Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, but when they start to chew on inappropriate items like shoes, furniture, or household items, it can be frustrating and even dangerous. Fortunately, there are several free dog training tips that can help teach your dog not to chew on things they shouldn’t.

1. Provide appropriate chew toys: One of the easiest ways to prevent your dog from chewing on inappropriate items is to provide them with appropriate chew toys. Dogs need to chew to relieve stress and anxiety and to keep their teeth clean, so make sure you have plenty of toys that are safe and appropriate for your dog’s size and age.
2. Supervise your dog: Until your dog has learned not to chew on inappropriate items, it’s important to supervise them when they are indoors. Keep an eye on them and redirect their attention to appropriate chew toys if you catch them chewing on something they shouldn’t.
3. Use taste deterrents: There are several products available that can be sprayed on items to make them taste unappealing to dogs. You can also use natural deterrents like vinegar or lemon juice. These can be effective in teaching your dog not to chew on certain items.
4. Use positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in dog training. When your dog chews on an appropriate toy, praise them and offer them a treat. This will reinforce the behavior and encourage them to continue chewing on appropriate items.
5. Exercise your dog: Dogs that are bored or have excess energy are more likely to chew on inappropriate items. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to help reduce their urge to chew.
6. Crate train your dog: Crate training is a great way to keep your dog safe and prevent them from chewing on inappropriate items when you’re not home. Make sure the crate is the appropriate size for your dog and is comfortable and inviting.
7. Be consistent: Consistency is key in dog training. Make sure everyone in your household is on the same page when it comes to teaching your dog not to chew on inappropriate items. Consistent training and reinforcement will help your dog learn what behavior is expected of them.

Teaching your dog not to chew on inappropriate items takes time and patience, but with the right training techniques, it’s possible to break this behavior. By providing appropriate chew toys, supervising your dog, using taste deterrents, using positive reinforcement, exercising your dog, crate training your dog, and being consistent, you can help your dog learn what behavior is expected of them and keep your household items safe.