How to train a dog not to gnaw on furniture at home

That sinking feeling of coming home to find your favorite chair leg gnawed beyond recognition or a new cushion ripped apart is a rite of passage for many new dog owners, especially those in apartments where space and furniture are precious. Before frustration sets in, it’s vital to understand that this isn’t an act of vengeance. For a puppy, chewing is a biological drive to soothe aching gums during teething. For an adult dog, it’s often a sign of boredom, excess energy, or anxiety. The goal of training isn’t to eliminate chewing—that’s impossible—but to powerfully redirect it onto approved items while making your furniture the most boring option in the house.

The entire process hinges on two pillars: management and redirection. Management means setting your dog up for success by preventing access to temptations. This is your first and most important step. Use baby gates to section off rooms, or consider an exercise pen (x-pen) to create a puppy-proofed zone with a comfy bed and their toys when you can’t actively supervise. For determined chewers, a taste deterrent spray like bitter apple can be a useful temporary barrier on wooden furniture legs. But management alone isn’t a solution; it just buys you time to teach the right behavior. This is where redirection comes in. Always have a stash of high-value chew toys within arm’s reach—think bully sticks, frozen Kongs, or rubber chew toys. The very second you see your dog sniffing or mouthing the furniture, calmly interrupt with a neutral “Ah-ah,” and immediately present the fantastic alternative. The moment their jaws close on the toy, light up with praise and affection. You’re teaching them that this is what gets your positive attention.

This positive, proactive approach is the cornerstone of modern, ethical dog training in the U.S. and EU. Physically punishing a dog for chewing, whether by rubbing their nose in it or scolding them after the fact, is not only ineffective but culturally unacceptable. It destroys trust and can create a fearful animal who simply learns to chew in secret. Your responsibility extends into your community. The increased exercise needed to tire out your chewer means more walks. Before you hit the local park in Seattle or Boston, ensure your dog’s rabies vaccination is up-to-date and documented—this is a non-negotiable legal requirement for public safety. And on every single walk, carrying poop bags and meticulously cleaning up after your pet is your absolute civic duty; it’s a simple act that maintains community goodwill and avoids substantial fines.

For those navigating this in an apartment, the stakes are higher. A dog left to chew can not only destroy your security deposit but also create noise that disturbs neighbors, leading to complaints. Proactive management with gates and pens is your best defense for maintaining peace. Your community etiquette is also part of the training process. A well-exercised dog is a quieter, calmer dog. When in shared spaces like elevators or lobbies, keep your leashed dog close to prevent them from jumping on or mouthing at neighbors, using it as an opportunity to practice a “sit” or “watch me” command. By combining smart management, consistent redirection, and responsible ownership, you’re not just saving your furniture; you’re building a thoughtful and well-mannered canine companion.