19/03/2026
Puppies explore the world using their mouths, in the way that young children use their hands.
From about 10 weeks to 8+ months, puppies go through teething. To help alleviate this very uncomfortable stage, puppies chew and bite. Other reasons for this behavior, is over-arousal, boredom or lack of sleepl!
Your puppy is NOT chewing on your furniture and shoes or nipping at your fingers and toes to be naughty or malicious, so instead of getting upset or angry, be kind and help your pup, by redirecting with a suitable toy or chew, making sure your pup gets enough sleep and puppy proofing your home.
Give your pup items, that suit his particular chewing needs.. If your pup has taken to chewing on your clothes and rugs, offer a softer more plush type alternative...
Furniture, doors etc, offer firmer chews...
If your pup has taken to chewing on you, then offer a more rubbery type chew toy.
You need to make the new item more exciting, so act like it's the most fun thing in the world, throw it around and make it look like it's fun to chase and shake. Get your pup to engage with the new item and give lots of happy praise.
Always set your pup up for success and puppy proof your home!! If he gets into something he shouldn't, that's on you!
Keep easy to access things like shoes and cables off the floor and out of reach. If you have cats, move their litter trays higher up or pen them off. Put locks on your inside bins and empty and clean regularly, so that you pup isn't attracted to the contents, by enticing smells.
Give your pup his own area, using baby gates or pen off a section in a room. (See our Crate Guide in the Guide Section for pics and crate training advice) Make sure your pup has access to clean, fresh water at all times. If you have children, don't let them engage with the pup in his safe and quiet time space.. no poking fingers through the bars or teasing, this will only lead to frustration and over-arousal, which can then lead to other unwanted behavioural issues.
Remember, teething and chewing issues are not permanent, especially in relaxed and happy pups and you will find plenty of Canine Enrichment Ideas here, to help keep your pups entertained.
