How to Stop Destructive Behaviour in Dogs: Understanding the Cause and Rebuilding Calm at Home

Chewed-up shoes, shredded pillows, dug-up garden beds — if this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Destructive behaviour in dogs is one of the most common (and frustrating) problems owners face. And it’s not just a puppy issue — adult dogs can be just as inventive when bored, stressed, or left unsupervised.

The good news? Destruction isn’t a sign of a “bad” dog. It’s a signal that your dog’s needs aren’t being fully met — and with the right strategy, you can absolutely turn things around.

Why Dogs Destroy Things

Before you can fix destructive behaviour, it’s important to understand why it happens. Dogs don’t chew furniture or dig holes out of spite. They do it because their instincts, energy, or emotions need a safe outlet.

🦴 1. Chewing Is Natural

Chewing helps dogs relieve tension, exercise their jaws, and fulfil their instinct to shred and explore. If you don’t provide appropriate chew options, they’ll improvise with what’s available — like your shoes or sofa cushions.

🧠 2. Boredom and Lack of Stimulation

Dogs are intelligent, social animals who thrive on mental and physical engagement. When they spend long hours alone without exercise or enrichment, destruction often becomes their version of entertainment.

💔 3. Stress and Separation Anxiety

Dogs are pack animals, and many struggle when left alone. Anxiety and stress can trigger self-soothing behaviours such as chewing, digging, pacing, or tearing items apart.

How to Stop Destructive Behaviour

The key to success is a proactive approach: manage the environment, provide suitable outlets, and teach your dog what to do rather than punishing what not to do.

1. Set Your Dog Up for Success

When You’re Home:

Supervise and redirect. If your dog goes for something off-limits, calmly guide them to an appropriate chew or toy.

When You’re Away:

Use a crate, pen, or dog-proofed room. This isn’t punishment — it’s protection from temptation and a way to keep your dog feeling safe and structured.

2. Provide “Legal” Alternatives

Give your dog plenty of opportunities to chew and explore appropriately:

• Durable chew toys: Nylabone, KONG, or rubber toys.

• Edible chews: Bully sticks or dried tendons (supervised).

• Puzzle feeders: Keep them mentally busy and rewarded for calm focus.

Feeding meals through toys like a frozen KONG or Buster Cube adds enrichment while reducing boredom and anxiety.

3. Increase Freedom Gradually

Once your dog consistently chooses appropriate toys, start expanding their access to the home slowly. Continue rewarding calm behaviour and leaving enrichment items when you go out.

Additional Tips for Success

✅ Don’t punish after the fact — dogs won’t connect your anger to what happened earlier. It only builds fear.✅ Use deterrent sprays (like Bitter Apple) to make forbidden items less appealing.✅ Rotate toys weekly to keep them novel.✅ Offer a digging area for dogs who love to dig — it satisfies the instinct without ruining your garden.✅ Prioritise exercise — both physical and mental. A tired dog is a peaceful dog.

Recognising True Separation Anxiety

If destruction happens only when your dog is alone and includes pacing, drooling, or howling, it might be separation anxiety rather than boredom. This is treatable with gradual desensitisation and behaviour modification — and getting help early makes recovery faster.

Need Professional Help?

If you’re struggling to stop destructive behaviour or your dog becomes anxious when left alone, structured training can make a world of difference.

You can follow my step-by-step plan here 👉 Training Plan for Destructive Dogs

It’s a virtual, science-based program that teaches you exactly how to rebuild calm, confidence, and independence in your dog — from identifying triggers to teaching healthy coping habits.

Final Thoughts

Destructive behaviour isn’t about defiance — it’s communication. Your dog is saying, “I need help to handle my energy or emotions.” When you meet those needs with structure, stimulation, and understanding, the destruction fades and harmony returns.

Remember: every chewed-up shoe is an opportunity to learn, adjust, and strengthen your bond. With patience, leadership, and the right approach, your dog can go from chaos to calm — and your home can stay beautifully intact.

Destructive behaviour in dogs - how to fix it

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

🐾 Why is my dog destroying things when left alone?

Most dogs destroy items when left alone because they feel anxious, bored, or under-stimulated. Separation anxiety and lack of exercise are leading causes. Try leaving enrichment toys and gradually increasing alone time.

🐶 How do I stop my dog from chewing furniture?

Redirect chewing to appropriate toys, use deterrent sprays, and supervise closely. Praise and reward when your dog chews the right thing — not just when they stop the wrong one.

🏠 Can I leave my dog out of the crate if they destroy things?

Not at first. Use a crate or safe room to prevent mistakes until your dog earns freedom through calm behaviour and consistency.

🧸 What are the best toys for destructive dogs?

Look for durable chew toys like KONG Extreme, Nylabone Power Chew, or treat-dispensing puzzles. Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty and engagement.

💡 My dog only destroys things when I’m at work — what should I do?

This could be separation-related distress. Gradually build tolerance to alone time, leave enrichment, and consider working through a structured plan like my Training Plan for Destructive Dogs for a guided approach.