Dogs chew instinctively. Therefore, this behavior comes naturally to them, till the point that they completely destroy your furniture. Dog chewing deterrents, as the name suggests, keep your dog from going to town on your belongings. It’s somewhat a similar product range as dog deterrents.
While chewing is a healthy activity for dogs, especially puppies, there is a need to direct it. During teething, puppies need something to chew on. As responsible pet parents, we must provide them with a suitable solution, or else they will start chewing everything and anything in their sight.
Interestingly enough, this is also the time when dog deterrents for chewing can be used as effective training tools, but much cheaper than dog training lessons, ha!
Now before we get into the best dog chewing deterrents, let us see what they are.
What are Dog Chewing Deterrents?
Dog chewing deterrents are products that keep your dog from chewing what it is not supposed to. Two kinds of chewing deterrents are prevalent in the market today:
- Taste based deterrents
- Noise based deterrents
The first type of deterrent works by making your dog averse to the taste of the furniture. Just like us, dogs don’t like bitter things. In fact, they abhor it. Consequently, most dog taste-based deterrents have a bitter lemon or apple taste to them. You apply the deterrent to a surface; your dogs decide to chew on it; absolutely hates the taste and decides that chewing this horrible thing isn’t worth the effort.
The second type of chewing deterrent relies on the factor of surprise. Dogs don’t like sounds such as car exhausts or a sudden loud bang or a hiss. They have been programmed by nature to hate and move away from such sounds. Whenever a dog hears, let’s say, a hiss, he instinctively relates it to a snake. So the dog does what their instincts tell him to and flees. Therefore, Noise-based deterrents often comprise of cans of compressed air. When compressed air is released from this can it makes a loud noise which dogs don’t really like.
As with everything, there is no one size fit all chewing deterrent on the market. While some dogs hate the bitter taste of deterrent sprays, some enjoy it. Similarly, puppies are naturally inquisitive and playful. Therefore, loud noises may excite them more rather than stopping them. And loud noises can also cause hearing damage in younger dogs. In short, you have to consider a lot of factors before making a decision about what’s the best chewing deterrent for your dog.
How To Choose A Dog Chewing Deterrent?
Choosing a deterrent requires careful consideration of a number of factors. These factors can include things like effectiveness and age. So, let’s take a closer look at the factors you need to consider.
Your Dog’s Personality
The most important factor that determines the effectiveness of a deterrent spray for dogs is your dog’s personality. No two dogs are created equal. Every dog has its own sense of taste. So some dogs hate bitter things, while others quite like it. It is your responsibility to know your dog’s preferences.
Similarly, dogs also have varied responses to noise. While most dogs hate sudden, loud noises, some become curious. Therefore, before using any deterrent, you have to consider the likes and dislikes of your dog. Only then can you make an effective decision. Having said that, if you look close enough, you will find a chewing deterrent that works.
Dog Age
Most people make the mistake of using the same anti-chew spray for both young and old dogs alike. While this practice may work, chances are it won’t. Aside from quite different personality traits, young and old dogs are sensitive to different stimuli. Some ingredients in anti-chew sprays that are safe for old dogs may be harmful to young ones. All of this has to do with the differences in the development and functioning of the immune system in dogs of different ages.
Similarly, loud noises may harm the hearing ability of puppies, unlike older dogs. Countless studies have found that excessive noise may harm the hearing ability of younger dogs and may also induce long-lasting psychological effects like a phobia of such noises. In short, consideration of dog age is a necessary precaution that you need to take while choosing a dog chewing deterrent.
Safety
While choosing an anti-chew spray, make sure that you read up on all the safety precautions. Ensure that it is safe for your dog. Most dog repellent sprays don’t contain toxic substances, but there are a few that do. So, the best way to do this is to ask your vet about the products that you’re willing to try. Your vet will know what ingredients are safe and what aren’t.
Aside from this, staying away from deterrents that contain allergens is a good idea. Here again, ask your vet about possible allergy-causing substances for dogs and steer clear of them.
Effectiveness
Finally, there is no one spray that works for every dog. Each dog is unique and has, therefore, different tendencies and preferences. Some dogs don’t like things that taste or smell like vinegar while others don’t care. Similar is the case for bitter lemon and apple-flavored sprays.
And similar is the case for other dog deterrents for chewing like compressed-air cans. What works for one dog doesn’t work for all of them. Just keep that in mind.
10 Best Dog Chewing Deterrents
The market is full of dog chewing deterrents that claim to solve all of your dog’s destructive chewing behavior. We wish every product that claims to do so, did so. But most products on the market are plain bad and there is no getting around this fact.
Sniffing through this many products is no easy task and is, therefore, better left to the experts like us. So, to make sure you don’t fall victim to these false claims, here are the best dog chewing deterrents.
