Key Takeaways
- Chewing is natural, but context matters – Dogs chew instinctively for teething, exploration, and stress relief. However, when this behaviour turns destructive, it signals deeper issues.
- Understanding the root cause is essential – Boredom, anxiety, or lack of training are the most common reasons for destructive chewing in Australian homes.
- Positive reinforcement is more effective than punishment – Redirecting dogs toward safe chew alternatives while rewarding good behaviour builds lasting results.
- Environmental management helps prevent problems – Dog-proofing homes, rotating toys, and providing mental stimulation reduce chewing temptations.
- Australian context matters – Lifestyle factors such as long work hours, smaller backyards, and climate challenges require tailored solutions for pet owners in Australia.
- Support products make a difference – Durable chew toys, puzzle feeders, and calming aids available at PetCareShed can assist with training and enrichment.
- Professional help may be needed – Severe cases tied to separation anxiety, medical issues, or behavioural disorders may require guidance from vets or trainers.
Introduction
If you have ever come home to find your dog has chewed through a shoe, ripped apart a cushion, or gnawed on the corner of your furniture, you are not alone. Destructive chewing is one of the most common behavioural complaints among Australian dog owners. While it can be frustrating and costly, chewing is not always a sign of bad behaviour—in fact, it is a natural canine instinct that can become problematic when left unmanaged.
According to the Australian Veterinary Association, chewing is especially common in young dogs under 18 months, but many adult dogs continue the habit when they are anxious, bored, or under-stimulated. In some cases, destructive chewing can cause not only property damage but also health risks, such as intestinal blockages if dogs swallow inappropriate objects.
“Chewing is an essential behaviour for dogs, but when it becomes destructive, it’s usually a symptom of unmet needs—whether physical, emotional, or environmental.” — Dr. Kate Mornement, Australian animal behaviourist
For pet owners, understanding why dogs chew destructively is the first step toward solving the problem. By addressing the underlying causes—whether it’s teething, anxiety, boredom, or simple lack of guidance—you can train your dog to chew safely, protect your belongings, and improve your pet’s overall wellbeing.
In this article, we’ll explore the behavioural causes of destructive chewing and provide step-by-step training fixes tailored to Australian homes. We will also share expert insights, practical strategies, and product recommendations that can help transform your dog’s chewing habit from destructive to healthy.
Understanding Why Dogs Chew
To solve the issue of destructive chewing, it’s important to first understand why dogs chew in the first place. Chewing is not simply a “naughty” behaviour—it’s an instinctive and deeply ingrained part of canine biology and development. When owners misinterpret it as mischief, they often respond with punishment rather than solutions, which rarely works in the long run.
Evolutionary Perspective
Dogs are descendants of wolves, and chewing has always played an important role in survival. Wild canines chew bones not only to access nutrients like marrow but also to strengthen their jaws and keep their teeth clean. This evolutionary behaviour persists in domestic dogs, even though their diet no longer requires bone-crushing.
Chewing provides:
- Jaw and dental health benefits – Chewing helps scrape away plaque and tartar.
- Mental stimulation – The repetitive act of chewing soothes dogs, much like humans biting their nails or chewing gum.
- Stress relief – Chewing triggers endorphin release, helping calm anxious dogs.
Developmental Stages of Chewing
Chewing habits vary depending on the dog’s age and life stage.
- Puppies (up to 6 months) – Teething is the main driver. As their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth come in, puppies chew to relieve discomfort. Without guidance, they may target shoes, furniture, or cords.
- Adolescent Dogs (6–18 months) – Chewing remains strong as young dogs explore their world and test boundaries. This stage is where destructive chewing often peaks if training and enrichment are lacking.
- Adult Dogs – Chewing shifts from exploration to habit or emotional release. Adult dogs chew when bored, anxious, or under-stimulated.
- Senior Dogs – Chewing may resurface due to cognitive decline, frustration, or dental discomfort. Some older dogs also chew more as a coping mechanism for reduced physical activity.
Emotional Triggers Behind Chewing
While chewing can be natural, destructive chewing often has an emotional root cause.
- Separation Anxiety – Dogs left alone for long hours may chew to cope with stress.
- Frustration or Boredom – Energetic breeds without enough exercise or stimulation look for an outlet.
- Attention-Seeking – Some dogs learn that chewing items like shoes gets a big reaction from their owner, reinforcing the habit.
