Why Do Dogs Chew on Shoes?

It’s not a surprise if your dog starts chewing up your shoes. There are many reasons your fury friend could be using your shoes as chew toys. This behavior can be very frustrating, so we have created a guide to help you understand and prevent shoe chewing.

A Teething Issue

The chewing is an instinctive behavior to get relief from those sore gums. The puppy teeth stage starts at about 2 to 3 weeks of age when the first milk teeth start emerging. By the time the puppy is 6 to 8 weeks, he should have a complete set of 28 teeth. Afterward, the puppy’s milk teeth start to fall out and the permanent teeth start coming through up until when the puppy is 6 to 8 months.

It’s normal for a pup to want to chew to get relief from those sore gums. A pair of shoes is their perfect solution. Remember keep shoes away from where a pup can get access to them. It’s also important to have plenty of puppy chew toys in your home.

Relief from Boredom

Maybe you left your four-legged companion alone for a couple hours and he didn’t know what else to do, so he started to chew on what’s available. It’s up to us pet parents to provide them with plenty of activities.

Attention Seeking Behavior

When you come home from work your dog is most likely expecting attention from you. If you’re too busy to play with your dog, walk him or give him attention, he’ll likely do anything that gets you to look at him or talk to him. Chewing a shoe is a good way to grab your attention. If this happens all too often, instead of scolding your dog, consider listening to your dog’s plea for help.

Always remember to keep shoes out of your dog’s way, and to have plenty of chew toys and bones laying around your house.

Have you had a shoe chewer? What did you do to stop your dog from destroying your favorite pair of tennis shoes?