Introduction
Anyone who has raised a puppy knows the struggle. Shoes disappear, furniture corners look rough, and almost anything left within reach becomes a dogs chew toy. One moment the house is quiet, and the next you’re pulling a sock out of a puppy’s mouth. For new dog owners, this behavior can be frustrating and confusing.
Puppies aren’t chewing to be naughty or destructive. Chewing is one of the main ways they explore the world and deal with changes in their growing bodies. Just like human babies put things in their mouths, puppies use their mouths to learn and cope.
Understanding why puppies chew everything helps owners respond with patience instead of frustration. It’s a normal stage of development that, with time and guidance, usually improves as the puppy grows.
What This Behavior Is About
Chewing is a natural learning tool.
Puppies use their mouths to explore, relieve discomfort, and understand their environment. It’s part of how they grow.
This phase is temporary.
Main Reasons Puppies Chew Everything
Teething Discomfort
Puppies lose baby teeth.
As new teeth come in, their gums can feel uncomfortable. Chewing helps ease that sensation.
Relief drives the behavior.
Exploring Their World
Puppies are curious.
They don’t have hands, so their mouths become their way of learning about objects, textures, and smells.
Everything is new.
Excess Energy
Puppies have lots of energy.
Chewing helps release it, especially when they haven’t had enough play or movement.
It keeps them busy.
Comfort and Self-Soothing
Chewing can be calming.
When puppies feel tired, unsure, or overstimulated, chewing helps them relax.
It’s emotionally soothing.
Learning Boundaries
Puppies don’t know rules yet.
They chew first and learn later. Through guidance, they slowly understand what’s allowed.
Learning takes time.
Is This Normal or Something to Worry About?
This behavior is completely normal.
Almost all puppies go through a chewing phase. It usually decreases as they grow and learn.
It’s only a concern if chewing continues intensely into adulthood.
What Dog Owners Can Learn or Do
Provide safe chewing options.
Giving puppies appropriate chew toys and rotating them helps protect household items. Gentle redirection works better than punishment.
Patience builds good habits.
Common Myths vs Reality
Myth: Puppies chew to annoy owners
Reality: It’s a natural need.
Myth: Chewing means poor training
Reality: It’s part of development.
Myth: Puppies will never stop chewing
Reality: Most grow out of it.
Myth: Punishment stops chewing
Reality: Guidance works better.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the chewing phase last?
Usually until puppy teeth settle.
Should I scold my puppy for chewing?
Redirection works better than scolding.
Do all puppies chew this much?
Yes, though levels vary.
Conclusion
Puppies chew everything because it helps them grow, learn, and feel better during a time of big physical and emotional changes. It’s not bad behavior—it’s normal puppy behavior. With understanding and patience, this phase becomes easier to manage.
For dog owners, the key is providing safe outlets and staying consistent. Chewing won’t last forever, and with gentle guidance, puppies grow into dogs that understand boundaries. One day, those chewed-up shoes become just another memory of puppyhood and learning together.
