What Can I Put on Walls to Stop Dog Chewing? A Practical Guide for Frustrated Dog Owners

If you’ve ever walked into a room only to find your dog gnawing on the corner of your wall or baseboard, you know how frustrating (and expensive) it can be. Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, but when it’s directed at your walls, it’s a problem that needs to be addressed—fast.

The good news is, there are plenty of ways to protect your walls and redirect your dog’s chewing habits.

Let’s dive into some practical solutions to save your walls and keep your pup happy.

Why Do Dogs Chew on Walls?

Before we talk about solutions, it’s important to understand why your dog might be chewing on your walls in the first place. Here are some common reasons:

• Teething: Puppies chew to relieve the discomfort of teething, just like human babies.

• Boredom: Dogs who are under-stimulated or left alone for long periods may chew out of boredom.

• Anxiety: Chewing can be a coping mechanism for dogs experiencing stress or separation anxiety.

• Curiosity: Dogs explore the world with their mouths, and sometimes that means tasting things they shouldn’t.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: In rare cases, dogs may chew on walls or other non-food items due to a lack of certain nutrients.

Understanding the root cause of your dog’s chewing will help you choose the most effective solution. Now, let’s get to the practical steps.

Step 1: Protect Your Walls with Physical Barriers

The first line of defense is to make your walls less accessible (and less appealing) to your dog. Here are some ways to do that:

• Bitter Sprays: Apply a pet-safe bitter spray to the areas your dog likes to chew. These sprays have a taste that dogs find unpleasant, which can deter them from chewing. Just make sure to test a small area first to ensure it won’t damage your walls.

• Furniture or Barriers: Place furniture, baby gates, or other barriers in front of the walls your dog targets. This physically blocks them from reaching the area.

• Protective Panels: Use clear acrylic panels or temporary wall coverings (like adhesive plastic sheets) to protect vulnerable spots like corners and baseboards. These are especially useful if your dog is a repeat offender.

• Vinyl Molding: Install chew-resistant vinyl molding along the baseboards. It’s more durable than wood and less tempting for your dog to sink their teeth into.

Step 2: Provide Appropriate Chew Alternatives

If your dog is chewing out of boredom or teething, the best solution is to give them something better to chew on. Here’s how:

• Chew Toys: Invest in high-quality chew toys designed for your dog’s size and chewing style. Look for durable options like rubber toys, nylon bones, or antlers.

• Interactive Toys: Toys that dispense treats or require problem-solving can keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated, reducing their urge to chew on walls.

• Frozen Treats: For teething puppies, try freezing a wet washcloth or a dog-safe chew toy. The cold can soothe their gums and provide a satisfying chewing experience.

• Rotate Toys: Keep things interesting by rotating your dog’s toys every few days. This prevents them from getting bored with the same old options.

Step 3: Address the Root Cause of Chewing

If your dog’s chewing is driven by anxiety, boredom, or another underlying issue, you’ll need to tackle the root cause to see lasting results.

• Exercise: Make sure your dog is getting enough physical activity. A tired dog is less likely to chew out of boredom or excess energy. Aim for daily walks, playtime, or even a game of fetch in the backyard.

• Mental Stimulation: Challenge your dog’s brain with puzzle toys, training sessions, or scent games. Mental stimulation can be just as tiring as physical exercise.

• Reduce Anxiety: If your dog chews due to stress or separation anxiety, consider working with a trainer or behaviorist to address the issue. In some cases, calming supplements or anxiety wraps may help.

• Supervise and Redirect: Keep an eye on your dog, especially during the training phase. If you catch them chewing on the wall, calmly redirect them to an appropriate chew toy and reward them for making the switch.

Step 4: Make Chewing on Walls Less Rewarding

Dogs repeat behaviors that are rewarding to them. If chewing on walls feels good (or at least doesn’t feel bad), they’ll keep doing it. Here’s how to make wall-chewing less appealing:

• Use Deterrents: In addition to bitter sprays, you can try natural deterrents like citrus peels or vinegar. Dogs generally dislike the smell and taste of these substances.

• Interrupt the Behavior: If you catch your dog in the act, interrupt them with a firm “no” or a clap. Then, redirect them to an appropriate chew toy.

• Avoid Punishment: Yelling or punishing your dog after the fact won’t help. Dogs don’t connect punishment with past behavior, so it will only confuse or scare them.

Step 5: Repair and Prevent Damage

If your dog has already done some damage, it’s important to repair the walls and take steps to prevent future incidents.

• Patch and Paint: Use spackle or wood filler to repair chewed areas, then sand and repaint. For baseboards, consider replacing damaged sections if necessary.

• Cover Damage Temporarily: If you’re not ready to make permanent repairs, use temporary solutions like adhesive wall patches or decorative tape to cover chewed spots.

• Monitor Progress: Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior as you implement these solutions. If they continue to chew despite your efforts, it may be time to consult a professional trainer or veterinarian.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with a dog who chews on walls can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can protect your home and help your dog develop healthier habits. Remember, chewing is a natural behavior, so the goal isn’t to stop it entirely—it’s to redirect it to appropriate outlets.

Be patient with your pup (and yourself) as you work through this process. Training takes time, but with consistency and a little creativity, you’ll see progress. And don’t forget to celebrate the small wins along the way—every time your dog chooses a toy over the wall, it’s a step in the right direction.

Here’s to saving your walls and keeping your dog happy and healthy!