Help! My Dog Won’t Stop Chewing! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Dear Dr. Paola,
My newly adopted dog Birdie chews on everything constantly. To help, I’ve gotten multiple opinions about her diet. We’re currently feeding her Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison, and we’ve also tried Purina One. I’d like to try The Farmer’s Dog, but I’m not sure which is best for her. ” – Susan
Quick Info about Birdie
Hi Susan,
Thank you for your question. Birdie’s constant chewing is actually quite common in newly adopted dogs, especially if she’s young or still adjusting to her environment. Chewing can be a natural way for dogs to explore, self-soothe, or relieve boredom. While diet can influence overall behavior and comfort, chewing this persistently usually has more to do with her level of mental stimulation and daily routine than what’s in her food bowl.
That said, when it comes to choosing the best diet for her, there are some real differences between the options you’ve mentioned. While food isn’t always the direct cause, her diet can influence how she feels overall, including her energy levels, digestion, and even behavior. If she’s healthy and not showing any digestive concerns or signs of food intolerance, this might be a good time to evaluate the quality and balance of her current diet.
Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison is a limited-ingredient, grain-free option that’s often chosen for dogs with sensitivities, but it contains about 45 to 50% carbohydrates, mostly from sweet potatoes and peas. Purina One typically has a similar or even higher carbohydrate content, depending on the formula.
In contrast, The Farmer’s Dog offers gently cooked, less processed meals with whole meats and fresh vegetables. These recipes tend to have around 20 to 30% carbohydrates and include naturally occurring antioxidants from ingredients like spinach, carrots, and broccoli. This fresh food format is easier to digest and may offer better nutrient absorption, helping support her energy, immune system, and skin health.
If you decide to switch, make sure to transition gradually over 7 to 10 days to avoid digestive upset. At the same time, providing safe chew toys and enriching her environment will help redirect that chewing instinct in a healthy, positive way.
Good luck!
Dr.Paola