“Dogs rarely chew destructively out of spite. It’s usually an outlet for unmet needs.” — Dr. Ian Dunbar, renowned veterinary behaviourist
Understanding these foundations is crucial before jumping into training solutions. Instead of seeing destructive chewing as defiance, recognising it as communication opens the door to more effective fixes.
Common Behavioural Causes of Destructive Chewing
Now that we’ve looked at the instinctive and developmental reasons dogs chew, it’s time to explore the behavioural causes that make chewing turn destructive. These are the real-world triggers that most Australian pet owners encounter at home.
Boredom and Lack of Stimulation
Dogs are intelligent, active animals who need both physical exercise and mental enrichment. When these needs aren’t met, chewing often becomes their outlet. High-energy breeds such as Border Collies, Kelpies, and working-line Shepherds are especially prone to chewing when under-stimulated.
- Example: A working breed left alone in a small suburban backyard for 8–10 hours may resort to chewing on outdoor furniture, garden hoses, or even timber decking.
- Expert Insight: A study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science found that dogs provided with enrichment toys chewed less destructively than those without structured activities.
Separation Anxiety
One of the most common reasons behind destructive chewing is separation anxiety. Dogs are highly social animals, and being left alone can cause significant stress. Chewing, scratching, or even self-injury can be coping mechanisms.
Signs your dog’s chewing is linked to separation anxiety:
- Chewing begins soon after you leave the house.
- Destruction is focused on exit points like doors or windows.
- Other symptoms such as whining, barking, pacing, or toileting indoors occur.
“Separation-related chewing isn’t just about boredom—it’s a panic response. These dogs need both behavioural support and owner understanding.” — Dr. Jo Righetti, Australian pet behaviour consultant
Improper Training or Reinforcement
Sometimes, destructive chewing persists because it has been unintentionally reinforced. For example:
- A puppy chews a shoe, and the owner laughs instead of correcting the behaviour.
- A dog chews furniture, and the owner chases them around, giving the dog attention (which is rewarding in itself).
Consistency is key. If some family members allow chewing while others punish it, the dog becomes confused and continues the behaviour.
Nutritional Deficiencies
While less common, nutritional factors can also play a role. Dogs with dietary deficiencies may chew on inappropriate objects in an attempt to satisfy unmet needs. For example:
- Dogs lacking calcium may chew rocks, plaster, or concrete.
- Dogs with insufficient protein sometimes target fabrics or wood.
Australian owners should ensure they are feeding a complete and balanced diet, following the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) or FEDIAF guidelines. Consulting with a vet is important if chewing seems linked to unusual cravings.
Stress and Environmental Changes
Life changes—such as moving house, introducing a new baby, or loud construction nearby—can all trigger stress-related chewing. Dogs often use their mouths to self-soothe, much like humans might fidget or bite their nails.
Environmental and Australian Context
Understanding destructive chewing also requires looking at the unique conditions of Australian households and lifestyles. From long work hours to climate extremes, the local context shapes how and why dogs may resort to chewing.
Aussie Lifestyle Factors
Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, with nearly 69% of households owning a pet, according to Animal Medicines Australia. While this shows our love for animals, it also highlights a challenge: many owners juggle full-time jobs and long commutes.
- Dogs left home alone for extended hours often chew as a way to pass time or relieve stress.
- Apartment living and smaller suburban blocks mean fewer opportunities for exercise and outdoor play.
- Working breeds such as Kelpies, Cattle Dogs, and Border Collies are popular pets but require far more stimulation than most city homes can provide.
Climate Considerations
Australia’s climate brings its own set of issues. During extreme summer heat, dogs may be confined indoors for long periods, increasing the risk of boredom chewing. Conversely, wet winters in southern states may limit outdoor activity, leaving dogs restless.
Owners must adapt enrichment strategies to the climate, ensuring dogs remain engaged even when outdoor activity is restricted. Cooling chew toys, frozen treats, and indoor puzzle feeders are particularly useful during hot spells.
Household Hazards in Australian Homes
When dogs chew destructively, they don’t always choose safe targets. Common hazards in Aussie households include:
- Electrical cords – a significant danger, especially for puppies.
- Timber decking and furniture – popular outdoor materials that attract chewers.
- Shoes and thongs – with Australia’s casual lifestyle, these are often left accessible.
