How do I get my dog to stop biting his kennel?

Waking up to find your dog’s bed shredded, stuffing scattered across the living room floor—it’s a scenario many new pet parents know too well. That favorite bed you picked out, soft and cozy, now looks like a battle scene, and you’re left wondering if you’ll ever find a solution. It’s frustrating, but rest assured, this behavior is rarely about spite; most dogs chew their beds for reasons rooted in their natural instincts or needs.

Understanding why your dog is targeting their bed is the first step. Puppies between 4 and 6 months often chew to relieve teething pain—their gums are sore, and gnawing feels good. For adult dogs, boredom is a common culprit. If they’re left alone for long hours without stimulation, that bed becomes an easy outlet for pent-up energy. Separation anxiety plays a role too; a friend’s golden retriever, left alone while she worked, started chewing his bed because the familiar scent helped ease his stress.

The good news is there are simple, kind ways to redirect this behavior. Start by offering better alternatives. A durable rubber chew toy or a frozen Kong stuffed with peanut butter can satisfy that urge to gnaw. Pair this with more exercise—even a 20-minute walk around the neighborhood before work can burn off energy that might otherwise go into destroying the bed. Remember, in many areas, keeping your dog active also means being a good neighbor—no one likes a restless pup barking (or chewing) nonstop in an apartment.

Positive reinforcement goes a long way here. When you catch your dog lying calmly on their bed instead of chewing, offer a treat and lots of praise. Phrases like “Good job!” in an upbeat tone work wonders. Never scold or hit—punishment only increases anxiety, which often makes the chewing worse. It’s not just kinder; it’s more effective. Veterinarians and trainers across the country agree: trust and consistency build better behavior than fear.

Don’t forget the basics of responsible pet care, which tie into better behavior. Keeping up with vaccinations isn’t just the law in most places—it keeps your dog healthy, and a healthy dog is less likely to act out. Similarly, regular check-ups can rule out issues like dental pain that might make chewing more tempting. And yes, always clean up after your dog on walks—being a responsible owner sets the tone for a happy, well-adjusted pet.

With time, patience, and the right approach, that shredded bed will become a thing of the past. Your dog isn’t trying to misbehave—they’re just communicating a need. Meet that need with understanding, and you’ll both be much happier.