How to Stop a Boston Terrier From Chewing Everything
Boston Terriers are intelligent, lively companions with a friendly and amusing temperament—but their high energy and stubborn streak can manifest as destructive chewing. Because Bostons are highly trainable and eager to please, they respond beautifully to positive reinforcement when given clear guidance. However, their tendency toward overexcitement means excess energy often fuels unwanted chewing behavior. This guide addresses Boston-specific chewing management by combining appropriate physical and mental outlets with the positive-reinforcement methods that suit their bright, willing nature. With consistent training and 45 minutes of daily exercise, you can redirect your Boston's natural drive into approved toys and behaviors.
Step-by-step
- 1
Establish a consistent daily exercise routine
Boston Terriers have moderate energy (3/5) but become destructive when under-stimulated. Commit to 45 minutes of daily activity—brisk walks, fetch, or interactive play—to tire them out mentally and physically. A well-exercised Boston is far less likely to chew out of boredom or excess energy.
- 2
Identify and remove temptation
Boston Terriers' small size makes it easy for them to access household items. Puppy-proof your home by removing shoes, socks, cables, and soft furnishings from reach. Use baby gates to restrict access to problem areas, and keep your Boston's crate or safe space clear of chewable hazards.
- 3
Provide approved chew toys and rotate them
Offer durable, appropriately-sized toys designed for small breeds—puzzle toys, rubber toys, and chew-safe materials work well. Rotate toys every few days to maintain novelty and prevent boredom. Bostons' bright, inquisitive nature means they appreciate variety and mental engagement.
- 4
Reward all appropriate chewing immediately
Use positive reinforcement by praising and rewarding your Boston with treats or play when you catch them chewing approved toys. Bostons are responsive to praise and eager to repeat behaviors that earn rewards. Consistency and timing matter—reward within seconds of the desired behavior.
- 5
Interrupt unwanted chewing with redirection
When you catch your Boston chewing something inappropriate, calmly redirect them to an approved toy and praise them once they engage with it. Avoid punishment or scolding; Bostons respond poorly to harsh corrections and may become defensive or more stubborn. Keep approved toys nearby for quick swaps.
- 6
Manage overexcitement to prevent chewing episodes
Boston Terriers tend toward overexcitement, which triggers destructive behavior. Teach a 'calm settling' cue using positive reinforcement, and practice it during high-energy moments. Short training sessions (5–10 minutes) match their bright, somewhat stubborn nature and prevent frustration.
Pro tips
- Boston Terriers overheat easily—schedule your 45 minutes of daily exercise during cooler parts of the day (early morning or evening). A hot, frustrated Boston is more likely to engage in destructive chewing, so prevent overheating and overexcitement together.
- Use short, positive training sessions (5–10 minutes) to match your Boston's bright, willing nature without triggering stubbornness. End on a win, praise generously, and keep treats handy so your Boston associates chewing redirection with rewards.
- Because Bostons are overexcitable, manage their environment before chaos starts. Crate them during times you can't supervise, provide a calm settling space, and practice 'down-stay' commands to help them self-regulate and reduce chewing triggers.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Boston Terrier chew more than other small dogs I know?+
Boston Terriers have a lively, energetic temperament and can become overexcited easily. Their moderate energy level (3/5) means they need consistent outlets for that drive. Without adequate exercise (45 minutes daily) and mental stimulation, they channel energy into destructive chewing. Their stubborn streak also means they may persist in unwanted behaviors if not clearly redirected.
What's the best type of toy for a Boston Terrier to chew?+
Choose small, durable toys designed for small breeds—rubber Kong toys, Nylabone chews, and puzzle toys work well. Boston Terriers are bright and appreciate toys that engage their minds. Avoid rawhide, small balls, or toys with loose parts that they could swallow. Rotate toys every few days to match their inquisitive nature and prevent boredom.
How long does it take to stop my Boston from chewing everything?+
With consistent positive reinforcement, most Boston Terriers show improvement within 2–4 weeks. However, because they have a stubborn streak, you must remain patient and consistent. Combined with adequate daily exercise and proper redirection, chewing behaviors typically resolve within 6–8 weeks. Bostons are highly trainable, so persistence pays off.
Can I punish my Boston Terrier for chewing the wrong things?+
No—punishment is ineffective and can backfire. Boston Terriers respond poorly to harsh corrections; they may become defensive, stubborn, or anxious, worsening the behavior. Positive reinforcement is far more effective for this breed. Focus on removing temptation, providing appropriate toys, and rewarding good choices instead.