Labradors are known for their playful and energetic nature, but this often leads to chewing on furniture, shoes, and household items. While chewing is a natural behavior for puppies, adult Labradors may continue to chew if they haven’t been properly trained. Teaching your Labrador what is acceptable to chew and what isn’t can save your belongings and ensure a peaceful household.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to stop your Labrador from chewing on furniture and personal items, focusing on positive training methods and strategies to keep your dog happy and well-behaved.
Why Do Labradors Chew on Furniture and Belongings?
Chewing is a normal and instinctual behavior for Labradors, but it can become problematic when they chew on inappropriate items. Here are some reasons why your Labrador may chew on furniture and belongings:
1. Teething (Puppies)
Puppies go through a teething phase between 3 to 6 months, during which they have an intense urge to chew. Chewing helps soothe sore gums as their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth grow in.
2. Boredom and Lack of Stimulation
Labradors are highly energetic and intelligent dogs. Without proper physical and mental stimulation, they may turn to chewing as a way to entertain themselves or relieve boredom.
3. Anxiety and Stress
Some Labradors chew on furniture when they’re feeling anxious or stressed. Separation anxiety, changes in routine, or lack of socialization can contribute to this behavior.
4. Attention-Seeking
Labradors are social dogs that crave attention. If they chew on furniture or belongings and get a reaction from you—whether positive or negative—they may continue to do it as a way to get your attention.
5. Lack of Proper Training
If your Labrador hasn’t been taught what is acceptable to chew, they may target household items like shoes, cushions, or furniture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Stop Your Labrador from Chewing on Furniture
1. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
To prevent chewing on furniture, provide your Labrador with appropriate chew toys that satisfy their natural urge to chew.
- Choose durable toys that are specifically designed for chewing, such as rubber toys, nylon bones, or Kong toys.
- Rotate the toys regularly to keep your Labrador interested and engaged.
- Praise and reward when your dog chews on their toys, reinforcing the behavior you want.
2. Redirect Their Attention
If you catch your Labrador chewing on something inappropriate, redirect their attention to one of their chew toys.
- Say “no” or “leave it” firmly and immediately replace the item with a toy.
- Encourage your dog to chew on the toy by holding it near their mouth or using treats to engage them.
- Praise them when they start chewing the toy, rewarding them for making the right choice.
3. Use Bitter Spray or Deterrents
If your Labrador continues to chew on furniture, you can use bitter sprays or deterrents to make the furniture less appealing.
- Spray the furniture or belongings with a bitter-tasting spray designed for dogs.
- Test a small area first to ensure the spray doesn’t damage the furniture.
- Combine the deterrent with positive reinforcement by rewarding your dog when they choose to chew on their toys instead of the furniture.
4. Provide Plenty of Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Labradors are high-energy dogs that need plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
- Exercise regularly by going for walks, runs, or engaging in active play like fetch or tug-of-war.
- Provide puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys to challenge your dog’s brain and keep them busy.
- Teach new tricks or practice obedience commands to keep their minds engaged.
- A tired dog is less likely to chew on furniture as they will have more energy directed toward positive activities.
5. Prevent Access to Chewable Items
To prevent your Labrador from chewing on inappropriate items, limit their access to those things.
- Keep shoes, pillows, and furniture out of reach when you’re not home or supervising your dog.
- Use baby gates or closed doors to restrict access to areas where your dog is likely to chew on things.
- Keep personal items off the floor, such as bags or clothing, which may attract your dog’s attention.
6. Crate Training
Crate training can be helpful in preventing destructive chewing when you’re not home.
- Use a crate as a safe space where your Labrador can relax when you’re away.
- Ensure the crate is comfortable with bedding, and leave a chew toy or bone inside to keep them occupied.
- Avoid using the crate as punishment—it should be a positive, relaxing space.
7. Address Anxiety and Stress
If your Labrador’s chewing behavior is caused by anxiety or stress, addressing the root cause is essential.
- Increase exercise and mental stimulation to alleviate anxiety.
- Consider a calming supplement or consult your veterinarian if anxiety is severe.
- Create a consistent routine to help your dog feel secure and reduce stress.
- If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, consult a professional trainer or behaviorist for guidance.
8. Consistent Training and Patience
Consistency and patience are key to modifying chewing behavior.
- Never punish your Labrador for chewing, as this can cause confusion and anxiety.
- Be consistent with training by redirecting their attention to toys and rewarding good behavior every time.
- Patience is key—it may take time for your Labrador to fully understand what’s appropriate to chew and what isn’t.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Punishing Your Dog
Punishing your Labrador after the fact (e.g., scolding them for chewing on furniture when you weren’t present) won’t stop the behavior. Instead, focus on redirecting their attention and rewarding good behavior.
2. Giving Your Dog Too Many Toys
While it’s important to provide toys, offering too many at once can be overwhelming. Stick to a few durable toys that are easy for your dog to focus on.
3. Using Harmful Deterrents
Avoid using sprays or substances that can harm your dog or damage your furniture. Always choose dog-safe, non-toxic deterrents.
4. Not Providing Enough Stimulation
If your Labrador is left alone with little to do, they may resort to chewing out of boredom. Ensure they have plenty of physical and mental stimulation, especially when you’re not home.
Final Thoughts
With patience, consistency, and proper training, you can teach your Labrador to stop chewing on furniture and belongings. By providing appropriate chew toys, keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated, and using positive reinforcement, you can turn your Labrador into a well-behaved, happy companion.
Remember, chewing is a natural behavior, but redirecting that energy to appropriate toys and activities will save your furniture and strengthen the bond between you and your Labrador.