- Toxic plants – such as oleander, sago palm, and azaleas, which can be deadly if chewed.
Urban vs. Rural Differences
The chewing problem manifests differently depending on environment:
- Urban/suburban homes – Smaller spaces and less time outdoors increase boredom chewing.
- Rural properties – Dogs may chew on farm equipment, fencing, or water pipes, sometimes out of habit, other times from sheer energy surplus.
“Chewing issues are often a mismatch between the dog’s needs and the environment the owner provides. Australian homes, with their varied lifestyles and climates, require tailored strategies.” — Dr. Cam Day, veterinary behaviourist
Training Fixes for Destructive Chewing
Addressing destructive chewing requires a combination of understanding, patience, and practical training strategies. The goal isn’t to eliminate chewing altogether—since it’s a natural canine behaviour—but to redirect it towards safe and appropriate outlets.
Positive Reinforcement Methods
Punishing a dog for chewing rarely works and often increases anxiety, leading to even more destructive behaviour. Instead, positive reinforcement builds lasting results.
- Catch good behaviour early – Praise and reward your dog when they chew on toys instead of furniture.
- Use treats strategically – Pair safe chew toys with food rewards to make them more appealing.
- Consistency is key – Everyone in the household must follow the same approach.
“Positive reinforcement isn’t about bribery—it’s about teaching your dog that making the right choice is rewarding.” — Delta Society Australia
Providing Alternatives
Dogs will chew—it’s about giving them the right things to chew. Providing a variety of textures and difficulty levels helps keep them engaged.
- Chew toys – Rubber toys, nylon bones, and rope toys.
- Food-dispensing toys – Kongs stuffed with frozen treats or peanut butter.
- Puzzle feeders – Encourage mental stimulation while satisfying chewing urges.
Product Tip (PetCareShed): Durable rubber chew toys and interactive feeders are excellent for Aussie homes, especially for dogs left alone during work hours.
Managing the Environment
Until your dog is fully trained, it’s important to manage their environment to reduce opportunities for destructive chewing.
- Dog-proof your home – Keep shoes, remote controls, and cords out of reach.
- Use barriers – Baby gates or playpens can limit access to high-risk areas.
- Crate training (when done humanely) – Crates can provide a safe space, but they must never be used as punishment.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired dog is far less likely to chew destructively. Exercise not only burns energy but also reduces stress, a major chewing trigger.
- Physical exercise – Daily walks, fetch games, or agility training.
- Mental enrichment – Hide-and-seek games, trick training, or scent work.
- Adapt to Aussie backyards – Even smaller spaces can be transformed with interactive play sessions.
Quick Tips for Busy Owners:
- Rotate chew toys every few days to keep them interesting.
- Freeze carrots or dog-safe broth cubes for summer chewing relief.
- Use short, frequent training sessions (5–10 minutes) throughout the day.
Step-by-Step Training Plan
Training a dog out of destructive chewing doesn’t happen overnight—it requires a structured, consistent approach. Below is a practical step-by-step plan tailored for Australian households.
1. Identify the Triggers
Observe when and where chewing occurs.
- Does it happen only when the dog is left alone?
- Is it focused on certain objects like shoes or cords?
- Does it happen after long periods without exercise?
Keeping a behaviour diary for a week can help pinpoint causes.
2. Remove Access to Problem Items
Prevention is the first step. If your dog repeatedly chews shoes, keep them in a closed cupboard. If cords are the target, cover them with protective tubing.
Think of this as setting your dog up for success—eliminating temptation makes training easier.
3. Introduce Designated Chew Items
Provide a variety of safe chew options. Rotate them often to maintain novelty. Encourage chewing by:
- Stuffing toys with frozen food.
- Sprinkling a little low-sodium stock over rubber toys.
- Choosing chews that match your dog’s chewing strength.
4. Reward Desired Behaviour
The moment your dog chews something appropriate, praise them warmly and offer a treat. The faster the reward follows the action, the stronger the learning.
Example:
- Dog picks up a rope toy → Owner immediately says “Good chew!” and gives a treat.
5. Redirect Mistakes Calmly
When your dog chews something inappropriate, avoid yelling or punishing. Instead:
- Gently remove the item.
- Replace it with an approved chew toy.
- Praise when they switch.
