Image Source: i.redd.it
Solved: Why Does My Dog Bite His Bed and How to Stop It?
Why does your dog bite his bed? Dogs often bite their beds for many reasons. These include being a puppy, feeling bored, being anxious, or having too much energy. Knowing the reason is the first step. How to stop dog eating bed? You can stop it by giving your dog good chew toys, more playtime, and solving any anxiety. This post will help you learn about dog destructive chewing bed and how to make it stop.
Deciphering Why Dogs Chew Their Beds
Dogs chew their beds for many reasons. It is often a normal dog action. But sometimes, it means a problem. Let’s look at why your dog might be chewing its bed.
Puppy Chewing Habits
Puppies chew a lot. This is normal. There are two main reasons for this.
Teething Pain
Puppies are like babies. They get new teeth. This can hurt their gums. Chewing helps ease the pain. Your puppy will look for anything to chew. This often includes their bed. Puppy chewing bed reasons often start with teething.
- Signs of teething:
- More drool
- Red or swollen gums
- Chewing more often
- Loss of baby teeth
Exploring the World
Puppies learn about the world with their mouths. They pick things up. They taste them. They chew them. This helps them learn what things are. Their bed is right there. It is easy for them to chew. This is a common way for them to explore.
Lack of Activity and Boredom
Dogs need things to do. They need exercise. They need mental work. If they don’t get enough, they get bored. A bored dog will find its own fun. This often means chewing things it should not.
Not Enough Physical Exercise
Dogs need to run and play. How much they need depends on their breed. A high-energy dog needs a lot of exercise. If they don’t get it, they have too much energy. This energy can turn into chewing. Boredom solutions for dog bed destruction often start with more walks.
- Examples:
- A husky needs a lot of running.
- A bulldog needs less, but still needs walks.
- Daily walks help burn off energy.
Not Enough Mental Stimulation
Dogs also need to think. They like to solve problems. Puzzle toys are great for this. Training sessions also help. If their minds are not busy, they get bored. This boredom can lead to chewing their bed.
- Ideas for mental work:
- Puzzle feeders
- Hide-and-seek games
- Learning new tricks
- Sniffing games
Feeling Worried or Anxious
Just like people, dogs can feel anxious. This can be a big reason for chewing. Chewing can make them feel better. It calms them down.
Separation Distress
Some dogs get very upset when you leave. This is called separation anxiety. They might chew to cope with the stress. Their bed smells like you. This might be why they chew it. It can be a way to feel close to you. Dog anxiety chewing bedding is a very common issue for dogs left alone.
- Signs of separation distress:
- Chewing on furniture, doors, or beds when alone
- Pacing or whining
- Peeing or pooping inside the house
- Excessive barking
Fear or Phobias
Loud noises can scare dogs. Fireworks or thunderstorms are common fears. New people or pets can also scare them. When scared, some dogs chew to feel safe. Their bed might be their safe spot. Chewing helps them deal with the fear.
- Things that cause fear:
- Loud noises
- New places
- Changes in routine
- Being alone
General Stress
Any big change can stress a dog. Moving to a new home is one example. A new baby or pet can also cause stress. These changes can make dogs feel unsure. Chewing can be a way to relieve this general stress. Stress chewing dog bed often happens during times of big change.
- Stress signs:
- Shaking
- Hiding
- Panting
- Changes in eating habits
Behavioral Patterns
Sometimes, chewing is just a learned behavior. Or it might be a habit.
Attention-Seeking
Dogs love attention. If they chew their bed, and you rush to them, they learn something. They learn that chewing gets your attention. Even if it is bad attention, it is still attention. They might keep doing it to get you to look at them.
Learned Habit
If a dog chewed its bed for one reason, like boredom, it might just stick. It becomes a habit. They do it even when they are not bored anymore. This habit can be hard to break. It needs patient training.
Instinctual Nests and Shredding
Dogs have instincts. They come from wolves. Wolves make nests. They dig and shred things to make a comfy spot. This is especially true for female dogs. They might shred their bed to make it more comfortable. This is a natural why dogs shred their beds. They are just making a comfy den.
- Nesting signs:
- Digging at the bed
- Paw at the bed
- Arranging the bed in a circle
- Shredding fabric
Medical Issues
Less common, but possible, are medical reasons. A dog might chew its bed because it feels bad.
