Many dogs love their toys, but some tend to be too rough, quickly destroying them or even swallowing pieces. While chewing is a natural behavior, teaching your dog to be gentle with their toys ensures safer playtime and longer-lasting toys.
If your dog frequently rips apart plush toys, aggressively chews rubber toys, or guards their chews, structured training can help them develop better habits. This guide will explore why dogs are rough with their toys and how to teach them gentler play behaviors.
1. Why Some Dogs Are Rough with Their Toys
1.1 Strong Prey Drive Leads to Intense Chewing and Shaking
✔ Some dogs, especially Terriers, Retrievers, and Herding Breeds, have a high prey drive.
✔ They naturally shake, bite, and tear objects, mimicking how they would handle prey in the wild.
✔ Without proper redirection, they may destroy plush toys, balls, and ropes quickly.
1.2 Boredom and Excess Energy Cause Destructive Behavior
✔ Dogs that lack mental and physical stimulation may chew out of frustration.
✔ High-energy breeds require daily exercise and play to prevent destructive chewing.
✔ If toys are their only source of entertainment, they may become rough with them.
1.3 Lack of Training on How to Interact with Toys Properly
✔ Some dogs never learn the difference between playing and destroying.
✔ If a dog is allowed to tear apart objects as a puppy, they may continue as adults.
✔ Dogs that were rewarded for rough chewing in the past may think it’s acceptable.
1.4 Anxiety or Stress Can Lead to Aggressive Chewing
✔ Some dogs chew aggressively when they feel anxious, frustrated, or stressed.
✔ Chewing provides comfort, but overly rough behavior may be a coping mechanism.
2. How to Teach Your Dog to Be Gentle with Toys
2.1 Choose the Right Toys for Your Dog’s Play Style
✔ Soft plush toys are best for dogs that enjoy cuddling and carrying their toys.
✔ Durable rubber toys work well for strong chewers who need long-lasting options.
✔ Interactive puzzle toys provide mental stimulation and reduce frustration chewing.
2.2 Teach the “Gentle” Command
✔ Step 1: Offer your dog a toy and let them start chewing.
✔ Step 2: If they become too rough, say “Gentle” in a calm tone.
✔ Step 3: If they stop biting aggressively, reward them with praise and a treat.
✔ Step 4: If they continue chewing roughly, take the toy away for a short period.
Why It Works: Over time, your dog learns that calm, gentle chewing leads to rewards, while rough behavior makes the toy disappear.
2.3 Redirect Rough Chewing to an Appropriate Toy
✔ If your dog destroys plush toys, switch to tougher toys like rubber chews.
✔ If they start biting a toy too aggressively, swap it for a more durable option.
2.4 Reinforce Calm Play with Treats and Praise
✔ When your dog plays gently, reward them with verbal praise (“Good gentle!”) and treats.
✔ Positive reinforcement encourages them to repeat the gentle behavior.
2.5 Supervise Playtime to Prevent Destruction
✔ Until your dog learns to play gently, don’t leave them alone with soft toys.
✔ If they start ripping a toy apart, calmly remove it and redirect them to a chew-approved item.
2.6 Rotate Toys to Keep Them Interesting
✔ Dogs get bored with the same toys—rotate them to keep things exciting.
✔ Store some toys and introduce them every few weeks to renew interest.
3. Teaching Your Dog to Be Gentle with Chews and Bones
3.1 Use the “Drop It” Command to Prevent Guarding or Aggressive Chewing
✔ Step 1: Hold a treat and offer it while saying “Drop it”.
✔ Step 2: When your dog releases the chew, reward them immediately.
✔ Step 3: Give the chew back after a few seconds, reinforcing trust.
Why It Works: This prevents possessiveness and teaches your dog that giving up an object leads to rewards.
3.2 Limit Chew Time to Prevent Over-Chewing
✔ Allow chew sessions of 10-15 minutes to avoid excessive wear on teeth.
✔ Rotate between different textures (rubber, rawhide alternatives, nylon bones).
3.3 Use Frozen Chews for Teething Puppies
✔ If your puppy chews too aggressively, offer frozen carrots or rubber toys.
✔ The cold sensation soothes sore gums and reduces frustration.
4. Preventing Future Toy Destruction
4.1 Avoid Toys That Encourage Destruction
🚫 Avoid toys with stuffing or squeakers if your dog immediately tears them apart.
🚫 Don’t give household items (like old shoes) as toys, as this confuses them.
4.2 Provide Enough Physical and Mental Stimulation
✔ A tired dog is less likely to chew destructively.
✔ Increase walks, playtime, and training to reduce pent-up energy.
✔ Puzzle toys and food-dispensing toys engage their brain and discourage rough play.
4.3 Correct Rough Play with Consistency
✔ If your dog bites too hard on a toy, remove it and say “Too rough”.
✔ Offer a more appropriate toy and reward gentle chewing.
✔ Be consistent so your dog understands the rules.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Yelling or Punishing Your Dog for Rough Chewing – Instead, use redirection and rewards.
🚫 Giving Up on Toys Entirely – Dogs need toys for mental stimulation and comfort.
🚫 Letting Them Chew on Furniture or Household Items – Always provide appropriate alternatives.
6. When to Seek Professional Help
If your dog’s rough chewing turns into destructive behavior or resource guarding, consult a professional dog trainer.
🚨 Signs You May Need Extra Help:
✔ Aggressive growling when you try to take a toy.
✔ Obsession with chewing, leading to damaged teeth or gums.
✔ Ignoring all training attempts, continuing to rip apart toys.
A trainer can provide personalized strategies to modify destructive behaviors safely.
7. Final Thoughts
Teaching your dog to be gentle with toys and chews requires patience, supervision, and consistent training. By using positive reinforcement, redirection, and impulse control techniques, you can help your dog develop better play habits.
With time, your dog will learn how to enjoy their toys without destroying them, leading to safer, longer-lasting playtime.