Behavior · Chihuahua
How to Stop a Chihuahua From Chewing Everything
Updated · How we write our guides
Short answer
Stop your Chihuahua from chewing by removing forbidden temptations, providing designated chew zones, and gently redirecting inappropriate chewing toward approved toys. Because this sensitive breed often chews from boredom or anxiety, pairing consistent mental stimulation with positive reinforcement effectively teaches them proper habits.
Chihuahuas are spirited little dogs with bold, sassy personalities—but their small size and moderate energy level can make destructive chewing a frustrating problem for owners. Unlike larger breeds, Chihuahuas' chewing often stems from anxiety, boredom, or teething rather than pure exercise needs. Since Chihuahuas have a trainability rating of only 3/5, they require patience, consistency, and high-value rewards to redirect their behavior. This guide focuses on managing destructive chewing through environmental management, appropriate outlets, and positive reinforcement—methods that work with your Chihuahua's independent nature rather than against it. With dedicated daily effort and the right approach, you can teach your little companion what is and isn't acceptable to chew.
How to do it
Step-by-step
Tick off each step as you practice it — your progress is saved on this device.
Step 1: Identify and Remove Temptations
Secure or hide items your Chihuahua commonly chews: shoes, socks, wires, and cushions. Chihuahuas are curious and bold, so use closed cabinets, drawers, or a designated safe space rather than relying on them to avoid forbidden items. This prevents reinforcement of the destructive behavior and sets them up for success.
Step 2: Establish a Designated Chew Zone
Create a small, confined area with appropriate chew toys and interactive toys like Kongs and puzzle feeders. Chihuahuas respond well to routine, so consistently direct them to this zone during your 30-minute daily exercise periods and when you notice chewing behavior. Reward calm chewing with praise and occasional small treats.
Step 3: Redirect Chewing Immediately and Positively
When you catch your Chihuahua chewing something inappropriate, gently interrupt without scolding—harsh corrections can increase anxiety in this sensitive breed. Immediately offer an approved chew toy and reward engagement with enthusiasm and treats. Consistency is critical since Chihuahuas can be stubborn; redirect every time without exception.
Step 4: Provide Mental Stimulation to Combat Boredom
Chihuahuas have moderate energy but high intelligence; boredom often triggers destructive chewing. Rotate chew toys weekly, introduce puzzle feeders, and engage in short training sessions (5-10 minutes) using positive reinforcement. Mental exercise is often more tiring for small breeds than physical play.
Step 5: Address Anxiety and Resource Guarding Triggers
Chihuahuas are prone to anxiety and resource guarding, which can manifest as aggressive chewing. Keep high-value chews in a quiet, safe space and avoid creating competition around toys. If your Chihuahua shows anxiety when alone, consider crate training or puzzle toys to create a secure environment.
Step 6: Maintain a Consistent Routine and Reward Progress
Chihuahuas thrive on routine and respond best to immediate, consistent rewards. Establish predictable meal times, exercise times, and play sessions. Praise and treat every instance of appropriate chewing behavior to reinforce the desired habit over weeks to months.
For the Chihuahua
Pro tips
- Chihuahuas have a barking tendency of 5/5—redirect chewing instead of using loud corrections, which may trigger excessive barking and escalate anxiety.
- Keep high-value chews (like bully sticks) in a separate, safe space to avoid resource guarding; Chihuahuas' bold personality can make them possessive of prized items.
- Use their devotion to your advantage: short, frequent training sessions with you present reinforce that appropriate chewing earns your attention and praise, which Chihuahuas crave.
Owners ask
Frequently asked questions
My Chihuahua chews mainly when I leave the room. Is this separation anxiety?
Possibly. Chihuahuas are devoted dogs prone to anxiety when alone. Start with short departures, crate training, and leaving puzzle toys filled with treats. If chewing intensifies or paired with whining/barking, consult your vet about anxiety management alongside behavior training.
How long does it take to stop destructive chewing in Chihuahuas?
With consistent effort, you should see improvement in 2-4 weeks, though full habit change takes 2-3 months. Chihuahuas have lower trainability, so patience and repetition are essential. Progress depends on the underlying cause—boredom resolves faster than anxiety-related chewing.
Can I use punishment or time-out for chewing?
No. Chihuahuas are sensitive and bold—punishment often backfires, increasing anxiety and resource guarding. Stick to positive redirection and environmental management. Reward good behavior consistently, and they'll naturally prefer approved chews over forbidden items.
What chew toys work best for Chihuahuas?
Choose small, durable toys like rubber Kongs, rope toys, and nylon chews sized appropriately for their tiny mouths. Rotate toys weekly to maintain interest. Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys provide mental stimulation and satisfy their natural chewing drive.
Spotted a mistake or something out of date? Email us — we review every report, fix the guide and update its date. Our guides are general education, not a substitute for a certified trainer or veterinary behaviorist.
