Is your dog suddenly chewing walls, drywall, or corners of your home? You’re not alone. Many dog owners struggle with destructive chewing, especially during puppyhood or periods of stress. Knowing how to stop dog from chewing walls can protect your home and help your dog live a more balanced life.
Table of Contents
- Reasons Dogs Chew Walls
- Is Chewing Walls Dangerous?
- How to Stop Dog from Chewing Walls
- Training Tips and Prevention Techniques
- Pro Tips from Trainers
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- FAQ
Reasons Dogs Chew Walls
Before you solve the problem, you need to understand the “why.” Dog chewing drywall or corners is often linked to behavioral or health triggers such as:
- Teething: Puppies relieve teething pain by chewing anything in sight.
- Anxiety or Stress: Separation anxiety or loud noises can cause destructive behavior.
- Boredom or Lack of Stimulation: Dogs without enough physical or mental activity may chew walls out of frustration.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Pica (eating non-food items) can be linked to diet imbalances.
- Attention-Seeking: Some dogs learn that chewing gets them attention, even if negative.
Understanding these reasons dogs chew walls helps tailor the solution more effectively.
Is Chewing Walls Dangerous?
Yes, chewing walls can be dangerous. Dogs can ingest drywall particles, insulation, paint, or even nails. This can lead to choking, gastrointestinal blockages, or poisoning if the walls contain lead-based paint. Additionally, dog chewing drywall can cause long-term dental damage.
How to Stop Dog from Chewing Walls
Let’s break down the most effective steps to put an end to this destructive habit:
- Identify the trigger: Is it boredom, stress, or lack of exercise? Solving the root cause is key.
- Provide chew-safe alternatives: Offer durable chew toys like those listed in our guide for aggressive chewers.
- Exercise and mental stimulation: Regular walks and puzzle toys reduce excess energy that leads to chewing.
- Apply deterrent sprays: Bitter-tasting sprays can discourage chewing specific spots.
- Use barriers: Baby gates or furniture rearrangement can block access to vulnerable walls.
Consistency and supervision are key during this process.
Training Tips and Prevention Techniques
Training your dog not to chew walls involves positive reinforcement and routine. Here’s how:
- Redirect the behavior with a firm “no” and offer a chew toy.
- Reward your dog immediately when they choose the toy instead of the wall.
- Practice crate training for unsupervised times. Crate training can prevent mischief when you’re away.
- Use clicker training techniques (clicker guide here) for marking good behavior.
Pro Tips from Trainers
Here are a few tips from professionals on how to stop dog from chewing walls:
- Rotate toys weekly to keep them novel and interesting.
- Use scent markers like lavender sprays in areas where your dog is calm — and never near chewed walls.
- Consult a vet if you suspect medical issues behind chewing.
- Make sure your dog gets both structured playtime and downtime.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Yelling or physical punishment: This only increases anxiety and may worsen the chewing.
- Inconsistent training: If some days the behavior is ignored, it reinforces confusion.
- Using toxic substances: Avoid using cleaning products or cayenne pepper as deterrents — they can harm your dog.
FAQ
Why is my dog chewing drywall?
Your dog may be bored, teething, anxious, or lacking mental stimulation. Drywall is soft and tempting for many dogs.
How do I repair a wall chewed by a dog?
Patch holes with drywall compound, sand it smooth, then repaint using pet-safe materials. Add a physical barrier if needed.
Can chewing walls be a sign of a health issue?
Yes. If your dog shows signs of pica or compulsive chewing, consult a vet to rule out medical conditions.
Final Thoughts
If your dog is chewing walls, it’s a sign something deeper may be going on — whether it’s anxiety, boredom, or a health issue. With patience, training, and consistent redirection, you can stop the behavior and build a happier relationship with your pup.
Want more tips on dog behavior? Explore our guides on chewing furniture or general dog behavior tips.
External source: PetMD – Why Dogs Chew
📌 Pro Tip: Early intervention is easier than correcting a habit later. Start training as soon as chewing behavior begins.
🐶 Ready to help your dog stop chewing walls for good? Start today by identifying the root cause and redirecting their energy into healthy habits.