6. Increase Exercise and Enrichment
Chewing is often the symptom of pent-up energy. Add structured activities:
- Morning and evening walks.
- Scent games using hidden treats around the house.
- Interactive play sessions such as tug or fetch.
7. Build Independence Gradually
For dogs with separation anxiety:
- Practice leaving the dog alone for short periods, gradually increasing duration.
- Provide puzzle feeders or long-lasting chews before leaving.
- Create a “safe zone” such as a crate or cosy bed where the dog feels secure.
8. Monitor Progress and Adjust
Every dog learns at a different pace. If chewing continues despite training, consult a professional trainer or veterinarian to rule out medical causes.
Training Timeline (General Guide):
- 1–2 weeks: Noticeable reduction in chewing if redirection is consistent.
- 3–6 weeks: Strong preference for designated chew items established.
- 2–3 months: Majority of destructive chewing eliminated with ongoing reinforcement.
When to Seek Professional Help
While most cases of destructive chewing can be managed with consistent training and environmental adjustments, there are times when professional intervention is necessary. Knowing when to call in expert help can save you frustration and protect your dog’s wellbeing.
Signs It’s Time to Consult a Professional
- Persistent chewing despite training efforts – If weeks of consistent redirection and enrichment haven’t made a difference.
- Chewing linked to severe anxiety – Dogs that panic, drool excessively, pace, or harm themselves when left alone may be suffering from separation anxiety.
- Health-related chewing – If your dog chews rocks, dirt, or non-food objects (a condition known as pica), it may indicate nutritional deficiencies or underlying medical conditions.
- Aggressive behaviour with chewing items – If your dog guards objects or becomes aggressive when you try to remove inappropriate items, this needs professional handling.
Role of Vets and Behaviourists in Australia
- Veterinarians – Can rule out medical causes such as dental pain, gastrointestinal issues, or deficiencies. They may also prescribe calming aids or refer you to a behaviourist.
- Certified Dog Trainers – Provide structured training programs and personalised strategies to manage chewing. Look for trainers accredited by the Delta Society Australia or the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT Australia).
- Veterinary Behaviourists – Specialists who combine veterinary medicine with behaviour expertise. They can develop comprehensive treatment plans, especially for anxiety-driven cases.
“If a dog’s chewing escalates into a welfare issue—causing self-injury, persistent anxiety, or household conflict—it’s no longer just a training matter. Professional support becomes essential.” — Dr. Cam Day, veterinary behaviourist
Options for Australian Pet Owners
- Puppy Preschool Programs – Offered by many vets across Australia, these early training classes can help prevent destructive chewing from becoming a long-term issue.
- One-on-One Behaviour Consultations – Useful for severe cases where personalised home strategies are needed.
- Telehealth Behavioural Services – Increasingly available for remote areas, giving rural owners access to expert advice.
Seeking professional guidance is not a sign of failure—it’s a responsible step to ensure your dog’s mental and physical health while protecting your home.
Related Product Recommendations
While training and behaviour management are at the heart of solving destructive chewing, the right products can make the process smoother and more effective. Providing safe and stimulating alternatives not only protects your belongings but also supports your dog’s mental and physical health.
Durable Chew Toys for Strong Chewers
Some dogs, especially larger breeds or strong-jawed chewers like Staffies, Labradors, and Kelpies, can destroy ordinary toys within minutes. Investing in tough, long-lasting toys reduces frustration and ensures safety.
- Rubber chew toys – Designed to withstand heavy chewing.
- Nylon bones – Durable and available in different flavours to keep interest high.
- Rope toys – Good for moderate chewers and useful for tug games.
PetCareShed Tip: Look for toys that can be frozen during hot Aussie summers to provide cooling relief and extra stimulation.
Food Puzzle Toys and Slow Feeders
Interactive feeding tools give dogs a “job” to do, which channels their chewing energy into problem-solving.
- Kong-style toys – Can be filled with peanut butter, yoghurt, or frozen treats.
- Slow feeders – Help extend mealtimes and reduce gulping.
- Puzzle boards – Encourage sniffing, pawing, and chewing in a controlled way.
Calming Products for Anxious Chewers
For dogs whose chewing stems from anxiety, calming products can be beneficial alongside training.
- Calming sprays and diffusers – Mimic natural pheromones to help reduce stress.
