How to Stop a Brittany From Chewing Everything
Brittanys are bright, energetic dogs bred to work in the field for hours—which means they have tremendous drive and need for mental and physical stimulation. Destructive chewing is one of the most common behavioral problems in this breed, typically rooted in boredom, excess energy, and their natural urge to work. Unlike less trainable breeds, your Brittany's 4/5 trainability rating means they'll respond exceptionally well to positive-reinforcement methods when their exercise needs are met. This guide focuses on managing destructive chewing by channeling your Brittany's intelligence and energy into appropriate outlets, preventing the problem before it starts, and teaching them what *is* acceptable to chew—rather than just punishing what isn't.
Step-by-step
- 1
Meet the 90-Minute Exercise Requirement
Brittanys have a 5/5 energy level and were bred for sustained field work. Inadequate exercise is the root cause of destructive chewing in this breed. Provide at least 90 minutes of vigorous daily activity: running, fetch, or organized play. A tired Brittany is far less likely to redirect energy into destructive behavior.
- 2
Establish a Designated Chew Station
Create a specific area with appropriate chew toys rotated weekly to maintain novelty. Include durable toys like Kongs, bully sticks, and puzzle toys that engage their problem-solving intelligence. Keep this station inviting and consistently rewarded so your Brittany learns this is the appropriate outlet for their chewing drive.
- 3
Puppy-Proof and Manage Access
Remove temptation by securing cables, keeping shoes and clothing out of reach, and supervising closely during indoor time. Crate training is invaluable for Brittanys—a properly conditioned crate prevents unsupervised destructive behavior and provides a safe space. Your intelligent Brittany will learn this is a positive zone with proper, reward-based introduction.
- 4
Interrupt and Redirect (Never Punish)
If you catch destructive chewing, never scold or punish—this increases anxiety and sensitivity, common Brittany traits that worsen the problem. Instead, calmly interrupt, remove the object, and immediately redirect to an appropriate toy with enthusiasm. Reward any engagement with the correct item with treats and praise.
- 5
Use Positive Reinforcement Consistently
Catch your Brittany *choosing* the right chew toy and reward heavily with high-value treats and verbal praise. Your eager, food-motivated Brittany thrives on positive feedback. This cements the association: appropriate chewing = good things happen. Consistency matters more than correction with this breed.
- 6
Prevent Boredom-Related Chewing with Enrichment
Beyond physical exercise, Brittanys need mental stimulation. Use puzzle toys, sniff games, training sessions, and varied environments to keep their bright mind engaged. A mentally stimulated Brittany is less likely to develop destructive chewing habits born from boredom or understimulation.
Pro tips
- Meet the full 90-minute exercise requirement relentlessly—this single factor resolves destructive chewing in most Brittanys more effectively than any training tool or technique.
- Rotate chew toys weekly to maintain novelty and interest; your intelligent Brittany will get bored with the same toy for months.
- Use training sessions as exercise and enrichment: Brittanys are eager to work with you, and short 10–15 minute training bursts throughout the day tire their mind and strengthen your bond.
Frequently asked questions
My Brittany chews when I leave the house. Is this separation anxiety?+
Possibly, but with Brittanys, it's often boredom and excess energy. Ensure the 90-minute exercise requirement is met *before* departure, use a crate, and leave puzzle toys. If panic behaviors occur (panting, pacing, barking), consult a trainer about desensitization. Most Brittany chewing during alone time resolves with proper exercise and enrichment.
How long until my Brittany stops chewing inappropriate items?+
With consistent management and positive reinforcement, most Brittanys show improvement within 2-4 weeks. Since they're highly trainable (4/5), the process is faster than less trainable breeds—but only if exercise, redirection, and rewards are applied consistently. Expect it to take several months for complete reliability.
Is it normal for Brittanys to have such a strong chewing drive?+
Yes. Brittanys were bred to work with their mouths, and chewing is a natural, instinctive behavior—not a sign of aggression or severe behavioral problems. The key is channeling this drive appropriately through designated outlets, exercise, and enrichment rather than trying to eliminate it entirely.
Can I use bitter sprays or punishment to stop chewing?+
No. Bitter sprays are unreliable and punishment increases anxiety and sensitivity in Brittanys, often making destructive behavior worse. Positive-reinforcement methods—exercise, redirection, and reward for correct choices—are far more effective with this eager, intelligent breed and maintain the strong bond they're bred for.