Bulldogs are lovable, loyal, and full of personality, but like any other dog breed, they can develop some troublesome habits—chewing on furniture being one of the most common. Whether it’s a young puppy teething or an adult Bulldog acting out of boredom or stress, destructive chewing can cause frustration and costly damages.

In this guide, we’ll dive into why Bulldogs chew, what triggers the behavior, and most importantly, effective training tips to stop your Bulldog from chewing on furniture.

Why Do Bulldogs Chew on Furniture?

Understanding the root cause of your Bulldog’s chewing habit is essential for curbing it effectively. Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. Teething Puppies
   Young Bulldogs between 3 and 6 months of age are often teething, which can lead to excessive chewing as they try to soothe their sore gums.

2. Boredom
   Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and need mental and physical stimulation. If they’re bored, they may resort to chewing as a way to pass the time.

3. Separation Anxiety
   Bulldogs form strong bonds with their owners, and being left alone for long periods can lead to stress or anxiety, which often manifests as destructive chewing.

4. Exploration
   Puppies, in particular, use their mouths to explore the world around them. Furniture and other household items can become unintended chew toys.

5. Lack of Proper Training
   If Bulldogs are not taught early on what is acceptable to chew on, they may not understand the boundaries between their toys and your furniture.

6. Dietary Deficiencies
   Occasionally, chewing can be a sign of nutritional deficiencies, as dogs may chew to compensate for missing nutrients.

Effective Training Tips to Stop Your Bulldog from Chewing Furniture

Now that we understand the reasons behind the behavior, let’s explore some practical and effective tips to stop your Bulldog from chewing on furniture.

1. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

Giving your Bulldog suitable alternatives to furniture is the first step in redirecting their chewing habit.

How to Choose the Right Toys

• Durable and Safe: Bulldogs have strong jaws, so choose sturdy chew toys designed for aggressive chewers.

• Variety: Offer different textures, shapes, and sizes to keep your Bulldog interested.

• Interactive Options: Toys that dispense treats or make noise can keep your Bulldog entertained for longer.

Training Tip:

When you catch your Bulldog chewing furniture, calmly redirect them to their chew toy and reward them with praise or treats when they chew the correct item.

2. Puppy-Proof Your Home

If you have a young Bulldog, make it harder for them to access furniture or other items they shouldn’t chew.

Steps to Puppy-Proof

• Use Baby Gates: Block off areas with valuable furniture.

• Keep Temptations Out of Reach: Store shoes, cords, and other chewable items away from your Bulldog’s reach.

• Apply Furniture Covers: Consider using furniture covers or slipcovers as a temporary solution.

Training Tip:

Puppy-proofing is not a substitute for training but a way to minimize damage while your dog learns appropriate behavior.

3. Exercise Your Bulldog Regularly

A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Bulldogs may not be the most energetic breed, but they still require regular physical and mental stimulation.

Recommended Activities

• Daily Walks: Aim for at least 20–30 minutes of walking each day.

• Interactive Games: Play fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek with your Bulldog.

• Mental Stimulation: Use puzzle toys or practice training commands to engage their mind.

Training Tip:

Structured playtime and exercise can significantly reduce boredom-related chewing.

4. Use Deterrent Sprays

Deterrent sprays can be applied to furniture to make it less appealing to chew.

How to Use Deterrent Sprays

• Choose a dog-safe, bitter-tasting spray from a pet store.

• Apply it to the legs or edges of furniture where your Bulldog tends to chew.

• Reapply as needed, especially after cleaning or wiping the area.

Training Tip:

Combine deterrent sprays with positive reinforcement by praising and rewarding your Bulldog for chewing on appropriate toys instead.

5. Address Separation Anxiety

If your Bulldog’s chewing stems from anxiety when you’re away, work on reducing their stress levels.

Steps to Reduce Anxiety

• Gradual Departures: Practice leaving for short periods and gradually increase the time.

• Provide Comfort Items: Leave a piece of your clothing or a blanket with your scent to comfort them.

• Background Noise: Leave a TV or radio on to make your Bulldog feel less alone.

Training Tip:

Consider consulting a professional trainer or veterinarian if separation anxiety persists.

6. Establish Clear Boundaries

Teaching your Bulldog what they can and cannot chew on is crucial for long-term success.

How to Set Boundaries

• Use a Command: Teach commands like “Leave it” or “No” to redirect inappropriate chewing.

• Supervise Training Sessions: Watch your Bulldog closely, especially during the learning phase.

• Be Consistent: Ensure all family members enforce the same rules to avoid confusion.

Training Tip:

Avoid yelling or physical punishment, as it can cause fear or aggression. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.

7. Reward Good Behavior

Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective ways to train a Bulldog.

How to Reward Effectively

• Immediate Rewards: Give treats, praise, or playtime as soon as your Bulldog exhibits the desired behavior.

• Be Enthusiastic: Use an excited tone of voice to show your dog that they’ve done something right.

• Stay Consistent: Always reward good chewing habits to reinforce the behavior.

Training Tip:

Consistency and repetition are key. Over time, your Bulldog will learn that good behavior leads to positive outcomes.

8. Rule Out Medical Issues

If your Bulldog’s chewing seems excessive or unusual, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian.

Possible Medical Causes

• Teething Pain: Puppies may require more soothing options during teething.

• Dental Issues: Adult dogs with gum or tooth problems may chew to alleviate discomfort.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Ensure your Bulldog is on a balanced diet with the right vitamins and minerals.

Training Tip:

Addressing underlying medical issues can prevent future chewing problems.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While training your Bulldog, it’s important to avoid these common pitfalls:

1. Punishing After the Fact: Dogs don’t associate past actions with punishment. Redirect and reward good behavior instead.

2. Inconsistent Rules: Mixed messages confuse your Bulldog and slow their progress.

3. Neglecting Exercise: A bored or under-stimulated Bulldog is more likely to engage in destructive chewing.

Conclusion

Stopping your Bulldog from chewing on furniture requires patience, consistency, and understanding. By addressing the root cause of the behavior and implementing effective training techniques, you can guide your Bulldog toward better habits.

Remember, every Bulldog is unique, so tailor your approach to their individual needs. With time and effort, you’ll protect your furniture and build a stronger bond with your loyal companion.