If you're a dog owner in Cedarburg, WI, there's a good chance you’ve come home to a chewed-up shoe, corner of the couch, or maybe even an unfortunate remote control. It's frustrating—and expensive. But you're not alone. Chewing is one of the most common issues Cedarburg pet owners face, especially with young pups or dogs who are bored, anxious, or not getting enough stimulation.
The good news? There are real, practical steps you can take to help your dog stop chewing on everything that isn’t a toy. Whether you're preparing your Cedarburg dog for a new routine, or just trying to protect your furniture, this guide will walk you through it.
Understand why your dog is chewing
Before you can stop the behavior, it’s important to understand why it's happening. Dogs chew for different reasons depending on their age, personality, and daily habits. Here are a few common causes:
Teething (puppies): Just like babies, puppies go through a teething phase. Chewing helps relieve the discomfort.
Boredom: A dog that isn’t mentally or physically stimulated will often find their own "fun," which can involve your socks, shoes, or chair legs.
Separation anxiety: Dogs who don’t like being left alone may chew to cope with stress.
Lack of training: If your dog hasn’t learned what’s OK to chew and what’s off-limits, they’ll make up their own rules.
Make your Cedarburg home dog-proof (at least at first)
Start by removing the temptation. In the early stages of training, try to keep shoes, cords, kids’ toys, and anything else chewable off the floor or out of reach. Baby gates or playpens can help create a safe, chew-free zone for your dog when you’re not able to supervise.
Even simple changes like using a cord cover or keeping laundry baskets in closets can prevent damage and keep your pup safe.
Provide appropriate chew toys—and make them exciting
Every Cedarburg dog needs a few good chew toys. But not all chew toys are created equal. Try a variety of options—rubber, nylon, rope, or puzzle-based toys—to see what your dog likes best.
To make the right toys more appealing:
Rotate them out so your dog doesn’t get bored.
Add peanut butter or treats inside a Kong or similar toy.
Praise and reward your dog when they choose the right toy to chew on.
Remember, giving them something better to chew is more effective than simply saying "no."
Use positive reinforcement and consistency
Training your dog not to chew inappropriate items takes time and patience. When you catch your dog chewing on something off-limits:
Gently interrupt the behavior (use a simple “uh-uh” or clap).
Redirect them to an appropriate toy.
Praise them when they chew the right thing.
Cedarburg pet owners know that consistency is key—don’t let it slide just because you’re tired or busy. Every time you reinforce good behavior, you're building habits that last.
Address anxiety and boredom with exercise and enrichment
A tired dog is a good dog. If your dog is chewing out of boredom or anxiety, they may just need more activity. Here in Cedarburg, WI, we’re lucky to have great walking trails and dog-friendly parks. Daily walks, games of fetch, or even doggy playdates can do wonders for mental and physical health.
Also, consider enrichment activities like:
Puzzle feeders during mealtime
Short training sessions that challenge your dog’s brain
Doggy daycare or dog-walking services if you're gone for long hours
Mental stimulation can curb destructive chewing faster than scolding ever will.
Try taste deterrents (as a last resort)
If your dog keeps going back to one item—say, your wooden table legs or window sills—you can try a pet-safe chew deterrent spray. These sprays taste bitter and are safe to use on furniture and baseboards. But don’t rely on this alone—it should be part of a larger strategy.
Also, check that your dog isn't chewing due to an underlying issue like dental pain or a medical concern. If you’re unsure, a visit to your vet can rule out any health problems.
Cedarburg pet owners, you’re not alone in the struggle
Chewing can be maddening, especially when it feels like you're always one step behind your dog. But with patience, redirection, and a little help from local resources, you can protect your belongings and keep your pup happy.
If you're busy managing a household, work, and all the other responsibilities that come with pet ownership, consider letting DoodyCalls of Cedarburg take one thing off your plate—pet waste cleanup. A clean yard and happy dog go hand-in-hand, and we’re here to support your pet-parent journey.
DoodyCalls of Cedarburg is proud to serve local dog owners with reliable, professional pet waste removal services. Whether you need a one-time cleanup or regular visits, we’re here to help keep your home and yard cleaner—and your pup out of trouble.
Looking for more Cedarburg dog care tips? Stay tuned to our blog or give us a call. We’re always happy to chat!