If you're a dog owner in Frederick, MD, you probably know the frustration of finding your favorite shoes, a couch cushion, or even a TV remote chewed to pieces. Dogs are naturally inclined to chew—it helps them explore the world, relieve boredom, and soothe anxiety—but that doesn’t make it any less stressful when your belongings are the target.
At DoodyCalls of Frederick, we spend a lot of time around dogs, and we understand just how common (and challenging) this issue is. The good news is, with a little consistency and the right approach, you can redirect your dog’s chewing habits toward their toys—and away from your furniture, clothes, and cords.
Here’s a guide to help Frederick pet owners manage and prevent unwanted chewing behavior.
Understand why your dog is chewing in the first place
Before you can stop your dog from chewing, it’s important to figure out why they’re doing it. The most common reasons include:
Teething (for puppies): Just like babies, puppies chew to relieve the discomfort of growing teeth.
Boredom: Dogs left alone for long stretches without stimulation often turn to chewing as a way to pass the time.
Anxiety or stress: Separation anxiety is a huge trigger, especially for dogs who are new to your home or not used to being alone.
Lack of proper chew toys: If they don’t have access to appropriate toys, they’ll make their own choices—which usually involve your belongings.
By identifying the root cause, Frederick dog owners can tailor their response more effectively.
Make sure your dog has access to safe, engaging chew toys
It sounds simple, but this is where a lot of people get tripped up. Not all chew toys are created equal. Dogs are picky—some prefer soft plush toys, others love rubber or nylon textures. The key is to try a few and see what keeps your dog’s attention.
Try rotating toys weekly to keep things interesting. And don’t forget to praise your dog when they chew on the right thing. Positive reinforcement goes a long way.
For our Frederick clients, we often recommend checking out local pet stores where you can feel the toys yourself and get guidance on what might be best for your pup.
Keep tempting household items out of reach
Let’s be honest—your dog isn’t trying to destroy your home. But they will go for what’s accessible, especially if it smells like you. That includes:
Shoes (a classic favorite)
TV remotes
Kids’ toys
Cords
Pillows and blankets
Frederick pet owners can cut down on chewing simply by making these items harder to access. Store shoes in closed closets, use cord protectors, and keep counters clear. It’s not a cure-all, but it’s a helpful first step.
Use crate training and boundaries wisely
Many Frederick dog owners use crate training as a way to prevent destructive chewing when they’re away. This works especially well for puppies and high-energy breeds. A crate gives your dog a safe space with no temptations—just their bed and chew toys.
If you’re not into crating, consider gating off rooms or using indoor pet playpens. The goal is to limit unsupervised access to the rest of the house while they’re still learning.
Offer more physical and mental exercise
One of the most common causes of chewing? Not enough exercise. Dogs need an outlet for their energy. A bored dog is much more likely to start gnawing on your furniture than one who just finished a long walk around Baker Park.
Try adding an extra 15-20 minutes to your dog’s daily walk. Or break it up into a few shorter outings. Puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, and even frozen KONGs can keep their brains busy when you’re not home.
Address separation anxiety or stress directly
If your dog’s chewing seems to happen only when you leave the house, separation anxiety may be to blame. This is especially common among rescue dogs and new puppies in their first few weeks home.
In Frederick, we’re lucky to have several dog behaviorists and trainers who specialize in anxiety reduction. A professional can help you gradually desensitize your pup to being alone and suggest targeted strategies that work with your lifestyle.
When to consider help from a professional
If nothing seems to work and the chewing is getting worse, don’t be afraid to call in help. Local Frederick dog trainers and behaviorists can work with you one-on-one to troubleshoot the issue.
And while we’re not dog trainers at DoodyCalls of Frederick, we do spend a lot of time supporting dog owners in creating cleaner, calmer outdoor spaces—and that often starts with a more content, well-trained dog at home.
Keeping your home and your dog happy in Frederick, MD
Dealing with chewing behavior is tough, especially when you're juggling work, kids, and everything else life throws your way. But with patience and the right tools, your dog can learn to chew only on their own toys.
At DoodyCalls of Frederick, we know being a responsible pet owner doesn’t stop at the backyard—but if you do need help keeping your outdoor space clean and waste-free, we’re just a call away. We’re proud to support Frederick dog owners with reliable, affordable pet waste removal so you can spend more time enjoying your dog—and less time cleaning up after them.