How To Stop Your Dog From Chewing Remote Controls Practical Deterrents That Work

Dogs chew. It’s a natural behavior rooted in exploration, teething, boredom, or anxiety. But when their target is your TV remote, it becomes more than an annoyance—it’s costly, potentially dangerous, and frustrating. Remote controls are small, easy to grab, and often carry the scent of human hands, making them oddly appealing to curious canines. The good news? This habit is fixable with consistent training, smart environmental adjustments, and effective deterrents. This guide provides actionable, science-backed strategies to protect your electronics and redirect your dog’s chewing instincts appropriately.

Why Dogs Chew Remote Controls

Understanding the root cause of chewing is essential before applying solutions. Dogs don’t chew remotes out of spite—they do it because the object satisfies a behavioral or physical need. Common reasons include:

• Exploration: Puppies and young dogs use their mouths to investigate the world. A remote’s shape, texture, and buttons make it an interactive toy.
• Teething: Puppies between 3–7 months experience discomfort as adult teeth emerge. Chewing relieves gum pressure.
• Boredom: Understimulated dogs seek out activities. If not provided with appropriate chew toys, they’ll improvise.
• Separation Anxiety: Destructive chewing often peaks when dogs are left alone and stressed.
• Attention-Seeking: Some dogs learn that chewing triggers a reaction—even yelling—which reinforces the behavior.

“Dogs chew objects not because they’re ‘bad,’ but because the environment offers them no better option.” — Dr. Karen Overall, Veterinary Behaviorist

Addressing the underlying motivation ensures long-term success rather than temporary suppression.

Step-by-Step Guide to Stop Remote Chewing

Stopping this behavior requires consistency, patience, and a multi-pronged approach. Follow these steps in sequence for best results:

1. Remove Temptation Immediately
   Keep remotes out of reach. Store them in drawers, cabinets, or on high shelves. Use cord organizers to bundle dangling cords that may attract attention.
2. Provide Alternatives
   Offer durable, engaging chew toys made for aggressive chewers (e.g., rubber Kongs, nylon bones). Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty.
3. Use Taste Deterrents
   Apply pet-safe bitter sprays (like Grannick’s Bitter Apple) to remotes and other off-limits items. Reapply after cleaning or handling.
4. Train the “Leave It” Command
   Begin in a distraction-free space. Place a treat in your closed hand, let the dog sniff, and say “leave it.” Reward only when they back away. Gradually increase difficulty.
5. Reinforce Positive Behavior
   When your dog chooses a toy over a remote, praise and reward immediately. Use high-value treats like freeze-dried liver to strengthen the association.
6. Manage the Environment Long-Term
   Use baby gates or dog-proof rooms when unsupervised. Consider crate training if necessary for safety and structure.

Tip: Never scold your dog after the fact. Dogs don’t connect delayed punishment with past actions. Instead, interrupt in the moment with a firm “uh-uh,” then redirect to an acceptable chew toy.

Effective Deterrents That Actually Work

Not all deterrents are created equal. Many rely on noise or shock, which can damage trust. The most humane and effective methods focus on taste, access control, and redirection.

Taste-Based Repellents

Bitter, spicy, or sour sprays make objects unpalatable without harming your dog. Look for products labeled non-toxic and vet-approved. Test on a small area first to avoid damaging plastic coatings.

Environmental Barriers

Prevention is the most reliable method. Use storage bins with lids, remote caddies, or furniture with enclosed compartments. Smart home hubs can reduce the number of remotes needed.

Remote Covers and Cases

Some owners use silicone or hard-shell protective cases for remotes. While not foolproof, they add an unpleasant texture and reduce scent appeal.

Scent Masking

Wipe remotes occasionally with unscented wipes to remove human sweat and oils. Dogs are drawn to items that smell like their people.

