How to Stop Destructive Chewing in High-Energy Breeds

How to Stop Destructive Chewing in High-Energy Breeds

If you own a Border Collie, a Belgian Malinois, or a Labrador Retriever, you know that their energy levels are boundless. However, when that energy isn't channeled correctly, it often manifests in a way that pet parents dread: **destructive chewing**. Finding your favorite pair of shoes or a sofa cushion shredded into pieces is frustrating, but for high-energy breeds, this behavior is rarely about being "bad." It is usually a sign of boredom, anxiety, or a simple biological need to explore.

In 2026, we have a better understanding of canine enrichment than ever before. If you want to save your furniture and keep your pup happy, follow these expert strategies to stop destructive chewing for good.

### 1. Understand the "Why"

Before you can stop the behavior, you must understand the root cause. High-energy breeds were often bred to work—herding, hunting, or guarding. When they are confined to a modern home with nothing to do, they "invent" a job for themselves. Chewing is a self-soothing activity that releases endorphins in a dog’s brain. If your dog is chewing, they are likely either **under-exercised**, **teething** (if they are a puppy), or suffering from **separation anxiety**.

### 2. Increase Physical and Mental Stimulation

For a high-energy breed, a quick 15-minute walk around the block is rarely enough. These dogs need "active" exercise that tires out both their muscles and their minds.

 * **Physical:** Engage in games of fetch, agility training, or "flirt pole" play.

 * **Mental:** Mental exhaustion often tires a dog faster than physical exercise. Use puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, and hide-and-seek games. If their brain is busy solving a puzzle, they won't be looking for your television remote to chew on.

### 3. The Power of "Trade-Up" and Redirection

Never punish a dog after the fact for chewing; they won't make the connection between the chewed shoe and your anger. Instead, catch them in the act and **redirect**.

If you see your dog eyeing a furniture leg, immediately offer a high-value chew toy (like a natural rubber KONG or a nylon bone). When they switch to the toy, provide enthusiastic praise. This teaches them exactly what is "legal" to chew on.

### 4. Provide Appropriate Outlets

Chewing is a natural instinct. You shouldn't try to stop it entirely—you just need to provide the right tools. High-energy breeds have powerful jaws, so "soft" plush toys won't last five minutes. Invest in:

 * **Indestructible Rubber Toys:** Look for heavy-duty options designed for power chewers.

 * **Natural Alternatives:** Bully sticks, yak chews, and antlers (with supervision) provide a satisfying texture and taste that furniture simply can't match.

### 5. Puppy-Proof and Manage the Environment

Until your dog can be trusted, management is your best friend.

 * **Keep Temptations Away:** Don’t leave shoes, kids' toys, or laundry on the floor.

 * **Use Deterrents:** For furniture legs that you can’t move, use a pet-safe "bitter spray." Most dogs find the taste of bitter apple or cherry repulsive and will avoid the area after one taste.

 * **Crate Training:** A crate or a playpen is not a punishment; it is a safe space. If you cannot supervise your high-energy dog, they should be in a "dog-proofed" area with their own toys.

### Conclusion

Stopping destructive chewing in high-energy breeds is a journey of patience and consistency. By meeting your dog’s needs for physical activity and mental engagement, you remove the *need* for them to destroy your home. Remember, a tired dog is a well-behaved dog. In 2026, we focus on rewarding the right choices rather than punishing the wrong ones. Stay consistent, keep those puzzle toys filled, and you’ll find that your furniture—and your relationship with your pup—will be better for it!