Why does my puppy eat paper? How do I stop this chewing habit?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 53 lbs
Why does my puppy like to eat paper/paper towels? He eats any type of paper he gets his paws on, newspaper, paper towels, magazines and so forth. We redirect him and he gets plenty of food and treats so I’m not sure what’s going on or how to stop the behavior.. any ideas as to why he does this?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on January 8th, 2018
Young dogs can be very oral and want to chew and play with things. Sometimes dogs develop “favorite” things to chew on. Unfortunately there is nothing you can do to immediately stop him. However, frequently changing toys, keeping paper products out of his reach, maybe teaching him to only pick up something to chew or ear if given the release word. This takes time, patience, and repetition, but it can be done. I would also recommend blood work to verify that nothing else abnormal is going on, but likely it is behavioral. Best of luck and keep working at it. He will slowly improve. Thank you for using Pet Coach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 6th, 2017
Many puppies (and even adult dogs!) enjoy ripping up paper - they seem to enjoy the sensation of grabbing it and tearing it up :) This is very normal, and nothing to be worried about at all. I would recommend keeping paper products like napkins, toilet paper, etc. out of his reach for now. It's likely that he will become less interested in them as he gets older.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 9th, 2018
Young dogs are very oral and this is a normal behavior for them. Try to purchase toys that are meant for chewing such as rawhide, Kong toys etc. lots and lots of exercise for mental and physical stimulation, and taking away or preventing access to the things you don’t want him chewing on. The chewing desire lasts for the first few years and sometimes beyond that. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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