- Comfort beds – Raised or donut-shaped beds provide a sense of security.
- Chewable calming supplements – Contain natural ingredients like chamomile or tryptophan.
Safe Natural Chews
Sometimes, giving dogs an edible option is the best way to redirect chewing. Natural chews provide enrichment while satisfying their chewing urge.
- Kangaroo tendons – A popular Australian chew option, low in fat and long-lasting.
- Beef bully sticks – Safe, digestible, and high in protein.
- Dried fish skins – Offer both taste and texture.
Always supervise your dog when offering edible chews to prevent choking or swallowing large pieces.
Training Aids
- Bitter sprays – Can be applied to furniture or shoes to discourage chewing.
- Clickers and treat pouches – Useful for reinforcing good chewing behaviour during training.
PetCareShed Recommendation: Combining durable toys with puzzle feeders and calming aids gives the best chance of reducing destructive chewing in Aussie homes.
Preventing Future Problems
Once you’ve managed destructive chewing, the next step is ensuring it doesn’t return. Prevention is all about consistency, preparation, and maintaining your dog’s physical and emotional wellbeing.
Start Training Early
The best way to stop chewing from becoming a lifelong problem is to address it during puppyhood.
- Introduce safe chew items from the first week at home.
- Redirect inappropriate chewing immediately and consistently.
- Enrol in puppy preschool to reinforce positive behaviours.
“Puppies learn lifelong habits between 8 and 16 weeks of age. This is the prime time to establish appropriate chewing behaviours.” — Australian Veterinary Association
Consistency Across the Household
Dogs need clear rules. If one person allows them to chew on old shoes while another scolds them, confusion leads to ongoing issues.
- Establish a family agreement on what is acceptable.
- Ensure all members reward the same behaviours.
- Use consistent verbal cues such as “Good chew” or “Leave it.”
Rotate Toys to Prevent Boredom
Dogs get bored with the same toys over time.
- Rotate 3–4 different toys every few days.
- Introduce new textures (rubber, rope, nylon, fabric).
- Use treat-stuffed toys for extra motivation.
Provide Adequate Exercise and Mental Enrichment
Prevention relies heavily on keeping your dog occupied.
- Daily walks – Adjust duration to breed and age.
- Interactive play – Fetch, tug, and agility games.
- Mental challenges – Hide treats, teach new tricks, or use puzzle feeders.
Regular Health Check-Ups
Sometimes chewing is linked to pain or discomfort. Dental disease, gum irritation, or even gastrointestinal problems can drive dogs to chew excessively.
- Schedule annual vet check-ups.
- Monitor dental health, especially in older dogs.
- Ask your vet about dietary adjustments if chewing seems unusual.
Safe Environments Indoors and Outdoors
- Puppy-proof your home by removing temptations.
- Provide safe chew zones in both indoor and outdoor areas.
- Offer shaded, comfortable spaces during hot summers to prevent restless chewing indoors.
PetCareShed Prevention Tip: Investing in a combination of chew toys, puzzle feeders, and rotating enrichment items is more cost-effective than replacing furniture or household items repeatedly.
Case Studies and Expert Insights
Understanding destructive chewing becomes clearer when we look at real-life experiences from Australian pet owners and expert commentary. These examples show how the right approach can turn frustrating behaviour into manageable habits.
Case Study 1: Border Collie in a Suburban Home
Problem: A two-year-old Border Collie named Max was left alone for up to 10 hours a day while his owners worked. He chewed through outdoor furniture, garden hoses, and even wooden decking.
Solution: His owners introduced daily morning walks, interactive feeders, and frozen chew toys. They also arranged for a neighbour to visit midday for a short play session.
Outcome: Within four weeks, destructive chewing decreased significantly. Max now spends most of his alone time working on puzzle feeders or resting after exercise.
Case Study 2: Labrador Puppy with Separation Anxiety
Problem: Bella, a six-month-old Labrador, destroyed shoes, skirting boards, and cushions whenever her owner left for work. The chewing was accompanied by whining and pacing.
Solution: A veterinary behaviourist diagnosed separation anxiety. The treatment plan included gradual desensitisation training, calming pheromone diffusers, and stuffed Kong toys to keep her occupied when alone.
Outcome: After three months, Bella’s anxiety reduced, and destructive chewing stopped. Her owner now rotates enrichment toys daily and schedules short training sessions before leaving the house.
