Does your canine pal like to chew on things? If so, you’re in good company. At Companion Animal Hospital in Live Oak, FL, our veterinarians understand that chewing is a natural and necessary behavior for dogs. From puppies teething on a table leg to adult dogs methodically gnawing a toy, chewing is a way for canines to explore the world, ease stress, and maintain oral health. Yet not all chewing is created equal. While some chewing is perfectly healthy, destructive or obsessive chewing can damage your home, endanger your dog’s health, and frustrate even the most patient family.

If you’ve been searching for a vet near me in Live Oak to learn more about chewing behaviors, our veterinary clinic is here with clear advice. This blog explores dog chewing habits, explaining which are normal, when to worry, and how to provide chewing solutions for dogs. We’ll also cover the root causes of destructive chewing in dogs and practical tips to redirect your canine friend toward safe, healthy habits.

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Why Dogs Chew

Chewing is instinctive for dogs, but the reasons vary depending on age, personality, and environment.

• Exploration: Just like babies use their mouths, puppies explore their world by chewing.
• Teething relief: Between three and six months, chewing soothes the pain of erupting adult teeth.
• Stress relief: Chewing releases endorphins that calm the nervous system. Many dogs self-soothe this way.
• Boredom outlet: Left without stimulation, a dog may chew simply to fill the time.
• Dental health: Safe chewing helps reduce plaque and stimulate gums.

Our Live Oak veterinarians compare chewing to reading or exercise for humans—it’s not just fun, it’s beneficial when done correctly.

Normal vs. Destructive Chewing

Normal chewing includes:

• Puppies chewing appropriate teething toys
• Adult dogs working on safe chew items for short periods
• Gnawing outdoors on sticks or natural items, supervised

Destructive chewing involves:

• Furniture, shoes, or household objects
• Ingesting dangerous items (rocks, plastic, batteries)
• Chewing until teeth fracture or gums bleed
• Compulsive chewing that interferes with daily life

Destructive chewing isn’t just inconvenient—it may point to unmet needs or health concerns. Of course, choosing the right toys is crucial. We did a piece on this previously, which you can find here. The ASPCA also has a post on chewing, which is here.

Stages of Chewing Through a Dog’s Life

Puppies

Chewing peaks during teething. Redirecting to safe toys is crucial to prevent bad habits.

Adolescents (6–18 months)

Chewing often intensifies again during this “teenage” phase. Dogs have full strength but may lack self-control. Structured play, exercise, and chew outlets are essential.

Adult Dogs

Chewing becomes more purposeful and less frequent. Most adult chewing is for stress relief, play, or boredom management.

Seniors

Older dogs may chew less overall, but sudden increases can signal dental pain or anxiety. Provide softer chews to protect aging teeth.

Why Dogs Chew Inappropriately

Our Live Oak veterinary clinic often sees dogs chewing destructively for these reasons:

• Separation anxiety: Chewing when left alone, often near doors or windows.
• Boredom: Lack of exercise and stimulation leads to self-made “projects.”
• Attention-seeking: Some dogs learn that chewing forbidden items gets a big reaction.
• Medical causes: Dental disease, nausea, or nutritional deficiencies may trigger chewing.
• Learned habits: If puppies aren’t redirected, chewing furniture can become a lifelong pattern

Chewing Solutions for Dogs

Provide Plenty of Chew Options

Offer a variety of safe toys—rubber, rope, nylon, and dental chews. Rotate weekly to maintain novelty. Click here for our blog on dog toys.

Exercise and Mental Enrichment

Tired dogs chew less destructively. Daily walks, fetch, training games, and puzzle feeders burn both mental and physical energy.

Supervise and Manage the Environment

Use crates or baby gates to limit access when unsupervised. Keep shoes, remotes, and children’s toys out of reach.

Address Underlying Stress

If chewing spikes during absences or storms, anxiety may be the root cause. Our veterinarians in Live Oak can recommend behavior strategies or supportive care.

Redirect Calmly

Catch your pup in the act? Redirect gently to an appropriate toy, then praise when they chew it. Punishment often backfires by increasing anxiety.

Building a Daily Chewing Management Plan

Families succeed when chewing care becomes part of daily routines. Here’s a sample plan:

• Morning: 20–30 minutes of exercise (walk or play) followed by breakfast in a puzzle feeder.
• Midday: Supervised chew session with a safe toy.
• Evening: Training games or tug, followed by a durable chew while the family relaxes.
• Before bed: Calm enrichment like a frozen food-filled toy to promote relaxation.

This predictable rhythm prevents boredom and channels chewing energy productively.

Veterinary Care for Chewing Problems

Our Live Oak animal hospital helps families determine whether chewing is normal or a red flag. Exams may reveal:

• Dental disease causing discomfort
• Digestive issues leading to pica (eating non-food items)
• Anxiety or behavior concerns requiring a treatment plan

With professional guidance, destructive chewing can almost always be improved.

Fun Facts About Dog Chewing

• Puppies have 28 baby teeth that fall out as 42 adult teeth emerge by 6 months.
• Chewing releases “feel-good” chemicals in the brain, similar to exercise.
• Breeds bred for retrieving or herding (like labs and collies) may naturally chew more.
• Dogs’ jaws can generate 200–250 pounds of pressure, enough to crack inappropriate objects.

FAQ: Dog Chewing

How do I stop my dog from chewing furniture?

Provide alternatives, increase exercise, and manage the environment. Punishment doesn’t work—redirection does.

What toys are safest for heavy chewers?

Durable rubber toys are best. Avoid bones, antlers, or hard nylon toys that can fracture teeth.

Is chewing always behavioral?

No. Sudden chewing changes may signal dental pain, nausea, or other medical issues.

How long should dogs chew daily?

Most dogs benefit from short, supervised sessions rather than hours of unsupervised chewing.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Live Oak Vets

If your pup’s chewing has become destructive or you’re looking for safe chewing solutions for dogs, visit Companion Animal Hospital in Live Oak, FL. Our veterinarians can evaluate dental health, rule out medical causes, and provide tailored advice for managing dog chewing habits. Call us today to schedule a visit and keep your canine companion happy, safe, and chewing the right things.

Visit our Service page here for more information on our Live Oak, FL animal clinic and the pets we treat.

This blog is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for specific medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for your pet.