How to stop a Bulldog puppy from chewing
Listen, Bulldog puppies chew. It’s what they do — especially when teething hits. But let me be clear: chewing isn’t a free-for-all. You can’t just let your puppy destroy your stuff and call it cute. If you don’t set limits now, you’ll have a big dog who thinks your furniture, shoes, and everything else is theirs to tear apart. That stops here.
Understand Why Bulldog Puppies Chew
First, get this straight: chewing is natural. Puppies explore the world with their mouths, they’re sore from teething, and chewing helps relieve that discomfort. But chewing becomes a problem when it targets your belongings.
Your Bulldog puppy chews because:
- They’re teething and their gums hurt.
- They’re bored or understimulated.
- They’re curious and exploring.
- They want attention or are anxious.
Knowing the why helps you deal with it.
Provide Appropriate Chew Toys — No Exceptions
If your Bulldog puppy is going to chew, make sure it’s on the right things.
- Keep a variety of chew toys handy — rubber, nylon, and treat-dispensing toys work well.
- When you catch them chewing on something they shouldn’t, interrupt calmly and immediately redirect to a toy.
- Praise your puppy when they chew the right things.
- Never use your hands or feet as chew toys — you don’t want to teach them to bite people.
Make the toys more interesting than your furniture. That’s your job.
Puppy-Proof Your Home
Here’s the no-nonsense truth: if your stuff is in reach, your puppy will chew it. Don’t expect magic.
- Put shoes, remote controls, wires, and valuables out of reach.
- Use baby gates or crates to limit access to problem areas.
- Remove temptations so your puppy learns what’s off-limits.
Control the environment, control the chewing.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation Are Non-Negotiable
Bulldog puppies have energy. When they don’t burn it off, they chew to entertain themselves.
- Give your puppy daily physical exercise — short walks, playtime, and supervised outdoor time.
- Provide mental stimulation through training sessions, puzzle toys, and interactive games.
- A tired puppy is a well-behaved puppy.
Don’t skip this — chewing problems worsen with boredom.
Use Taste Deterrents When Needed
If your Bulldog puppy fixates on a particular object, use safe taste deterrents.
- Apply bitter apple spray or other pet-safe repellents on furniture legs, shoes, or other targets.
- Always follow product instructions and test a small area first.
- Combine deterrents with positive redirection to toys.
This teaches your puppy that some things aren’t tasty — literally.
Stay Consistent — Everyone on the Same Page
Chewing training only works when everyone enforces the rules.
- Make sure all family members use the same commands and redirection techniques.
- Don’t give mixed signals by allowing chewing sometimes but not others.
- Consistency builds good habits fast.
Remember, puppies thrive on routine and clear expectations.
Crate Training Can Help Manage Chewing
A crate isn’t punishment — it’s a safe space for your Bulldog puppy.
- Use crate training to prevent unsupervised chewing when you’re not home.
- Make the crate comfortable with toys and bedding.
- Don’t leave your puppy in the crate too long — frequent breaks and exercise are essential.
This helps protect your belongings and teaches discipline.
When to Call in the Pros
If chewing gets out of control or linked to anxiety, consult a professional trainer or veterinary behaviorist.
Final Word from the Vet
Bulldog puppies chew — that’s normal. But destroying your home? Not acceptable. Give them the right outlets, control their environment, exercise their bodies and minds, and be consistent.
You set the rules — no exceptions. Stay firm, stay calm, and your Bulldog puppy will learn what’s theirs to chew and what’s off limits.
Understand Why Bulldog Puppies Chew
First, get this straight: chewing is natural. Puppies explore the world with their mouths, they’re sore from teething, and chewing helps relieve that discomfort. But chewing becomes a problem when it targets your belongings.
Your Bulldog puppy chews because:
- They’re teething and their gums hurt.
- They’re bored or understimulated.
- They’re curious and exploring.
- They want attention or are anxious.
Knowing the why helps you deal with it.
Provide Appropriate Chew Toys — No Exceptions
If your Bulldog puppy is going to chew, make sure it’s on the right things.
- Keep a variety of chew toys handy — rubber, nylon, and treat-dispensing toys work well.
- When you catch them chewing on something they shouldn’t, interrupt calmly and immediately redirect to a toy.
- Praise your puppy when they chew the right things.
- Never use your hands or feet as chew toys — you don’t want to teach them to bite people.
Make the toys more interesting than your furniture. That’s your job.
Puppy-Proof Your Home
Here’s the no-nonsense truth: if your stuff is in reach, your puppy will chew it. Don’t expect magic.
- Put shoes, remote controls, wires, and valuables out of reach.
- Use baby gates or crates to limit access to problem areas.
- Remove temptations so your puppy learns what’s off-limits.
Control the environment, control the chewing.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation Are Non-Negotiable
Bulldog puppies have energy. When they don’t burn it off, they chew to entertain themselves.
- Give your puppy daily physical exercise — short walks, playtime, and supervised outdoor time.
- Provide mental stimulation through training sessions, puzzle toys, and interactive games.
- A tired puppy is a well-behaved puppy.
Don’t skip this — chewing problems worsen with boredom.
Use Taste Deterrents When Needed
If your Bulldog puppy fixates on a particular object, use safe taste deterrents.
- Apply bitter apple spray or other pet-safe repellents on furniture legs, shoes, or other targets.
- Always follow product instructions and test a small area first.
- Combine deterrents with positive redirection to toys.
This teaches your puppy that some things aren’t tasty — literally.
Stay Consistent — Everyone on the Same Page
Chewing training only works when everyone enforces the rules.
- Make sure all family members use the same commands and redirection techniques.
- Don’t give mixed signals by allowing chewing sometimes but not others.
- Consistency builds good habits fast.
Remember, puppies thrive on routine and clear expectations.
Crate Training Can Help Manage Chewing
A crate isn’t punishment — it’s a safe space for your Bulldog puppy.
- Use crate training to prevent unsupervised chewing when you’re not home.
- Make the crate comfortable with toys and bedding.
- Don’t leave your puppy in the crate too long — frequent breaks and exercise are essential.
This helps protect your belongings and teaches discipline.
When to Call in the Pros
If chewing gets out of control or linked to anxiety, consult a professional trainer or veterinary behaviorist.
Final Word from the Vet
Bulldog puppies chew — that’s normal. But destroying your home? Not acceptable. Give them the right outlets, control their environment, exercise their bodies and minds, and be consistent.
You set the rules — no exceptions. Stay firm, stay calm, and your Bulldog puppy will learn what’s theirs to chew and what’s off limits.
