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My 2-year-old dog chews everything. How can I stop her at night?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 9 months old | 40 lbs

She is almost 2 years old and continues to chew many things - fabric like sheets and pillow cases, paper towels, underwear, etc.. She has chew toys which she loves as well, but we don't know how to stop her chewing these things. Is there a spray or other product we could put on these things? She often does it during the night when we can't discipline her in the moment. She is a mixed breed but is totally black and looks like a miniature black lab. Thank you.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 4th, 2018

You can try Bitter Apple spray, but I cannot guarantee that it won't stain fabrics, so you may want to spot test it first. Specifically regarding underwear, socks, etc; it is very important to get all family members to use a covered hamper so that these items are not lying around. Socks and underwear are VERY common causes of intestinal obstructions that require surgery. I understand your reservations about using a crate, however, most dogs actually like a crate, when its introduced as a safe recluse for the dog, and never as a punishment. Initially when introducing a crate, you don't close the dog in, rather get them comfortable with it as a nice place to rest. Check out the following article for good tips in introducing a crate. https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-crate-train-your-puppy-or-older-dog/ Thank you fro using PetCoach!

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    Answered By Bette Isacoff

    Dog Trainer

    Published on

    You are right in your thinking that you must correct a behavior in the moment. So you need to find a way to keep her from these objects when you can't watch her. A crate would be your best bet and yes--you can get an adult dog used to one. It should be just big enougfh for her to stand up and turn around in. Start by having it in the place where you'll have it long-term. After a day or two, start feeding her in front of it. Gradually move the bowl farther into the crate as she becomes accustomed to it (start with the bowl just inside the crate). Leave the door open at first. Once the bowl is all the way in the back of the crate, start to close the door as she eats, but open it as soon as she finishes. You can leave the door open for longer periods as she gets used to it. Don't open it if she's barking to get out! Ignore her until she is quiet, and then open it. Start to leave her inside for short periods every day, gradually lengthening the amount of time she's in it. You can get a Kong toy and put peanut butter inside so she can amuse herself for a while as she's in for longer sessions. Then you can begin to leave her in the crate for the night and when you are not home. Just remember never to let her out if she is fussing. (Be sure her bathroom needs are met before you put her in it.) Good luck with this!

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