Help! My Dog is Chewing On Everything! (Vet Answered)

Hey Trevor,

It sounds like Zoey is going through a frustrating phase, and I understand why you’re concerned. Chewing can be a normal behavior for dogs, but when it becomes excessive or destructive, it often signals an underlying need. It could be it’s teething, boredom, anxiety, or even a lack of appropriate outlets for her natural instincts. Since she’s a Shih Tzu-Bichon mix, she likely has a combination of traits from both breeds, including a strong playful tendency, which might make managing her behavior a bit more challenging.

First, consider her age; if she’s still a puppy, teething discomfort could be driving her to chew on anything she can find. If she’s older, she may be experiencing boredom or stress. Providing appropriate chew toys, puzzle feeders, and regular exercise can help redirect her energy in a positive way. If she’s left alone for long periods, she might be chewing as a way to cope with anxiety. In that case, interactive toys or even scent games can keep her engaged. If her chewing seems compulsive or is accompanied by other concerning behaviors, a vet check might be needed to rule out underlying medical issues. Letting her explore the world in a structured way, through training, mental enrichment, and play. These tools and methods can help satisfy her instincts and reduce destructive habits. If you’d like to speak to one of our vets for more tailored advice, you can always schedule a call at PangoVet, where one of our experienced veterinarians can help you in more detail.

Best wishes,

Dr. Paola