10/05/2026
We hear all the time that people don’t buy their dogs toys anymore because they just tear them up.
Thats the worst reason to take toys away from them.
Your dog tears the toy up because… that’s the point!
Not every dog enjoys destroying their toys, but for the dogs that do, ripping, shredding, pulling, dissecting and pulling the stuffing out is natural and enjoyable way for them to play.
Dogs are wired to chew, tear, rip, shake and investigate things with their mouths. Letting them do that with an appropriate toy gives them an outlet for those natural behaviors. It can be mentally enriching and satisfying.
Instead of thinking, “My dog destroys everything,” think, “My dog really enjoys shredding things. How can I give them something appropriate to shred?”
And yes, we still need to teach them what they CAN’T destroy.
If your dog starts testing the couch, your kids’ stuffed animals, your shoes, etc., just redirect them to something they are allowed to have. Management matters too. Don’t leave tempting things laying around and expect your dog to make the right choice every time.
Give them appropriate outlets AND teach them what’s off limits. We can do both! 👍
Check out local thrift stores for cheap stuffed animals, or look for clearance stuffies. Just make sure there aren’t batteries, hard plastic parts, or anything else that could be dangerous if swallowed.
Also, a head of lettuce is a great option for some dogs! Especially for dogs that like to ingest as this is a safe option, but even if they don’t, it’s can still be so fun for them!!
A dog destroying their toy isn’t a behavior problem.
They’re just good at being a dog.
