How to Stop Destructive Behavior in Dogs Stuck Indoors

Dogs are naturally curious and energetic creatures, and when they spend too much time indoors without proper stimulation, they may resort to destructive behaviors like chewing furniture, scratching doors, or tearing up pillows. If you’re a new dog parent, you might feel frustrated and wonder, "Why is my dog acting this way?" or "How can I stop this?"

The good news is that destructive behavior is preventable and fixable with the right approach. This guide will help you understand why dogs become destructive indoors and provide practical solutions to stop the behavior before it becomes a long-term habit.

Why Do Dogs Become Destructive Indoors?

Dogs don’t destroy things just to be “bad.” There is always an underlying reason. Most often, destructive behavior is a sign that a dog’s needs aren’t being met, whether that’s exercise, mental stimulation, or emotional security. Here are the most common reasons:

1. Boredom

Dogs need both physical and mental stimulation to stay happy. If they aren’t getting enough, they may find their own ways to stay entertained—by chewing, digging, or getting into things they shouldn’t.

Signs of boredom-related destruction:

• Chewing on furniture, shoes, or household items
• Digging at carpets or walls
• Excessive barking or whining
• Pacing or restlessness

2. Separation Anxiety

If your dog only acts destructively when left alone, the cause may be separation anxiety rather than boredom. Dogs with separation anxiety feel stressed and panicked when left by themselves, leading to behaviors like:

• Chewing on doors, window sills, or furniture
• Drooling or panting excessively when alone
• Barking or howling non-stop
• Attempting to escape by scratching at doors or breaking out of crates

3. Lack of Exercise

Dogs are naturally active animals, and different breeds have different energy levels. If they don’t get enough physical activity, they may use their energy in destructive ways—like tearing apart furniture or constantly begging for attention.

Signs your dog needs more exercise:

• Zooming around the house
• Destroying things out of excitement
• Constantly seeking attention

4. Teething (For Puppies)

Puppies go through a teething phase, just like human babies, and chewing helps relieve their discomfort. This is why young dogs are more likely to chew on things they shouldn’t.

Signs of teething-related chewing:

• Preference for hard objects (furniture legs, shoes)
• Increased chewing behavior
• Slightly swollen gums

5. Attention-Seeking Behavior

Some dogs act destructively because they’ve learned that it gets a reaction from their owners. If you immediately chase them or yell when they chew something, they may see this as a game—or simply enjoy the attention.

How to Stop Destructive Behavior Indoors

1. Provide Mental Stimulation

A mentally engaged dog is a well-behaved dog. Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity.

Ways to keep your dog mentally engaged:

• Puzzle toys: Treat-dispensing toys challenge your dog to think and problem-solve.
• Scent games: Hide treats around the house and encourage your dog to sniff them out.
• Training sessions: Teaching new tricks or commands provides mental exercise.

Rotate your dog’s toys every few days to keep them interested and excited.

2. Make Sure Your Dog Gets Enough Physical Exercise

Even if you can’t take your dog on long walks every day, you can still give them a great workout indoors:

• Tug-of-war: A great way to burn energy and bond with your dog.
• Indoor fetch: Roll a soft ball down a hallway for your dog to chase.
• Stair climbing: Running up and down stairs (if your dog is physically able) provides great exercise.

Some high-energy breeds, like Huskies and Border Collies, need at least one to two hours of exercise per day to stay happy and healthy.

3. Give Your Dog a Safe Space

Dogs need a comfortable, safe area where they can relax. This could be:

• A cozy crate (if they’re crate-trained)
• A dog bed in a quiet area
• A gated-off section of a room with their favorite toys

If your dog tends to get anxious when left alone, leaving soft music or a TV on can provide background noise and help them feel less isolated.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement (Not Punishment)

Punishing your dog after the fact won’t help—it just confuses them. Instead, focus on rewarding good behavior.

• Do this: Reward your dog when they chew the right toys or relax calmly.
• Don’t do this: Yell at your dog hours after they destroyed something—they won’t understand why they’re being scolded.

The key is to redirect behavior immediately and reinforce positive choices with praise, treats, or toys.

5. Address Separation Anxiety If Needed

If your dog’s destructive behavior is linked to separation anxiety, they need extra support to feel comfortable when alone.

• Practice short absences: Start by leaving for just a few minutes and gradually increase the time.
• Avoid making departures dramatic: Stay calm when leaving and returning so your dog doesn’t associate it with stress.
• Use comfort items: Leave a piece of your clothing with your scent to provide reassurance.

If separation anxiety is severe, consulting a professional dog trainer or veterinarian may be necessary.

6. Seek Professional Help If Needed

If your dog’s destructive behavior is severe or getting worse, talking to an expert may be the best solution.

• A dog trainer can provide behavior modification techniques.
• A veterinarian can check for underlying health conditions contributing to stress or anxiety.

Destructive behavior in dogs is usually a sign of boredom, anxiety, or lack of exercise—not intentional misbehavior. By addressing the root cause and providing consistent training, daily exercise, and mental stimulation, you can help your dog develop better habits and enjoy a happier, healthier life indoors.

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For more helpful dog care tips, check out the Joyride Blog. We know you love your furry friends just as much as we love ours, and our helpful hints will make it easier– and more fun– to care for them.