Pain or Discomfort
If a dog is in pain, it might chew to cope. Joint pain, tooth pain, or stomach pain can make a dog anxious. The chewing helps them. It is a way to self-soothe. Always check with a vet if you think your dog is in pain.
- Signs of pain:
- Limping
- Whining
- Not wanting to be touched
- Changes in eating or sleeping
Nutritional Deficiencies
Very rarely, a dog might chew things that are not food because it needs something. This is called pica. It means they eat things like dirt or fabric. This can be a sign of a lack of nutrients. Always talk to your vet about this. This is very rare with good dog food.
The Risks of Bed Chewing
A dog chewing its bed is not just annoying. It can be dangerous.
Dog Chewing Bed Stuffing Dangers
The stuffing inside beds can be very harmful. It is not made to be eaten.
Choking Hazards
Small pieces of stuffing can get stuck in a dog’s throat. This can block their breathing. It is an emergency. They might choke.
Blockages in the Gut
If a dog eats a lot of stuffing, it can block their stomach or intestines. This is very serious. The stuffing can form a ball. It can stop food from moving through. This needs a vet. Sometimes, surgery is needed. Dog chewing bed stuffing dangers are real and can be life-threatening.
- Signs of a blockage:
- Vomiting
- Not eating
- Pain in the belly
- Not pooping
- Being very tired
Toxic Materials
Some bed materials might have chemicals. These can be bad for your dog if eaten. Always check what the bed is made of.
How to Stop Your Dog From Chewing His Bed
Stopping bed chewing needs a plan. You need to know why they chew. Then, you can try different things. How to stop dog eating bed is about giving them better choices and solving the root cause.
Increase Exercise and Mental Work
This is often the first step. A tired dog is a good dog.
More Physical Play
Give your dog enough exercise every day. This means walks, runs, and playing fetch. A tired dog is less likely to chew out of boredom. Know your dog’s breed needs.
- Action steps:
- Daily walks (at least 30-60 minutes, more for high-energy breeds)
- Running in a safe park
- Playing fetch in the yard
- Dog park visits for social play
Engage Their Brain
Use puzzle toys. These make your dog work for food. Training sessions also use their brain. Even 10-15 minutes of training a day can help a lot.
- Action steps:
- Food puzzle toys (e.g., Kongs filled with peanut butter)
- Snuffle mats
- Interactive feeders
- Teaching new tricks
- Obedience training
Offer Proper Chew Toys
Give your dog good things to chew. Make sure they are safe and fun.
Provide Safe and Durable Chews
Always have a variety of safe chew toys. They should be strong. They should not break into small pieces. Choose toys that are right for your dog’s size and chewing style.
- Good chew toy types:
- Hard rubber toys (e.g., Kongs)
- Nylon chew bones
- Dental chews (check ingredients)
- Benebones
- Bully sticks (supervise these)
Rotate Toys
Change up the toys you give your dog. This keeps them new and exciting. If they see the same toys all the time, they might get bored.
Training and Behavior Adjustment
Teach your dog what to chew and what not to chew.
Positive Reinforcement
Reward your dog for chewing the right things. When they chew their toy, praise them. Give them a treat. This teaches them that chewing toys is good.
- Steps:
- Catch them chewing a toy.
- Say “Good chew!”
- Give a small, tasty treat.
- Pet them gently.
Redirection
If you see your dog chewing their bed, do not yell. Gently take the bed away. Give them a good chew toy instead. Praise them when they chew the toy. This is redirection.
Crate Training Benefits
A crate can be a safe place for your dog. If your dog chews its bed when left alone, a crate can help. Make sure the crate is the right size. Make it cozy with a blanket, not a bed they can destroy. Only put a bed in a crate if you are sure they won’t chew it.
- Tips for crate training:
- Make it a positive place.
- Never use it for punishment.
- Start with short times.
- Gradually increase time.
Managing Anxiety
If anxiety is the cause, you need to help your dog feel safe.
Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning
For separation anxiety, you can train your dog slowly. Start with leaving for very short times. Give them a special treat or toy only when you leave. Slowly make the time longer. This helps them learn that being alone is okay. This is called desensitization.
- Example for separation anxiety:
- Walk to the door, come back in.
- Open the door, close it.
- Step outside for 10 seconds, come back.
- Slowly increase the time.
Creating a Safe Space
Give your dog a calm, quiet place to relax. This can be their crate or a specific room. Make it their safe haven. This helps with general stress.