1. PetSafe SSSCAT Spray Pet Deterrent
Most people are very cautious about the things their dog licks. They go out of their way to ensure that everything their dog puts in their mouth is safe. So, it is no surprise that many dog owners are not that comfortable using a spray. Enter the PetSafe SSSCAT Spray Pet Deterrent.
First up, although it has ‘spray’ in its name, it is more like a canister of compressed air. It is motion-sensitive which means that after you place it near something, like a chair, it works on its own. So, whenever your dog makes an appearance, you can spray a harmless compound at up to 3 feet. Unsurprisingly, this startles the dog and he decides to leave.
Theory aside, the PetSafe SSSCAT Pet Deterrent works surprisingly well. It keeps your dog away while also being completely harmless. Plus the cost of maintenance is minimal. All you have to do is change the batteries and refill the can once in a while. Although costly, it is a great product and we quite like it.
2. The Company of Animals Pet Corrector
Let’s get one thing out of the way first: Pet Corrector is not to be used on puppies. Puppies are sensitive to noise. Therefore, any sudden noise can startle them and make them nervous. This nervousness can then transform into a behavioral issue that can potentially hold them back.
However, this dog chewing deterrent is a pretty great tool for training adult dogs. The canister emits a hiss of compressed air that resembles a warning some animals like snakes make. This sound alerts your dog and stops them in their tracks. That means combining the Pet Corrector with positive reinforcement training can yield pretty positive results. For instance, whenever you find your dog chewing on a piece of furniture, use the Pet Corrector and when you have the attention of your dog, give him a chew toy. After he has taken the chew toy, reward him with a treat.
The Pet Corrector should be used as an aid in training rather than to intimidate your pets. As a deterrent spray for dogs, it works quite well but be sure not to direct it straight at your dog.
3. PetSafe SprayShield Animal Deterrent with Clip
The PetSafe Animal Deterrent works double duty. It not only stops your dog from chewing your belongings it also comes in handy during a dog attack. We have all been in situations where we are out on a walk with our dog and some aggressive dog comes at us like crazy. In situations like this, PetSafe Animal Deterrent works wonders.
The thing that makes this deterrent so effective is its strong citronella scent. Dogs hate it. So as soon as they get a whiff of the substance they run away. Additionally, citronella is safe and besides the scent, it is not inconvenient for a dog. Oh, and the canister has a lock to protect you from spraying your own dog by mistake.
Plus, it comes with a belt so you can easily carry it with you. All in all, the spray works quite well both indoors and outdoors.
4. Grannicks Bitter Apple Taste Deterrent for Dogs
The thing about bitterness is that dogs hate it as much as we do. Well, at least most dogs. The Grannicks Bitter Apple Deterrent leverages its bitterness to keep your dogs in check.
Using the Grannicks Bitter Apple Deterrent is pretty simple. You spray this at things you don’t want your dog to chew. Your sofa, carpet, or even your hands, you can spray it anywhere without any adverse side effects.
One thing to note here: The bitter Apple taste will not work on all dogs. Some dogs really like it and start chewing more than before. As ironic as that sounds, it is true. Therefore, before buying this chewing deterrent for dogs, make sure you know if this will work on your dog or not.
5. Bodhi Dog 2 in 1 No Chew & Hot Spot Spray
Bodhi Dog Spray contains natural ingredients and absolutely no chemicals. This means that while you will primarily use it on the surface like rugs and walls, it is also pretty effective in keeping your dog from biting their wounds. Dogs bite their wounds in response to irritation which makes the wounds worse. Products like Bodhi Dog Spray are great at dealing with this issue.
So how does it work? As the name suggests, it is a bitter spray. Therefore, it makes the surfaces and things taste bitter. Dogs detest it and, as a result, leave that surface alone.
In short, Bodhi Dog Spray is a harmless way of keeping your dog from chewing down furniture and biting their wounds.
6. Professional Strength Anti Chew Repellent
The thing about Professional Strength Anti Chew Repellent is that it is really potent. So much so that people who have actually tasted it say that if you taste it you will regret the day you were born. Now imagine the degree to which your puppy will despise if he tries to bite something with this stuff on.
The formula of the Professional Anti Chew Repellent is safe to use on all surfaces as well as on wounds and skin. This makes the repellent a good option for people who don’t want to subject their doggies to a cone.
No alcohol, non-toxic, works great and doesn’t cost a lot, this product is an all-around champ.
7. Emmy’s Best Stop The Chew
So here’s the deal: Emmy’s Best Stop The Chew works, but with limitations. Let us explain. Remember how we explained at the beginning of this article that bitter sprays don’t work on all dogs? Well, it turns out Emmy’s Best Stop The Chew works for some and doesn’t work for others. Heck, some dogs even prefer this spray on the furniture.
However, not everything is negative here. When the spray works, it works remarkably well. This dog chewing deterrent not only makes puppies leave your furniture alone but it also works for wounds. Since Emmy’s dog deterrent doesn’t contain any alcohol, it can be applied to a wound. The bitter taste keeps your dog from licking or biting the wound and thus prevents further degradation.
