Shih Tzus are affectionate and playful dogs, but sometimes they develop destructive behaviors, such as chewing on furniture, shoes, or household objects. While chewing and biting are natural instincts for dogs, excessive destruction can become a problem if left unchecked. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior and implementing the right training techniques will help protect your home while ensuring your Shih Tzu stays happy and mentally stimulated.
To stop your Shih Tzu from destroying furniture and objects, it’s important to address the root causes of the behavior, provide appropriate outlets for chewing, and use positive reinforcement training. In this guide, you’ll learn why your Shih Tzu is chewing, how to redirect their behavior, and practical strategies to keep your home safe from destruction.
Why Does a Shih Tzu Chew on Furniture and Objects?
Destructive chewing can be caused by various factors, including boredom, teething, anxiety, or lack of proper training. Identifying the underlying cause will help you find the best solution.
1. Teething in Puppies
Shih Tzu puppies go through a teething phase between 3 and 6 months old, during which their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth grow in. This process can cause gum discomfort, leading them to chew on anything they can find.
2. Boredom and Lack of Mental Stimulation
A bored Shih Tzu may resort to chewing as a way to entertain themselves and release pent-up energy. Since Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs, they need mental and physical activities to keep them engaged.
3. Separation Anxiety
Shih Tzus are companion dogs and can develop separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. Chewing is a common coping mechanism for anxious dogs trying to self-soothe.
4. Lack of Proper Training and Boundaries
If a Shih Tzu is not taught what is acceptable to chew on, they may assume that all objects are fair game. Without clear rules and training, they won’t understand that furniture, shoes, and household items are off-limits.
5. Attention-Seeking Behavior
Some dogs chew on objects as a way to get their owner’s attention, especially if they notice that chewing results in a reaction, even if it’s negative.
6. Hunger or Nutritional Deficiencies
In some cases, dogs may chew on objects if they are hungry or lacking essential nutrients in their diet. If your Shih Tzu is chewing on non-food items, it’s worth evaluating their diet.
How to Stop a Shih Tzu from Destroying Furniture and Objects
Once you understand why your Shih Tzu is chewing, you can take proactive steps to redirect their behavior and teach them better habits.
1. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys
The best way to prevent destructive chewing is to offer your Shih Tzu plenty of safe and engaging chew toys. Choose toys that match their chewing style and preferences.
- For teething puppies: Soft rubber chew toys, frozen washcloths, or teething rings.
- For adult Shih Tzus: Durable rubber toys, stuffed toys with squeakers, or edible dental chews.
- For anxious chewers: Puzzle toys that dispense treats can keep them distracted.
Rotate their toys regularly to keep their interest and prevent boredom.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement Training
Whenever your Shih Tzu chews on the right things, reward them with praise, treats, or playtime.
- If you catch them chewing furniture or an inappropriate object, calmly redirect them to a chew toy.
- Say “no” in a firm but calm tone, remove the object, and offer a chew toy instead.
- When they start chewing the toy, immediately reward them with praise or a small treat.
3. Supervise and Limit Access to Problem Areas
If your Shih Tzu has a habit of chewing on furniture, shoes, or other household objects, limit their access to those areas until they learn proper behavior.
- Use baby gates or playpens to keep them in a safe space when unsupervised.
- Keep valuable or dangerous items like shoes, remote controls, and wires out of reach.
- Cover furniture legs with furniture protectors or bitter spray deterrents.
4. Use a Taste Deterrent on Furniture and Objects
Bitter sprays are designed to discourage dogs from chewing on objects by making them taste unpleasant.
- Apply a dog-safe bitter apple spray or citrus spray to furniture legs, cables, or other frequently chewed objects.
- Reapply as needed, as the scent and taste may fade over time.
5. Increase Daily Exercise and Playtime
A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Ensuring your Shih Tzu gets enough physical activity reduces their need to chew out of boredom.
- Take your dog on two short walks per day to burn energy.
- Schedule at least 30 minutes of interactive playtime, such as fetch or tug-of-war.
- Provide puzzle toys or food-dispensing toys to keep them engaged when alone.
6. Address Separation Anxiety
If your Shih Tzu chews due to separation anxiety, helping them feel more secure when alone is crucial.
- Create a calm and predictable routine before leaving.
- Leave a worn t-shirt with your scent in their bed to comfort them.
- Use interactive toys to keep them entertained in your absence.
- Gradually increase the time they spend alone to build confidence.
If anxiety-based chewing persists, consult a veterinarian or professional trainer for additional guidance.
7. Feed a Balanced Diet and Provide Chewable Treats
Ensure your Shih Tzu’s diet meets their nutritional needs to prevent chewing from hunger or deficiencies.
- Feed high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and size.
- Offer healthy chewable treats like carrots, dental sticks, or rawhide alternatives.
8. Be Patient and Consistent
Training takes time, and it’s important to remain consistent and patient. Avoid punishing your Shih Tzu for chewing, as negative reinforcement can lead to fear or confusion.
- Instead of scolding, redirect their behavior to a positive alternative.
- Reinforce good chewing habits with praise and rewards.
- Stay consistent with training, as repetition helps dogs learn boundaries.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your Shih Tzu’s destructive chewing persists despite training, there may be underlying behavioral or medical issues that need professional attention.
Signs You Should Consult a Veterinarian or Trainer:
- Your dog is chewing excessively or obsessively.
- They are showing signs of extreme anxiety or stress.
- Destructive behavior worsens despite consistent training.
- They are chewing on dangerous objects, such as electrical wires or hard surfaces.
A veterinarian can rule out medical causes, while a certified dog trainer or behaviorist can help develop a personalized training plan.
Final Thoughts
Stopping your Shih Tzu from destroying furniture and objects requires patience, redirection, and providing appropriate chewing alternatives. By understanding why they chew, offering safe chew toys, using training techniques, and keeping them mentally and physically engaged, you can prevent destructive behaviors and create a happier, well-behaved companion.