How to Stop a Bichon Frise From Chewing Everything
Bichon Frises are cheerful, affectionate companions prone to destructive chewing—especially when anxious or under-stimulated. Their gentle nature and high trainability (4/5) make them excellent candidates for positive-reinforcement training, but their separation anxiety and moderate energy levels (3/5) mean they need clear guidance on appropriate chewing outlets. Destructive chewing often signals boredom, anxiety, or a lack of designated toys. Unlike high-energy breeds, Bichons don't need exhausting exercise routines; instead, they benefit from mental engagement, consistent boundaries, and secure, appealing chewing alternatives. This guide teaches you to redirect your Bichon's natural chewing instinct toward toys and away from furniture, shoes, and household items using patience, consistency, and rewards.
Step-by-step
- 1
Identify triggers and stress signals
Observe when your Bichon chews most—during alone time, after exercise, or when excited. Bichons are prone to separation anxiety, so chewing during departures is common. Document patterns to pinpoint whether chewing stems from anxiety, boredom, or simply exploration. This awareness helps you address the root cause, not just the symptom.
- 2
Puppy-proof and restrict access
Remove tempting items (shoes, cushions, electrical cords) from your Bichon's reach and confine them to a safe, designated area when unsupervised. Use baby gates or a playpen to prevent access to high-value targets. This prevents rewarding the behavior and protects your belongings while you teach appropriate alternatives.
- 3
Introduce and rotate appropriate chew toys
Offer 4–6 varied, engaging chew toys (rubber Kongs, soft plush toys, puzzle toys) suited to your Bichon's small size. Rotate them weekly to maintain novelty and interest. Fill Kongs with treats or freeze peanut butter inside to make chewing rewarding and give your Bichon a productive outlet for their moderate energy.
- 4
Reward chewing on appropriate toys
When you catch your Bichon chewing a toy, immediately praise and reward with treats or affection. Bichons respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement and your approval. Consistency is key—celebrate every instance of appropriate chewing to build the behavior and reinforce that toys, not furniture, earn rewards.
- 5
Redirect inappropriate chewing calmly
If your Bichon begins chewing something forbidden, gently interrupt with a calm voice (avoid scolding, which can worsen anxiety) and immediately redirect them to a toy. Praise the redirect enthusiastically. Because Bichons are sensitive and prone to separation anxiety, harsh corrections can increase stress and worsen destructive behaviors.
- 6
Provide daily exercise and mental enrichment
Ensure 30 minutes of daily exercise (walks, play sessions, fetch) plus puzzle games or scent-work activities to satisfy your Bichon's moderate energy and curiosity. A mentally and physically engaged Bichon is less likely to chew destructively. This routine also reduces anxiety and reinforces your bond.
Pro tips
- Start crate training early: Bichons learn quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement when introduced to a crate gradually. A safe crate with a toy inside becomes a retreat, reducing anxiety-driven chewing and supporting housetraining.
- Make chew toys irresistible: Freeze wet food or peanut butter inside Kongs or stuff them with high-value treats. Your Bichon's food motivation makes these toys vastly more appealing than furniture.
- Combine training with consistent exercise: A tired, mentally stimulated Bichon is less likely to chew destructively. Even 30 minutes of daily activity plus puzzle play dramatically reduces problem behaviors linked to boredom and anxiety.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Bichon chew more when I leave?+
Bichons are highly prone to separation anxiety and over-attachment. Chewing releases calming endorphins and helps them cope with stress. Start with short departures, leave a safe chew toy, and practice calm hellos/goodbyes to reduce anxiety over time. Consider crate training or a confined, puppy-proofed space to keep them safe when alone.
Should I punish my Bichon for chewing?+
No. Bichons are sensitive and respond poorly to punishment, which often increases anxiety and worsens destructive behavior. Use only positive reinforcement—reward appropriate chewing and calmly redirect inappropriate behavior. This breed's high trainability means they learn quickly when rewarded, not scolded.
How long does it take to stop destructive chewing?+
With consistent training, most Bichons show improvement within 4–8 weeks. However, if separation anxiety is the root cause, expect 8–12 weeks or longer as you gradually build their confidence being alone. Patience and consistency are crucial; backsliding can occur if boundaries slip.
What toys work best for Bichons?+
Bichons are small but playful, so choose toys appropriately sized and durable—rubber Kongs, rope toys, soft plush toys, and puzzle toys work well. Rotate toys weekly to maintain interest. Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys are especially valuable for keeping their minds engaged and satisfying their moderate energy levels.