How To Stop Your Dog From Chewing Shoes When Left Alone Proven Methods

Dogs chewing shoes when left alone is one of the most common and frustrating behaviors pet owners face. It’s not just about damaged footwear—it often signals deeper issues like anxiety, boredom, or lack of training. While occasional chewing might seem harmless, repeated destruction of personal items can escalate and damage the bond between pet and owner. The good news is that with consistent effort and the right approach, this behavior can be corrected. This guide outlines proven, practical methods backed by animal behavior experts to help you stop your dog from chewing shoes—safely and humanely.

Understanding Why Dogs Chew Shoes When Alone

Before addressing the behavior, it's essential to understand the root causes. Chewing is a natural instinct in dogs, especially puppies exploring their environment through their mouths. However, when shoe-chewing persists into adulthood and occurs primarily when the dog is alone, it typically points to one or more underlying issues:

• Boredom: Dogs left without stimulation may resort to chewing as a way to pass time.
• Separation Anxiety: Many dogs experience distress when separated from their owners, leading to destructive behaviors.
• Lack of Training: If a dog hasn’t been taught what is acceptable to chew, they’ll make their own choices—often poor ones.
• Teething (in puppies): Young dogs chew to relieve gum discomfort, but improper management can turn this phase into a lasting habit.
• Attention-Seeking: Even negative attention reinforces behavior. If chewing gets a reaction, the dog may repeat it.

Identifying the cause is crucial. A bored dog needs enrichment; an anxious dog needs emotional support and gradual desensitization. Applying the wrong solution—like scolding without addressing anxiety—can worsen the problem.

Tip: Observe your dog’s behavior before and after you leave. Signs like pacing, whining, or immediate chewing suggest anxiety, while delayed chewing may indicate boredom.

Proven Methods to Stop Shoe Chewing

The most effective solutions combine environmental management, behavioral training, and mental stimulation. Here are five evidence-based strategies used by professional trainers and veterinarians.

1. Remove Temptation and Secure Your Environment

The simplest and most overlooked step is prevention. If shoes are within reach, your dog will likely chew them. This isn’t defiance—it’s opportunity.

Keep all footwear in closed closets, behind doors, or in storage bins. Use baby gates to restrict access to entryways where shoes accumulate. Consider designating a “dog-safe” zone in your home equipped with appropriate toys and bedding.

“Management is the first line of defense. You can’t train a dog out of chewing shoes if the shoes are always available.” — Dr. Sarah Wilson, Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist

2. Provide Appropriate Chew Alternatives

Dogs need to chew. The goal isn’t to eliminate chewing, but to redirect it. Offer durable, appealing alternatives such as:

• Rubber toys (e.g., Kong, West Paw)
• Stuffable puzzle toys filled with peanut butter or wet food
• Nylon or dental chews designed for long-lasting engagement
• Frozen treats (wet food stuffed in a toy and frozen)

Introduce these items when your dog is calm so they associate them with relaxation. Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty and interest.

3. Build Independence with Gradual Desensitization

If your dog only chews shoes when you’re gone, separation anxiety could be the culprit. Address this with a structured desensitization plan:

1. Practice leaving the room for 10 seconds, then return without making a fuss.
2. Gradually increase duration—from 30 seconds to several minutes over days.
3. Perform pre-departure cues (putting on shoes, picking up keys) without actually leaving.
4. Only progress when your dog remains calm at each stage.

This process teaches your dog that your departure doesn’t mean prolonged absence or danger. Consistency is key—rushing the process can trigger regression.

4. Increase Physical and Mental Exercise Before Leaving

A tired dog is less likely to engage in destructive behavior. Aim for at least 30–60 minutes of vigorous activity before you leave, depending on breed and age. This includes:

• Off-leash running or fetch
• Scent games (hide treats indoors)
• Obedience drills or trick training

Mental exercise is equally important. A 15-minute training session can be more tiring than a walk. Combine physical and mental workouts to maximize calmness during alone time.

5. Use Positive Reinforcement and Crate Training

Crate training, when done correctly, provides a safe den-like space that discourages chewing. Never use the crate as punishment. Instead:

• Feed meals inside the crate with the door open.
• Toss treats inside to create positive associations.
• Gradually increase time spent in the crate while you're home.
• Only close the door once your dog enters willingly.

When leaving, place your dog in the crate with a long-lasting chew toy. This prevents access to shoes and reduces anxiety by offering a familiar, secure space.

