Why Dogs Chew on Furniture

Ever caught your pup gnawing on your favorite armchair? This behavior might seem naughty, but it's actually rooted in instinct and physical need. Dogs explore and soothe themselves through chewing, and furniture often becomes the unfortunate target. But beyond simple mischief, chewing offers important health clues.

• Stress Relief: Dogs chew to self-soothe during bouts of anxiety or boredom.
• Teething & Jaw Exercise: Puppies, especially, experience discomfort while teething and seek relief by chewing.
• Dental Engagement: Chewing helps reduce plaque buildup and stimulates gums.

Jaw Strength and Health: More Than Just a Powerful Bite

Your dog’s enthusiasm for cushion-munching might indicate the need to develop jaw strength. A healthy jaw supports their chewing instincts, aids digestion through proper food breakdown, and promotes overall wellness.

Signs of Good Jaw Health

• Comfortably chews solid treats and toys
• Shows strong bite force without hesitation
• No signs of oral pain or avoidance behaviors

How to Support It

• Provide safe, durable chew toys suited to their size
• Incorporate textured treats that encourage natural wear on teeth
• Regular vet checkups to monitor bone and jaw condition

Dental Health Benefits of Safe Chewing

Chewing is nature’s way of helping dogs maintain dental hygiene. That doesn’t mean your sofa should be the target. With guided redirection, chewing promotes dental health while sparing your cushions.

• Decreases plaque and tartar buildup naturally
• Stimulates saliva production, which helps fight bacteria
• Reduces bad breath from oral bacteria

Look out for bleeding gums, excessive drooling, or refusal to chew—these may be signs of dental issues needing vet attention.

Emotional Triggers Behind Furniture Fixation

Dogs are emotional beings, and furniture chewing is often a symptom of deeper behavioral needs. Understanding their triggers brings us one step closer to healthy correction.

• Separation Anxiety: Chewing provides comfort when they're left alone.
• Lack of Stimuli: Without adequate mental engagement, dogs look for an outlet.
• Inconsistent Training: Dogs thrive on clear expectations and structure.

Providing enough exercise, stimulation, and structured downtime can transform this frustrating behavior into manageable habits.

Healthy Alternatives to Redirect Chewing Habits

To address your dog’s chewing without compromising your furniture, offer them healthier outlets. Here’s how:

• Rotate a variety of chew toys to maintain interest
• Use positive reinforcement to reward appropriate chewing
• Offer frozen treats or rubber chews for long-lasting satisfaction

Use scent-based enrichment or puzzle feeders to engage their brains and curb destructive tendencies.

Support Physical Health and Activity with Smart Tracking

Chewing is natural, but it's often heightened by excess energy. Ensuring your dog gets consistent physical activity is just as essential as providing dental treats or chew toys.

Queva Pets offers a smart tracking device designed to monitor your dog’s wellness while promoting daily movement. Features include:

• Activity tracking – walk, run, light, and intense sessions
• GPS tracking to keep tabs on your pup’s whereabouts
• Health score insights to monitor trends and behaviors

Empower your dog’s health journey with data-driven insights that help prevent behavioral issues before they start. Explore the Queva™ Smart Tracker today.