Stopping Your Dog from Chewing Their Bed

To stop your dog from chewing their bed, it is essential to address the underlying causes such as boredom, anxiety, or physical discomfort. Implementing deterrents and effective management strategies are also crucial steps. This approach helps curb destructive chewing habits and promotes a healthier environment for your pet.

Chewing is often a symptom of an underlying issue, not merely a bad habit. Consistency is paramount for any deterrent or training method to be effective. Always provide appropriate and safe alternatives for your dog to chew on.

Why Dogs Chew Beds: Common Reasons

Dogs chew on various items, including their beds, for a multitude of reasons. Understanding these motivations is the first step toward effective intervention.

Boredom and Lack of Mental Stimulation

A common reason for destructive chewing is boredom. Dogs, especially those with high energy levels, require significant physical exercise and mental engagement. Without adequate stimulation, they may resort to chewing their bed as a way to entertain themselves. According to Roger Molenaar, author of "What Can I Spray on Dog Bed to Stop Chewing?", dogs are "naturally curious creatures" and their "constant need to explore and satisfy their curiosity often leads to them engaging in destructive behaviors, such as chewing."

Anxiety (Separation Anxiety, General Stress)

Anxiety is another significant factor. Dogs suffering from separation anxiety may chew their bed when left alone as a coping mechanism. General stress, perhaps due to changes in routine, new environments, or loud noises, can also manifest as destructive chewing. This behavior provides a release for their nervous energy.

Teething in Puppies

For puppies, chewing is a normal and necessary part of development. As their adult teeth emerge, puppies experience discomfort and a strong urge to chew to relieve sore gums. Their bed often becomes an easy target for this natural instinct.

Discomfort from the Bed Itself

Sometimes, the bed itself might be the problem. If a dog's bed is too hot, too cold, or made of an uncomfortable material, they might chew it in an attempt to make it more comfortable or to express their displeasure. Ensuring the bed's location and material are suitable for your dog's needs is important.

Attention Seeking

Some dogs learn that chewing their bed garners attention from their owners, even if it's negative attention. If an owner consistently reacts to bed chewing, the dog may repeat the behavior to get a response, reinforcing the unwanted habit.

Instinctual Behavior and Exploration

Chewing is an instinctual behavior for dogs. It's how they explore their world, strengthen their jaws, and keep their teeth clean. When appropriate outlets for this natural instinct are not provided, they may turn to household items, including their beds.

Nutritional Deficiencies (Rare)

While rare, nutritional deficiencies can sometimes contribute to unusual chewing behaviors. If a dog is not getting all the necessary nutrients from their diet, they might try to ingest non-food items. This is typically accompanied by other symptoms and should be investigated by a veterinarian.

Medical Issues

Underlying medical issues can also trigger sudden or excessive chewing. Pain, gastrointestinal upset, or other health problems can cause a dog to chew compulsively. If the chewing behavior starts suddenly or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, a veterinary check-up is essential.

Stopping Bed Chewing: Step-by-Step Guide

Addressing bed chewing requires a systematic approach that tackles both the symptoms and the root causes. Consistency and patience are key to success.

Step 1: Rule Out Medical Issues

Before implementing any behavioral interventions, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian. If your dog's chewing behavior is sudden, excessive, or accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or a change in appetite, a medical cause could be at play. A vet can perform a thorough examination to rule out pain, dental problems, gastrointestinal upset, or other health issues that might be contributing to the chewing.

Step 2: Increase Exercise & Mental Stimulation

Many chewing problems stem from a lack of physical and mental engagement. Increasing your dog's activity levels can significantly reduce destructive behaviors.

• Longer Walks and Playtime: Extend daily walks, incorporate games of fetch, or visit a dog park where your dog can run and socialize. High-energy breeds often require more than just a short stroll around the block.
• Puzzle Toys and Snuffle Mats: These tools provide mental stimulation by making your dog work for their food or treats. Puzzle toys challenge their problem-solving skills, while snuffle mats encourage natural foraging behaviors.
• Training Sessions: Even short, consistent training sessions can provide mental exercise. Teaching new commands or practicing existing ones can tire a dog out mentally.

Step 3: Provide Appropriate Chew Alternatives

Redirecting your dog's chewing instinct to appropriate items is fundamental. They need appealing alternatives that are safe and durable.

• Durable Chew Toys: Invest in high-quality, durable chew toys designed for strong chewers. Brands like Kong, Nylabone, and Benebone offer a variety of shapes and textures. Ensure the toys are appropriately sized for your dog to prevent choking hazards.
• Edible Chews: Items like bully sticks, dental chews, or natural bones can be excellent alternatives. However, these should always be given under supervision to prevent choking or ingestion of large pieces.

Step 4: Use Deterrents (Taste/Smell)

Deterrent sprays can make your dog's bed unappealing to chew. These work by applying an unpleasant taste or smell that dogs naturally avoid.

• Commercially Available "No-Chew" Sprays: Many pet stores offer sprays labeled "anti-chew" or "no chew." These typically contain bitter agents that are safe for pets but taste awful.
• Homemade Options: According to Source 1, homemade deterrents can be made using diluted bitter apple, lemon juice, or vinegar. It is crucial to ensure these are safe for your specific dog and will not damage the bed material. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first.
• Consistent Application: For deterrents to be effective, they must be applied consistently. Do not expect results after just one application. Reapply as needed, especially after cleaning the bed.

Step 5: Manage the Environment

Environmental management is a proactive strategy to prevent chewing before it starts.

