You walk into your living room to find the latest victim of your dog’s chewing spree. It could be your slippers, the TV remote, or even the leg of your favorite couch. That frustration is real. Here’s the truth: your dog isn’t “bad.” Chewing is as natural for dogs as breathing.

It’s not about stopping chewing altogether (that would be like stopping a bird from flying). The key is teaching your dog what is acceptable to chew and providing them with satisfying alternatives, like coffee wood dog chews.

Why Do Dogs Chew?

Understanding why your dog chews is the first step in solving the problem:

  • Puppy teething (3 to 6 months): New teeth can be painful, and chewing helps relieve the discomfort.
  • Boredom: Without stimulation, dogs will find their own entertainment—often at the expense of your furniture.
  • Stress or anxiety: Chewing releases tension, similar to humans biting their nails.
  • Natural instinct: Chewing helps dogs explore the world and strengthens their jaws.

Save Your Stuff: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Puppy-Proof First

If your sneakers are in plain sight, you can’t expect your dog not to chew them. Use baby gates to block off restricted areas and pick up tempting objects.

2. Supervise Closely

Keep an eye on your dog. If you see him sniffing the couch leg or other off-limits items, you can redirect him immediately.

3. Redirect, Don’t Punish

If you catch your dog chewing something inappropriate, calmly remove it and replace it with a better alternative. Coffee wood dog chews are ideal—they’re natural, durable, and far more appealing than furniture legs.

4. Offer Better Alternatives

Not all chew toys are created equal. My Labrador, Bear, destroyed plush toys within minutes, but a coffee wood chew kept him busy for hours. Here’s why:

  • Durability: Lasts weeks or months, even for power chewers.
  • Safety: Fibrous texture won’t splinter like sticks or antlers.
  • Natural appeal: Dogs love the earthy smell and texture.
  • Dental health bonus: Chewing helps naturally clean teeth.

5. Keep Chews Exciting

Rotate options—coffee wood, rubber toys, and dental chews—so your dog doesn’t get bored.

6. Use Taste Deterrents

For items that can’t be moved, apply a pet-safe bitter spray to discourage chewing.

7. Tire Them Out

A tired dog is a good dog. Physical exercise, training, and puzzle toys all help reduce destructive chewing.

What Happens When You’re Not Home?

Crates or puppy-proofed rooms are essential. Don’t allow your dog to roam unsupervised until you’re confident in their chewing habits.

Why Coffee Wood Dog Chews Are a Game Changer

Coffee wood chews stand out from other chew toys:

  • Natural: Made without chemicals or additives.
  • Mess-free: No stuffing or crumbs to clean up.
  • Durable: Strong enough for even the most determined chewers.

When I give Bear a coffee wood chew, he chews contentedly for about an hour and then naps. Since then, my furniture has remained safe.

Be Patient and Consistent

Training takes time. Bear destroyed several phone chargers before he learned the rules. Consistency is key—redirecting him to his coffee wood dog chew every time finally worked.

Remember, the goal isn’t to stop your dog from chewing entirely, but to ensure he chews the right items. With patience, safe alternatives, and consistent redirection, you can protect your belongings while giving your dog a healthy outlet for his natural instincts