Deterrent Method	Effectiveness	Notes
Bitter Apple Spray	High (with consistency)	Reapply frequently; safe for pets
Remote Storage Box	Very High	100% effective if used consistently
\"Leave It\" Training	Moderate to High	Requires daily practice
Chew Toys Provided	High	Must be more appealing than remote
Noise Deterrents (e.g., cans with coins)	Low	Can cause fear; not recommended

Checklist: How to Dog-Proof Your Living Room

Use this checklist to systematically eliminate chewing opportunities and reinforce good habits:

• ✅ Store all remotes in a closed drawer or elevated shelf after use
• ✅ Install cord organizers to hide wires
• ✅ Provide at least three durable chew toys accessible at all times
• ✅ Spray remotes with pet-safe bitter deterrent weekly
• ✅ Train “leave it” for 5–10 minutes daily
• ✅ Rotate chew toys every 3–4 days to prevent boredom
• ✅ Crate or confine your dog when unsupervised
• ✅ Clean remotes regularly to remove hand oils and food residue
• ✅ Praise and treat your dog whenever they choose a toy over forbidden items
• ✅ Assess for signs of anxiety (panting, pacing, destruction only when alone)

Tip: Pair chew toys with treats. Stuff a Kong with peanut butter (xylitol-free) or freeze broth inside a rubber toy to boost appeal.

Real-Life Example: Fixing Max’s Remote Habit

Max, a 9-month-old Labrador mix, had destroyed four remotes in two months. His owners were frustrated and worried about electrical hazards. They tried yelling and hiding the remotes, but Max would dig them out from under couch cushions.

A certified trainer assessed the situation and identified two key issues: insufficient mental stimulation and lack of alternative outlets. Max was left alone for 8 hours daily with only a squeaky toy.

The solution included:

• Installing a remote caddy mounted on the wall behind the TV stand
• Introducing two frozen Kongs per day before work
• Starting daily “leave it” training with high-value treats
• Using bitter spray on spare remotes used during training
• Adding a puzzle feeder for breakfast to extend mealtime engagement

Within three weeks, Max stopped targeting remotes. By week six, he consistently chose his chew toys when tempted. The owners reported less overall destructiveness and improved focus during walks.

“The turning point wasn’t punishment—it was giving Max something better to do.” — Sarah Lin, Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Common Mistakes That Make Chewing Worse

Well-meaning owners often unintentionally reinforce destructive behavior. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Playing chase when the dog has the remote: This turns theft into a game. Instead, trade for a treat or toy (“drop it” command).
• Inconsistent rules: Allowing chewing on old remotes confuses dogs. The rule must be clear: remotes are never toys.
• Using physical punishment: Hitting or rubbing a dog’s nose in damage creates fear and erodes trust without teaching alternatives.
• Ignoring exercise needs: A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors. Aim for 30–60 minutes of activity daily, adjusted for breed and age.
• Over-relying on deterrents without training: Sprays and storage help, but without teaching self-control, the dog will find another target.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I train an older dog to stop chewing remotes?

Yes. While puppies are easier to redirect, adult dogs can learn new habits with consistent training. The key is identifying motivation—older dogs may chew due to anxiety or medical issues like dental pain. Consult your vet if sudden chewing appears in a previously well-behaved dog.

Are there chew-proof remote covers?

No cover is truly chew-proof against a determined dog. However, rigid silicone or polycarbonate cases can discourage casual mouthing by altering texture and reducing scent. These should be used alongside behavioral training, not as standalone solutions.

What if my dog swallows part of a remote?

This is a veterinary emergency. Button batteries and circuit boards can cause internal burns, blockages, or poisoning. Call your vet immediately and bring the remaining pieces for identification. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed.

Conclusion: Consistency Is Key

Stopping your dog from chewing remote controls isn’t about one magic trick—it’s about creating an environment where good choices are easy and bad ones are inaccessible. Combine secure storage, taste deterrents, and positive reinforcement training to build lasting change. Remember, every chew instinct your dog has is natural; our job is to guide it wisely.

Start tonight: put the remote away, pick up a chew toy, and practice “leave it” for five minutes. Small actions compound into big results. Your dog doesn’t want to destroy your things—they want to know what’s expected. Give them clear guidance, and you’ll both enjoy a safer, calmer home.

💬 Have a remote-chewing dog? Share your story or tip in the comments—your experience could help another pet owner avoid broken electronics and stress!