when left alone, consider crate training. A crate provides a safe and confined space for your dog, preventing access to your shoes and reducing the likelihood of destructive behavior.

7. Seek professional help: If your dog’s chewing behavior persists despite your efforts, consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess your dog’s specific needs and provide tailored advice and training techniques to address the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why do dogs chew shoes?
Dogs chew shoes due to their natural instinct to explore and relieve teething discomfort. It can also be a sign of boredom, anxiety, or lack of proper chew toys.

2. Is it normal for puppies to chew shoes?
Yes, puppies explore the world through their mouths, and chewing is a normal part of their development. However, it’s important to redirect their chewing to appropriate toys.

3. Can I punish my dog for chewing shoes?
No, punishing your dog after the fact will not effectively address the issue. Instead, focus on prevention, redirection, and providing appropriate chew toys.

4. Will bitter apple spray harm my shoes?
Bitter apple spray is generally safe for shoes, but it’s recommended to test it on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage.

5. How long does it take to stop a dog from chewing shoes?
The time it takes to stop this behavior varies depending on the dog and consistency of training. With patience and consistency, most dogs can be successfully trained within a few weeks.

6. Should I give my dog old shoes to chew on?
No, giving your dog old shoes to chew on can create confusion and may encourage them to chew on any shoe they find. Stick to providing appropriate chew toys only.

7. Can separation anxiety cause shoe chewing?
Yes, dogs with separation anxiety may resort to destructive behaviors such as shoe chewing. Addressing the underlying anxiety through training and gradual desensitization can help alleviate this behavior.