If your dog has ever turned your shoes into a chew toy or left tooth marks on your furniture, you’re not alone. Many Morris County pet owners have faced the frustration of coming home to find that their furry friend got a little too curious — or a lot too bored. While chewing is totally normal dog behavior, it becomes a real problem when your personal belongings are the target.
At DoodyCalls of Morris County, we understand that keeping a happy, healthy dog means more than just scooping poop. It also means helping you create a stress-free home environment. That’s why we’ve put together this guide for Morris Plains, NJ dog owners who are looking to curb unwanted chewing — without punishing or confusing their pups.
Why your dog is chewing on the wrong things
To change your dog’s behavior, you need to understand what’s driving it. Dogs chew for several reasons, including:
Puppy teething: Just like babies, puppies experience sore gums and need relief.
Boredom: Dogs left alone for long stretches may chew to entertain themselves.
Anxiety or stress: Separation anxiety is a common culprit behind destructive chewing.
Lack of proper outlets: If dogs don’t have appropriate chew toys, they’ll make their own choices.
Exploration: Dogs experience the world through their mouths — especially younger ones.
In Morris County homes where work schedules are packed and routines get busy, it's easy for dogs to go long hours without attention or stimulation — and that’s when chewing can really ramp up.
Create a dog-friendly space in your Morris Plains, NJ home
One of the easiest ways to prevent destructive chewing is by setting your dog up for success. Think of it like child-proofing, but for pets.
Start by:
Keeping shoes, clothing, and cords out of reach
Putting away kids’ toys or anything small and chewable
Blocking off rooms where chewing damage could be worse (like your home office or formal living room)
Pet stores in and around Morris Plains, NJ carry bitter-tasting sprays that can deter chewing on wood furniture or baseboards. These are safe for dogs but make the item taste unpleasant enough to keep them away.
Offer better chewing alternatives
You can't stop your Morris County dog from chewing altogether — but you can give them better options. Dogs need something that satisfies their natural urge to chew, so it’s important to find toys that fit your dog’s age, size, and chewing strength.
A few popular options:
Kong toys: Fill with peanut butter or treats and freeze for long-lasting distraction
Rope toys: Great for light to moderate chewers
Hard rubber toys: Best for power chewers who destroy soft toys too quickly
Chews made from natural materials: Like antlers, yak milk chews, or dental bones
Rotate toys every few days to keep things fresh. Morris County dogs get bored easily — variety is key!
Burn off energy with daily activity
Chewing is often a sign that your dog has pent-up energy. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Luckily, Morris Plains, NJ and surrounding areas have plenty of dog-friendly parks and walking trails to help your pup burn off some steam.
Even short, consistent outings can help:
Morning and evening walks around your Morris Plains neighborhood
Play sessions in the yard or local dog park
Dog puzzle toys for mental stimulation
Tug-of-war or fetch during your breaks if you work from home
If you’re away for long stretches, consider hiring a dog walker or asking a neighbor for help.
Use positive reinforcement, not punishment
It’s frustrating to come home to a chewed-up couch cushion, but yelling or punishing your dog won’t help — in fact, it can make things worse. The goal is to teach your dog what they should do, not just what they shouldn’t.
Here’s what works:
Catch them in the act and calmly say “no.”
Immediately offer a toy as a replacement.
Praise them when they chew the toy instead.
Consistency is everything. Everyone in your Morris County home needs to be on board with the same training methods to avoid mixed messages.
When to seek professional help
If your dog’s chewing is excessive or driven by anxiety, it may be time to consult a vet or local Morris Plains dog trainer. Sometimes chewing is a symptom of a larger issue that needs to be addressed through behavior training or medical support.
How DoodyCalls of Morris County can help
A clean yard can support a calm, well-behaved dog. At DoodyCalls of Morris County, we help pet owners maintain a clean, healthy outdoor space so your dog has a safe place to play and release energy. When your pup has a yard they love, they’re less likely to get bored — and less likely to chew on your furniture out of frustration.
Final thoughts for Morris County pet parents
Chewing is natural, but with the right tools, training, and routines, it doesn’t have to mean ruined shoes or shredded pillows. By being proactive and understanding your dog’s needs, you can protect your home and help your dog thrive in your Morris Plains, NJ household.
Need a hand with yard cleanup so you can spend more time focusing on your dog’s training and care? DoodyCalls of Morris County is here to help. Contact us today for reliable, affordable pet waste removal services that keep your outdoor space as fresh as your pup.