How do I get my Pug to stop chewing on furniture?

If your Pug is chewing on furniture, it’s likely their way of exploring, relieving boredom, or dealing with teething or stress. Stopping this behavior requires patience, consistency, and redirection. Here’s how to tackle it:

1. Understand the Cause

• Teething: If your Pug is a puppy, chewing is a normal part of teething as they soothe their gums.
• Boredom: Lack of mental or physical stimulation can lead to destructive chewing.
• Anxiety or Stress: Chewing can be a way for Pugs to cope with separation anxiety or nervous energy.
• Attention-Seeking: If they chew and you react (even negatively), they might do it just to get your attention.

2. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

• Offer a variety of safe chew toys or bones that are specifically designed for dogs.
• Rotate toys to keep them interesting.
• For teething puppies, try freezing a wet washcloth or giving them chilled teething toys to soothe their gums.

3. Redirect Their Chewing

• If you catch your Pug chewing on furniture, calmly redirect them to an appropriate chew toy. Reward them with praise or a treat when they chew the toy instead.

4. Use Deterrent Sprays

• Apply a pet-safe bitter spray to furniture to make it less appealing. Most dogs dislike the taste and will avoid chewing on sprayed areas.

5. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

• Make sure your Pug gets plenty of exercise and playtime every day. A tired Pug is less likely to chew on furniture out of boredom.
• Use puzzle toys or games to keep their mind engaged.

6. Supervise and Prevent Access

• Keep your Pug in a safe, puppy-proofed area when you can’t supervise them. Baby gates or a playpen can limit their access to furniture.
• Ensure they have toys available in their space to keep them occupied.

7. Address Anxiety

• If your Pug chews when left alone, they may have separation anxiety. Create a comforting routine, leave them with toys, or consider a calming aid like a pheromone diffuser.

8. Be Patient and Consistent

• Avoid punishing your Pug for chewing on furniture. Punishment can confuse them and make the problem worse.
• Instead, focus on rewarding positive behavior when they chew on the right things.

When to Seek Help

If the chewing persists despite your efforts, consult your vet to rule out medical issues or a professional trainer for additional guidance.

With consistency and understanding, your Pug will learn to focus their chewing energy on toys instead of your furniture. Hang in there—it’s all part of raising a quirky, lovable Pug! 😊