Vet Consultation for Medication
For severe anxiety, a vet might suggest medicine. This is often used with behavior training. It helps calm the dog enough to learn new ways to act.
Deterrents and Protection
Sometimes you need to protect the bed itself.
Taste Deterrents
You can spray a bitter-tasting spray on the bed. Dogs do not like the taste. This can stop them from chewing. Make sure it is safe for pets. Always test it first on a small area. Do not use harmful sprays.
- Examples:
- Bitter Apple spray
- Grannick’s Bitter Apple
Supervision
Watch your dog, especially if they are known chewers. If you cannot watch them, put them in a safe space. A crate or a room with no bad chew items works well.
Best Chew Proof Dog Beds
Investing in a tough bed can save you money and worry. Best chew proof dog beds are made from strong materials. They often have no stuffing or very tough covers.
-
Types of chew-proof beds:
- Elevated Beds: These have a metal or PVC frame with a strong fabric cover. There is no stuffing. Dogs often cannot get a good grip to chew them.
- K9 Ballistics Beds: These are known for being very strong. They use rip-stop ballistic nylon. They are often guaranteed against chewing.
- Thick Canvas or Denim Beds: Some beds use very thick, durable fabrics. They might not be fully chew-proof but are much tougher than normal beds.
- Aluminum Frame Beds: These are very sturdy and have no fabric for the dog to chew directly.
- Beds with Hidden Zippers: Some beds have zippers tucked away. This makes it harder for dogs to find and chew them.
-
Considerations when buying:
- Material: Look for ballistic nylon, heavy-duty canvas, PVC, or metal.
- Design: Elevated beds are often best for power chewers.
- Warranty: Many chew-proof beds offer a chew-proof warranty.
- Washable: Make sure it is easy to clean.
Dietary Check-Up
If you suspect a nutritional issue, talk to your vet. They can check your dog’s diet. They can suggest changes or supplements. This is rare but important to rule out.
When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, you need extra help.
Consult Your Veterinarian
Always start with your vet. They can rule out any health problems. Pain or other issues can cause chewing. Your vet can check if your dog is okay. They can also give advice on anxiety or diet.
Work with a Certified Dog Trainer or Behaviorist
If the chewing is severe, or you cannot stop it, get a professional. A certified dog trainer can help with behavior. A veterinary behaviorist can help with serious anxiety or fear. They can make a special plan for your dog. Canine behavioral problems chewing can be complex. A pro can help.
- When to get help:
- Chewing is constant.
- Your dog is hurting themselves.
- Your dog has severe anxiety signs.
- Nothing you try works.
How a Behaviorist Helps
A behaviorist looks at all parts of your dog’s life. They look at health, diet, daily routine, and past events. They use this info to create a plan. This plan might include:
* Changes to routines.
* Training exercises.
* Ways to reduce stress.
* Possible medicine.
Making a Lasting Change
Stopping bed chewing is a process. It takes time and patience. Be consistent. Always reward good behavior. Never punish your dog for chewing. This can make them more anxious. Focus on giving them better choices and solving the real reason they chew. Your dog will learn. Your bed will be safe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it normal for a puppy to chew its bed?
Yes, it is very normal. Puppies chew because of teething and to learn about their world. It is part of being a young dog.
What can I spray on my dog’s bed to stop chewing?
You can use a bitter-tasting spray made for pets, like Bitter Apple. Test it first. Make sure it is safe for your dog.
Why does my dog only chew his bed at night?
Your dog might chew his bed at night if he is bored when you are sleeping. Or he might be anxious or stressed by sounds at night. Make sure he is tired before bed. Give him a safe chew toy in his crate or sleeping area.
Can a dog get sick from eating bed stuffing?
Yes, a dog can get very sick. Eating bed stuffing can cause choking. It can also cause a blockage in their stomach or intestines. This is serious and needs a vet right away.
What kind of bed should I get for a dog that chews everything?
Get a chew-proof bed. Elevated beds or beds made with ballistic nylon are good choices. Look for beds with a chew-proof guarantee.
My dog never chewed his bed before, but now he does. What changed?
Sudden chewing can mean something has changed. It could be a new routine, stress, pain, or boredom. Check for new noises, changes in the home, or signs of pain. See your vet to rule out health issues.
How long does it take to stop a dog from chewing their bed?
It depends on the dog and the reason for chewing. For puppies, it often stops after teething. For anxiety or boredom, it can take weeks or months of consistent effort. Be patient and keep trying.