In short, Emmy’s Best Stop the Chew is a good product however, it doesn’t work 100% of the time.
8. Anti Chew Dog Training Spray
Pets Are Kids Too is the company that makes this Anti Chew Dog Training Spray and it claims that their spray is 3X more bitter than other brands on the market. While we haven’t tasted it, those who have, advise strongly against doing so.
The formula of the Anti Chew Dog Training Spray is non-alcoholic which means that it is safe for your dog. In addition, you can apply it to all surfaces without causing any side effects like discoloration and stains. The bitter formula is also safe for puppies as well.
One thing that you need to keep in mind is that Pets Are Kids Too doesn’t advertise this spray as safe for wounds. So if you are looking for something that is safe to apply on wounds, you are better off looking elsewhere. Overall, the Anti Chew Dog Training Spray is legit bitter. And we promise, your dogs will hate it.
9. Fooey! Ultra-Bitter Training Aid Spray
Fooey! claims that their spray is “the most bitter stuff on Earth”. The claim alone evokes the impression of a quality product that will discourage your pets from biting your stuff. But, unfortunately, it doesn’t work quite as well.
The Fooey Ultra-Bitter Training Spray suffers from the same problem as the Emmy’s Spray Deterrent. While some pets do hate it, it does nothing to other pets. So it works, but don’t expect it to work for all of them.
On the other hand, it is harmless. There isn’t any alcohol, dyes, and odor. Therefore it is quite safe to apply to your pet’s skin. It also doesn’t leave any marks on the furniture. Overall, it is a good product and if you can try some on your pet before buying, we would highly suggest you do that.
10. Rocco & Roxie No Chew Extreme Bitter Spray for Dogs
Rocco & Roxie No Chew Bitter Spray is a peculiar dog chewing deterrent, to say the least. For some people, it works better than anything else on the market. While for others, it is a waste of money.
Now the question here is: Why doesn’t it work for some people? Well, everything has to do with your particular dog. Dogs, like humans, have different taste preferences. So while some dogs may abhor the taste of Rocco & Roxie’s formula, others quite like it. Therefore, if you are looking to buy this, you need to know your dog first.
Other than that, there is nothing wrong with this product. It is alcohol-free, contains no dyes, and is safe to use on hot spots like itchy skin and bandages. Similarly, it is also safe for rugs and carpets. In short, this tea tree extract packing, non-toxic, alcohol-free spray can be a great fit for your dog if you do a little research on your dog beforehand.
Dog Chewing Deterrents – FAQ
There is a lot of information present in this article but we know we might have missed something. As a result, the following is an attempt to answer the more pressing questions down below.
What to Spray on Things to Keep Dogs From Chewing?
You can choose from a variety of dog anti-chewing sprays to keep your dogs from chewing. There are a lot of different sprays on the market. Most of these sprays have a bitter Lemon or Apple flavor. Dogs don’t like such flavors so they keep away from things that taste like this.
If you don’t want to buy a spray you can also make your own at home. Making a dog deterrent spray is really easy. Take one part of white vinegar and mix it with two parts of Apple-cider vinegar. Put it in a bottle and spray it on surfaces that you want to protect.
How do you Keep Dogs from Chewing on Rugs?
There are plenty of things that you can do to keep your dogs from chewing on rugs. One of the easiest and probably the most effective is a dog repellent spray for rugs and carpets. Buy an appropriate chewing deterrent spray or a noise-based deterrent or you can also make one of your own. But these things are temporary and if you don’t do something about rectifying your dog’s behavior, the problem will persist.
The lasting solution to this problem is a healthy alternative. Give your dog some chew toys, take it out for walks, and play with him. These are healthier and more enjoyable alternatives that your will dog will adapt to pretty quickly.
How do I Stop my Dog from Chewing Fabric?
Provide your dog with plenty of opportunities to chew along with positive reinforcement. These opportunities include chewing toys, inedible bones, and plenty of exercises. Use these things with positive reinforcement. For instance, whenever you find your dog chewing a fabric, stop him with a loud noise, give him a chew toy, and treat him once he takes up that toy. This will reinforce the love of the toy and over time, your dog will forget about chewing the fabric.
Remove all the fabric that your dog is likely to chew. This means that you should keep your clothes in a place where your dog can’t reach them. But this is a temporary solution that will not curb the chewing problem. So
Will vinegar stop a dog from chewing?
Vinegar can stop a dog from chewing but there are a few caveats. Firstly, while most dogs frown upon the smell of vinegar, some don’t. The same goes for the taste. Many dogs will hate it but some of them will not be bothered. It is what it is so you will have to deal with it.
Therefore, if your dog doesn’t shy away from vinegar try another dog chewing deterrent. You are sure to find one that works.
Chewing deterrents can be great tools to prevent your dog from chewing. However, providing your dog with good chew toys and finding out if there is an underlying cause should be the prominent move.