5 Effective Strategies to Keep Your Dog Away from Household Items

Dogs are curious creatures. Their natural instinct to explore with their mouths often leads them to chew or carry off household items like shoes, laundry, kids' toys, and bags. This behavior can be frustrating and sometimes costly for pet owners. Teaching your dog to leave these everyday objects alone takes patience and consistent training, but it’s entirely possible with the right approach.

This guide shares five practical strategies to help you protect your belongings and keep your dog safe.

Understand Why Dogs Target Household Items

Before training, it helps to understand why dogs grab items like shoes or toys. Dogs explore the world through their mouths, and chewing is a natural behavior that relieves boredom, teething discomfort, or anxiety. Sometimes, household items carry your scent, making them more attractive.

If your dog is chewing on kids' toys or laundry, it might be because they want attention or are seeking comfort. Recognizing the reason behind the behavior allows you to address the root cause, not just the symptom.

Strategy 1: Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

One of the best ways to stop your dog from chewing on shoes or bags is to offer appealing alternatives. Dogs need to chew, so giving them safe, durable chew toys satisfies this urge.

• Choose toys that match your dog’s size and chewing strength.

• Rotate toys regularly to keep your dog interested.

• Praise your dog when they chew on their toys instead of household items.

  
  

For example, if your dog tends to steal kids' toys, provide similar but dog-safe toys. This redirects their attention and reduces the temptation to grab forbidden objects.

Strategy 2: Use Clear Commands and Consistent Training

Teaching your dog a reliable command like “leave it” or “no” can prevent them from picking up unwanted items. Consistency is key.

• Start training in a distraction-free environment.

• Hold a household item in your hand and say “leave it.”

• When your dog ignores the item, reward them with a treat and praise.

• Gradually increase difficulty by placing items on the floor and practicing the command.

  
  

Repeat this exercise daily. Over time, your dog will learn to associate the command with leaving objects alone.

Strategy 3: Manage Your Environment

Preventing access to tempting items reduces the chance your dog will grab them.

• Store shoes in closets or on high shelves.

• Keep laundry baskets out of reach or use covered hampers.

• Put kids' toys away after playtime.

• Use baby gates or closed doors to restrict access to certain rooms.

  
  

By managing your environment, you reduce opportunities for your dog to practice unwanted behaviors.

Strategy 4: Redirect and Reward Positive Behavior

When you catch your dog approaching or chewing on household items, calmly redirect their attention to an approved toy or activity.

• Use a cheerful voice to call your dog away.

• Offer a toy or start a game to distract them.

• Reward your dog immediately when they engage with the right item.

  
  

Positive reinforcement strengthens good habits and helps your dog understand what is acceptable.

Strategy 5: Address Underlying Causes of Chewing

Sometimes, chewing household items signals boredom, anxiety, or lack of exercise.

• Increase daily walks and playtime to burn off energy.

• Provide mental stimulation through puzzle toys or training sessions.

• Create a safe, comfortable space where your dog feels secure.

  
  

If anxiety seems to be the cause, consult a veterinarian or professional trainer for tailored advice.