Case Study 3: Senior Staffy with Dental Pain
Problem: Rocky, a ten-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier, suddenly started chewing aggressively on wooden chair legs after years without destructive habits.
Solution: A vet check revealed dental disease causing discomfort. After treatment, Rocky was provided with softer chew toys suitable for older dogs.
Outcome: Chewing on furniture stopped completely once his pain was addressed.
Expert Insights
Dr. Kate Mornement, Australian animal behaviourist:
“Owners often mistake chewing for defiance, but it’s rarely about misbehaviour. Chewing is communication—dogs are telling us they’re stressed, bored, or in need of something more.”
Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT Australia):
“Training must focus on redirection, not suppression. Provide alternatives, reward them, and gradually build better habits.”
Animal Medicines Australia Report (2022):
Nearly 40% of dog owners reported behavioural issues as a major challenge, with chewing among the most common complaints. This highlights the importance of accessible education and resources for Aussie pet families.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. At what age do puppies stop destructive chewing?
Most puppies begin to outgrow intense chewing by around 12–18 months, once teething ends and training takes effect. However, without proper guidance, chewing habits can continue into adulthood. Consistent redirection and enrichment are essential during the first year.
2. What are the safest chew toys for Australian dogs?
The safest options are durable rubber toys, nylon chews, and rope toys designed specifically for dogs. Avoid items that splinter (like cooked bones) or toys with small detachable parts. For strong chewers, invest in heavy-duty toys that can withstand jaw pressure.
3. Can diet really affect chewing behaviour?
Yes. Dogs with nutritional deficiencies may chew unusual items such as wood, rocks, or even soil. A complete and balanced diet, following AAFCO or FEDIAF guidelines, helps reduce this risk. Always consult a vet if your dog’s chewing habits seem unusual or excessive.
4. Is crate training safe for preventing destructive chewing?
Crate training, when done correctly, can be a safe management tool. A crate should never be used as punishment—it should be introduced as a positive, secure space. Providing chew toys inside the crate can help dogs self-soothe when left alone.
5. How long does it take to train a dog out of chewing?
On average, with consistent training and redirection, owners notice improvements within 2–6 weeks. Severe cases linked to anxiety may take several months and often benefit from professional support.
6. What should I avoid giving my dog to chew?
Avoid:
- Cooked bones (they splinter and can cause internal injuries).
- Children’s toys (contain unsafe materials and choking hazards).
- Household items treated with chemicals, paints, or glues.
7. Does destructive chewing mean my dog is aggressive?
No. Chewing is not a sign of aggression—it’s usually a coping mechanism for boredom, stress, or teething. Aggression is linked to very different behavioural cues.
8. Can destructive chewing be completely eliminated?
Chewing itself cannot (and should not) be eliminated, since it’s a natural behaviour. However, with the right training and enrichment, it can be redirected to safe and healthy outlets, protecting your belongings and keeping your dog satisfied.
Conclusion
Destructive chewing is one of the most common frustrations faced by Australian dog owners, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Chewing is not about defiance or spite—it is a natural behaviour rooted in instinct, development, and emotional needs. When it becomes destructive, it’s usually a signal that your dog is bored, anxious, under-stimulated, or in need of better outlets.
By recognising the underlying causes and applying consistent, positive training methods, owners can transform destructive chewing into healthy chewing habits. The key lies in prevention, redirection, and enrichment. Durable toys, puzzle feeders, natural chews, and calming aids all play a role, alongside daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Australian households in particular need to account for lifestyle challenges such as long work hours, smaller living spaces, and hot summers that limit outdoor activity. By tailoring strategies to the local environment, pet owners can set their dogs up for success.
“When we stop seeing chewing as misbehaviour and start seeing it as communication, we open the door to lasting solutions.” — Dr. Jo Righetti, Pet Behaviourist
For most dogs, a structured training plan and the right products will significantly reduce destructive chewing within weeks. In more severe cases, involving separation anxiety or medical issues, professional guidance from vets and behaviourists ensures your dog receives the help they need.
At the heart of it, destructive chewing is not just a household inconvenience—it’s an opportunity to strengthen the bond with your dog by understanding their needs and guiding them towards healthier behaviours. With patience, consistency, and the right tools, Australian pet owners can enjoy happier, calmer dogs and chew-free homes.