• Supervise Your Dog: Whenever your dog is near their bed, especially if they have a history of chewing it, supervise them closely. This allows you to intervene immediately if they start to chew.
• Remove the Bed When Unsupervised: If chewing is persistent and you cannot supervise your dog, remove the bed entirely when you are not present. This eliminates the opportunity for destructive behavior.
• Consider a More Durable Bed: If your dog repeatedly destroys their bed, investing in a chew-resistant bed might be a long-term solution. Options include elevated cots with metal frames or beds made from ballistic nylon.
• Ensure Bed Comfort: Check that the bed's location is comfortable. Ensure it's not too hot or cold, and that it's in a quiet, safe space where your dog feels secure.

Step 6: Address Anxiety

If anxiety is the root cause of the chewing, specific interventions are necessary.

• Create a Safe, Calm Space: Provide a designated quiet area, such as a crate or a specific room, where your dog can retreat and feel secure. This space should be associated with positive experiences.
• Consider Calming Aids: Products like Adaptil diffusers, thunder shirts, or vet-approved calming supplements can help reduce anxiety. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements or aids.
• Behavior Modification Techniques: For separation anxiety, work with a professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist. They can guide you through desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques to help your dog cope with being alone.

Step 7: Redirection & Positive Reinforcement

This step involves actively teaching your dog what to chew instead of what not to chew.

• Redirect to an Appropriate Chew Toy: If you catch your dog chewing their bed, calmly interrupt the behavior. Immediately offer them an appropriate chew toy.
• Praise and Reward: When your dog takes the chew toy and begins to chew it, offer enthusiastic praise and a small treat. This positive reinforcement teaches them that chewing the toy is a rewarding behavior. Consistency in redirection and rewarding is vital for your dog to understand the desired behavior.

Tools & Products

Several products can assist in preventing your dog from chewing their bed, ranging from durable toys to specialized beds and calming aids.

• Durable Chew Toys: Essential for redirecting chewing instincts.
• Kong: Known for their rubber toys that can be stuffed with treats, providing long-lasting mental stimulation.
• Nylabone: Offers a variety of chew toys in different shapes, sizes, and flavors, designed for power chewers.
• Benebone: Made from durable nylon and infused with real flavors like bacon or peanut butter, making them highly appealing.
• Puzzle Feeders/Snuffle Mats: These tools engage your dog's mind and can help alleviate boredom.
• Puzzle Feeders: Require dogs to solve a puzzle to get their food or treats, slowing down eating and providing mental exercise.
• Snuffle Mats: Fabric mats with hidden compartments where treats can be placed, encouraging natural foraging behavior.
• Anti-Chew Sprays: Designed to deter chewing with an unpleasant taste.
• Bitter Apple Spray: A popular commercial option that leaves a bitter taste, discouraging dogs from chewing treated items.
• Chew-Resistant Dog Beds: For dogs that are persistent chewers, a more robust bed can be a good investment.
• Elevated Cots: Often feature sturdy metal or PVC frames and durable fabric (like mesh or ballistic nylon) that is difficult to tear.
• Ballistic Nylon Beds: Made from extremely tough, tightly woven fabric that is highly resistant to tearing and chewing.
• Calming Aids: Can help manage anxiety that contributes to chewing.
• Adaptil Diffusers: Release synthetic dog appeasing pheromones (DAP) that can help create a calming environment.
• Vet-Approved Supplements: Various supplements containing ingredients like L-theanine or tryptophan can help reduce anxiety. Always consult your veterinarian before using any supplements.

Risks & When to See a Vet

Ignoring a dog's bed chewing can lead to significant health risks. Knowing when to seek professional veterinary help is crucial.

Risks of Chewing

The act of chewing and potentially ingesting bed material poses several dangers to your dog:

• Ingestion of Bed Material Leading to Blockages: Dogs can swallow pieces of fabric, stuffing, or other bed components. These foreign objects can cause gastrointestinal blockages, which are serious and often require emergency surgery. Symptoms include vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, and abdominal pain.
• Choking Hazards: Smaller pieces of fabric or stuffing can become lodged in your dog's throat, leading to choking.
• Dental Damage: Aggressive chewing on unsuitable materials can lead to broken teeth, gum injuries, or other dental problems.
• Exposure to Harmful Substances: If the bed contains materials treated with chemicals or dyes, ingesting them could lead to toxicity.

When to See a Vet

It's important to recognize when a chewing problem warrants a visit to the veterinarian.

• Sudden Onset of Chewing Behavior: If your dog suddenly starts chewing their bed intensely, especially if it's a new behavior, it could indicate an underlying medical issue rather than just a behavioral problem.
• Chewing Accompanied by Other Symptoms: Seek veterinary attention immediately if chewing is paired with:
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Lethargy or unusual tiredness
• Loss of appetite or significant changes in eating habits
• Weight loss
• Changes in drinking or urination
• Excessive Drooling or Pawing at Mouth: These could be signs of dental pain, a foreign object lodged in the mouth, or nausea.
• Signs of Pain or Discomfort: If your dog appears to be in pain, limping, or showing unusual aggression or withdrawal, it's a red flag.
• Unsuccessful Behavioral Interventions: If you have diligently tried various behavioral interventions (increased exercise, appropriate chew toys, deterrents) for several weeks without success, a vet can help. They can rule out subtle medical causes or refer you to a certified veterinary behaviorist who specializes in complex behavioral issues.

Chew-Resistant Bed Examples

Choosing a chew-resistant bed can be a game-changer for dogs prone to destroying their bedding. These beds are designed with durable materials and construction to withstand rigorous chewing.

• Elevated Dog Cots: These beds typically feature a sturdy frame (often aluminum or steel) and a suspended, breathable fabric surface. The fabric is usually a heavy-duty mesh or ballistic nylon, which is difficult for dogs to get a grip on and tear. The elevated design also keeps the bed off the ground, preventing access to corners or edges that might be tempting to chew.