Wondering what breed of dogs chew the most? Whether you’re looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home — but you’re wondering what breed causes the most mayhem — or you suspect your dog is one of the main chewers, we’ve got all the information right here.
Boredom is one of the most common reasons why dogs will chew. If your dog is bored, you’re more likely to come home and find a chunk taken out of your cushion or that your trusty pair of slippers are now in pieces. If you’ve been there before, you’ll know it’s impossible to stay mad at your little bundle of joy for too long. Especially when you’re greeted with a cheeky grin and a wagging tail. But one of the best ways to stop your dog from destructing everything in its path is to have something for them to chew on — like the longest lasting dog chews.
However, some dogs chew because it’s part of their DNA and makeup. For example, most of the time, the dogs that tend to chew the most are the breeds that are bred to be more active working dogs — which means they need to be stimulated more often, both mentally and physically.
But it’s also important to keep in mind that each dog is different. Just like humans, dog personalities are varied and highly dependent on their upbringing. For example, you may own a dog on this list and never have dealt with any chewing problems. Or you might have a breed that doesn’t feature on this list but tends to leave a path of destruction. To discover the breeds with the most destructive behavior, keep scrolling.
PetsRadar’s top 10 dogs that chew the most
1. Boxer
Boxers are a breed that needs A LOT of exercise. Without exercise and mental stimulation, they may put their energy into other things, like your favorite dress or pair of shoes (and no, we don’t mean dress up, although this would be cute!). They love to sink their teeth into things, so it’s best to keep them occupied with lots of yummy chew toys such as flavored bones and Dentasticks. Make sure they're mentally and physically stimulated as well, and that they go to a trainer as a pup to ensure they have good habits as they grow up.
2. Labrador
Cute but fierce, Labradors are a bit goofy and playful, and always want to keep busy. This type of active breed needs lots of interaction, otherwise, when left with nothing to do all day, they could very well turn to chewing the closest thing they can find. This is nothing a game of fetch can’t solve, along with some of the best durable dog toys to keep them challenged when indoors. Remember, a mentally and physically stimulated dog is a happy (well-behaved) dog.
- What are the benefits of homemade dog food?
- Best dog food for allergies: Keep your canine companion fighting fit
- Best dog brushes: Keep your dog’s mane looking sleek and shiny
3. Labradoodle
The playful Labradoodle, a cross between a Labrador and a Poodle, is possibly one of the most excitable dog breeds. They need a lot of attention, and they have a very playful and jovial nature, which naturally makes them one of the dog breeds that chews the most. The Labradoodle is best trained early with the best puppy toys to help them channel their destructive behavior into things that aren’t your personal items.
4. Jack Russell
It’s not just large dog breeds that like to chew - small dog breeds that were bred for hunting tend to be very high energy, too. Like the Jack Russell, a little ball of energy that loves picking up and munching on anything they can find. There’s no doubt they’d get their hands on your pair of slippers the minute you turn your back, so be sure to keep lots of toys on hand and give them plenty of time outdoors to pick up sticks and play ball.
5. Beagle
Beagles were bred as hunting dogs, and they love to eat pretty much anything they can find. Stuffed toys, clothing, shoes, you name it, they’ll try to eat it! To keep beagle’s occupied, you can try giving them lots of treats, and get them some of the best cheap dog toy deals, so it won’t matter if they destroy them within five minutes of getting their paws on them.
6. Border Collie
Border Collies are very playful dogs, they love to be outdoors and seem to have limitless amounts of energy. They’re incredibly intelligent, which means without regular physical and mental stimulation, they may turn to naughty behavior, such as chewing. Get outside and engage in some sports – throwing a ball or frisbee will allow them to put all their energy into chasing it and retrieving it.
7. Chihuahua
Small but feisty! The Chihuahua has a very sassy temperament, and they like to be the centre of attention. They’ll likely chew their way through anything to get you to notice them, and they won’t be sorry about it. Chihuahuas can often experience separation anxiety and get bored easily, which is what leads them to chew on things, especially when you’re not there.
8. Bulldog
Bulldogs may look tough, but they are big softies really. Believe it or not, they can suffer from separation anxiety, which can lead to them taking their frustration out through chewing. This could be anything from pillows to carpets or the post. If you need to leave your Bulldog alone in the house while you go out, consider a big walk beforehand to tire them out, or look into getting them an interactive friend like the Skymee Owl Robot to soothe any nerves.
9. Golden Retriever
They may look like butter wouldn’t melt, but Golden Retrievers need plenty of attention otherwise they can throw a bit of a hissy fit. The clue is in the name ‘retriever’ – they are used to having things in their mouth. Leaving them alone for hours on end will likely result in you coming home to a doggy crime scene. Don’t leave papers, books, toys or anything that you don’t want to be destroyed in their sight. Be sure to give Golden Retrievers lots of time outdoors as well as treats and cuddles at home to keep them occupied.
10. Weinmaraner
It’s probably no surprise that the Weinmaraner is one of the dogs that chew the most. These pups are huge, with a stubborn temperament, which means they’ll chew pretty much anything they can get their hands on. Taking them on lots of walks and tiring them out with playtime is the best way to keep their nashers off your knickers.
Of course most pup’s mean well, but if you think your pup’s chewing is getting out of control, you can always check out our guides on how to stop dog aggression and how to train your dog with treats to keep them calm and happy.
Don’t forget to pick up some of the best dog chew toys to give your pup something safe to gnaw on, as well as providing your dog with some options with the longest lasting dog chews and the best rope dog toys.