Tip: Spray a small amount of dog-safe bitter apple on shoes as a temporary deterrent—but never rely on this alone. Combine with training for lasting results.

Step-by-Step Plan to Implement Over 4 Weeks

Changing behavior takes time. Follow this realistic timeline to see measurable improvement:

Week	Focus	Key Actions
1	Environmental Control & Observation	Remove all shoes from accessible areas. Monitor chewing patterns. Begin toy rotation.
2	Exercise & Mental Stimulation	Incorporate daily walks and 10-minute training sessions. Introduce puzzle toys.
3	Desensitization Training	Start short departures. Practice leaving cues without exiting. Reward calm behavior.
4	Consolidation & Crating	Introduce crating if applicable. Extend alone time gradually. Assess progress.

Track your dog’s behavior in a journal. Note when chewing occurs, how long you were gone, and what interventions were used. Adjust the plan based on what works.

Common Mistakes That Make Chewing Worse

Even well-meaning owners can accidentally reinforce bad habits. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Punishing after the fact: Dogs don’t connect delayed punishment with past actions. Scolding a dog hours later only creates fear.
• Overusing verbal commands: Repeatedly saying “no” without redirection becomes background noise.
• Leaving high-value items out: Old shoes still carry scent and are tempting. Discard or store them securely.
• Skipping consistency: All household members must enforce the same rules. Mixed messages confuse dogs.

“Dogs thrive on predictability. Inconsistent responses to chewing teach them that rules change randomly—which increases stress and misbehavior.” — James Reed, Professional Dog Trainer, APDT

Real-Life Example: Turning Around Max’s Chewing Habit

Max, a two-year-old Border Collie, would destroy at least one shoe every time his owner left for work. His owner returned to shredded sneakers and guilt-inducing messes. After consulting a trainer, she implemented a four-step plan:

1. She stored all shoes in a locked closet and installed a baby gate to block the entryway.
2. She began morning fetch sessions and taught Max simple tricks like “spin” and “high five” to tire his mind.
3. She started desensitizing him to departures by practicing short exits and rewarding calm sitting.
4. She introduced a Kong toy stuffed with yogurt and frozen, which Max learned to enjoy before she left.

Within three weeks, shoe destruction stopped. By week six, Max would go to his mat and chew his Kong when he saw his owner pick up her keys. The behavior didn’t vanish overnight—but persistence paid off.

Checklist: How to Prevent Shoe Chewing When Leaving Your Dog Alone

Use this actionable checklist before you head out the door:

• ✅ Put all shoes and personal items out of reach or in closed storage.
• ✅ Provide at least one durable chew toy or puzzle feeder.
• ✅ Take your dog for a walk or play session before departure.
• ✅ Practice basic obedience commands to reinforce focus and calmness.
• ✅ Leave calming background noise (TV, radio, or dog-specific music).
• ✅ Use a crate or confined safe area if your dog is comfortable with it.
• ✅ Avoid emotional goodbyes—keep departures and returns low-key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pepper spray or vinegar to stop my dog from chewing shoes?

No. While some home remedies like vinegar or hot sauce may deter chewing temporarily, they can irritate your dog’s mouth and digestive system if ingested. Stick to pet-safe bitter sprays labeled for animals, and always pair them with training—not rely on them exclusively.

My dog only chews my shoes, not my partner’s. Why?

This is common. Your shoes carry your unique scent, which can be comforting—or a target for attention-seeking. It may also reflect your dog’s stronger attachment to you. Ensure both owners participate in training and provide equal reinforcement.

Is chewing a sign of aggression?

Not usually. Most shoe chewing is driven by anxiety, boredom, or instinct, not aggression. However, if your dog growls when you approach their chewing spot or shows other defensive behaviors, consult a veterinarian or behaviorist to rule out resource guarding.

Conclusion: A Calm, Shoe-Safe Home Is Possible

Stopping your dog from chewing shoes when left alone isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about understanding your dog’s needs and creating a supportive environment. With patience, consistency, and the right strategies, you can replace destructive habits with positive ones. The methods outlined here—environmental management, mental stimulation, desensitization, and positive reinforcement—are proven to work across breeds and ages. Start today by removing temptation and introducing one new chew toy. Small steps lead to lasting change. Your shoes—and your peace of mind—will thank you.

💬 Have a success story or tip that helped your dog stop chewing? Share it in the comments below and help fellow dog owners find relief!