How to Keep Your Dog from Chewing Their Bed

A Bernese Mountain Dog drags a dog bed around a shiny wood floor

After you’ve done the hard work of choosing the right bed for your dog, it can be frustrating to see your dog destroy it with their chewing, and, most importantly, it can be a hazard if they swallow materials. For adult dogs who are no longer teething and compulsively chew their bed, it’s important to consider their motivation in order to curb the behavior.

Two fluffy corgis look outside a window from inside a house

Anxiety

A black dog surrounded by fluff from a toy

Destructive chewing can be a stress-related behavior. External stressors like separation anxiety can drive your pet to compulsive chewing.


Here’s what we recommend:

  • Identify and eliminate stressors that set off your dog. This is the most efficient solution for destructive bed chewing, but the triggers may lie beyond your control. If the presence of small children or other pets upsets your dog, establish new boundaries to make them feel more secure. If outside noise like thunder, traffic, or fireworks is a stressor, try relocating your pup’s bed to a different, quieter location inside.
  • Use a synthetic dog pheromone product. Odorless and conveniently packaged in sprays or wipes, they mimic the natural calming pheromones mothers release for their puppies. Be advised it takes time for the pheromones to work and you must reapply them monthly.
  • Leave on a television or radio when you’re gone. The background noise can have a calming effect on an anxious dog and can help dull outside noises.
  • Talk to a professional. For dogs with severe anxiety, consulting with a trained animal behavior therapist can be well worth the investment for long-term results. Ask your vet for local recommendations.

Quick Tip: Consider positive reinforcement training instead of punishment as a way to build your dog’s confidence, help to mitigate their anxiety, and build trust and a line of communication with you.

A close-up of a spotted dog laying on a dog bed

Boredom

A couple walking their dog on a beach

Boredom can drive dogs to chew their beds; dogs become frustrated and restless when they don’t have a positive outlet for pent-up energy.


Here’s what we recommend:

  • Exercise your dog. If crating your dog, make sure they get 30-60 minutes of exercise prior to going in their crate, and make sure they get appropriate bathroom breaks.
  • Keep your dog busy. In addition, to chew toys, interactive dog toys you can stuff with food or treats help keep your dog mentally stimulated and working for a reward.
  • Redirect their energy. When you find your dog chewing on their bed, give them an appropriate chew toy instead.

Quick Tip: Deterrent sprays can be an effective strategy to break your dog’s bed-chewing fixation but be sure to investigate your pup’s underlying motivation to ensure they’re stimulated and happy.

A close-up of a man hugging his dog under a tree

Stay Patient

A yellow Labrador Retriever chewing at a blue Tough Chew dog bed

For most dogs, chewing is a natural, healthy behavior limited to toys and treats. Whether working with an adult dog to deter problem chewing or a new puppy who is in a teething stage, our chew-proof ToughChew® Dog Beds withstand bed-destroying behavior or your money back—buying you some time to work on the behavior without having to keep buying new beds.

Shop ToughChew® Dog Beds

More Expert Advice

Explore the Guide