Fixing destructive chewing in German Shepherd puppies
Listen up. German Shepherd puppies are smart, energetic, and yes—they chew. But when that chewing turns destructive—ruining your shoes, furniture, or worse—you need to step in hard and fast. After a decade as a vet and running a sanctuary for stray dogs and cats, I’ve seen how ignoring destructive chewing leads to bigger problems down the line.
You’re the one responsible. If you don’t take charge now, your pup will keep wrecking your stuff and develop bad habits that stick. Here’s how to fix it right.
Understand Why German Shepherd Puppies Chew
German Shepherds are high-energy, intelligent dogs. They chew to explore, relieve teething pain, and fight boredom. If you don’t meet their needs, they find their own outlets—which often means your stuff gets destroyed.
Step 1: Puppy-Proof Your Home
Start by removing anything valuable, dangerous, or chew-worthy from your puppy’s reach. If it’s off-limits, keep it out of sight and out of mind. That’s your first line of defense.
Step 2: Provide Durable Chew Toys
Give your German Shepherd puppy plenty of tough, safe chew toys. Rotate toys to keep interest high. When your pup starts chewing on the wrong thing, redirect immediately to a toy.
Step 3: Channel Their Energy
German Shepherds need serious mental and physical exercise. Long walks, obedience training, puzzle toys—use them all. A tired pup is a less destructive pup.
Step 4: Use Positive Reinforcement
When your puppy chews the right stuff, praise and reward immediately. Make it clear that good chewing behavior gets treats, pets, and attention. Positive reinforcement beats punishment every time.
Step 5: Correct Bad Chewing Calmly and Consistently
If you catch your pup chewing something off-limits, say “No” firmly but calmly. Redirect them to an appropriate toy. Don’t yell or punish—it only makes your puppy anxious and more likely to hide bad behavior.
Step 6: Help With Teething Pain
Provide chilled or vet-approved teething toys to ease the discomfort. Never give anything that could harm your puppy’s teeth or digestion.
Bottom Line
Destructive chewing in German Shepherd puppies is normal—but it’s your job to manage it. Puppy-proof your home, offer durable toys, meet their exercise needs, and use consistent positive training.
Take control now and save your belongings—and your sanity. German Shepherds are brilliant dogs; teach them right, and they’ll repay you with a lifetime of loyalty.
