We’re here to help you break this down into two major parts: why dogs destroy things when you’re gone and what you can do to stop it.

The other day I got a message from a frustrated pup parent asking, "How do I stop my dog from destroying things when I'm gone?!"

You come home from an errand to find your favorite pair of shoes chewed, or the couch cushion ripped, or an unidentifiable mess in the corner. And lo and behold, there’s your dog, with a somewhat guilty look in their eyes. (Is it really guilt? We'll cover that later...)

If you’ve become frustrated by the fact that you don’t know how to stop your dog from destroying things, don’t worry, you’re not alone.

The good news is that more often than not, there are simple solutions to address the underlying cause and stop it from happening again. And no, the underlying cause is not that your dog is being bad or is mad at you!

Why Do Dogs Destroy Things When I’m Gone?

How to Stop Dog From Destroying Things When I’m Gone

Recap of Dogs Destroying Things When Left Alone

Video of How to Stop Dogs from Destroying Things

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Podcast Episode of How to Stop Your Dog's Destruction in the Home

And of course, here's an episode from the Perfect Pup Podcast to help you overcome your dog's destruction in your home!

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Why Do Dogs Destroy Things When I'm Gone?

First and foremost, your dog does not hate you for leaving. And also, let's clarify that "guilty look" we talked about earlier... it's (likely) not guilt.

Science has proven that's not how it works... Read more about that here!

Now that we’ve cleared that pet parent guilt, let’s talk about the real reasons dogs can be destructive when left alone.

There are legitimate reasons why our dogs aren’t always good boys and girls when we leave. Understanding those reasons can help us address our dogs’ needs!

When pups are young, it’s important to keep them within a confined space, even when you are home, until they are fully trained and familiar with their surroundings.

Otherwise, young pups can become easily overwhelmed. Also, they likely don't yet know what is a toy and what is not.

Hence, them chewing on your slippers, table, baseboards, etc..

Expecting your brand new puppy to know that they shouldn't chew shoes is like expecting an infant to know not to put things in their mouth...

Here's a simple math equation to help us all remember how to think about freedom for our young dogs... ?

I know that's pretty harsh... but in most cases (especially with young puppies), it's true!!

So, we'll cover the solution later (or click below to jump to that section).

Most canine behavioral problems stem from a lack of mental and physical exercise.

Most dogs need between 30 minutes and two hours of exercise (physical/mental) per day, depending on the size and breed.

Not enough exercise causes pups to get bored and have a lot of energy bottled up, which usually gets taken out on your favorite pair of shoes.

As they say, idle paws are a devil’s plaything -- bored doggies with built-up energy are bound to end up getting into trouble.

Separation anxiety is more common in dogs than many people realize -- we’ll get into what you can do for it a little later.

If, on top of destructive behaviors, your neighbors have told you that your dog barks/howls a lot when you are gone, it’s a good chance your dog is anxious when left home alone.

We'll talk later about how to figure out if it's anxiety!

How to Stop Dog from Destroying Things When I’m Gone

The best way to stop your dog from destroying things while you are gone is to address the root cause.

Whether it be too much freedom, a lack of exercise, or separation anxiety, there are things you can do to address your dog’s needs and stop the destructive behavior.

Here are some things you can do to help your dog -- and your household items -- better survive time alone.

Solution #1- Limit Their Freedom with a Crate, Play Pen, or Dog-Proofed Area

Utilize crate training. Crate training is a great tool for getting dogs used to relaxing in a designated space and staying out of mischief when unsupervised.

Crates help dogs get used to being alone, and find comfort by having their own 'safe space'.

Be sure to use a crate that’s an appropriate size for your dog and give them something to occupy themselves while in the crate -- these dog chews can be a great choice since they are made with simple, healthy ingredients and help keep teeth clean. (Be sure to monitor your pup when first giving them new chews.)

Check out our full video lesson found in the 30 Day Perfect Pup Course (it's free!). Sign up here.

If crate training isn’t an option, be sure to limit your dog’s freedom when you are not home.

Here are some alternatives to crate training:

The same principles apply here -- it’s best to give your dog a chew (or something similar) to occupy them so they don’t get bored even in a larger space.

Solution #2- Give Your Dog Plenty of Exercise (Mental & Physical)

Utilize the time you are home to let your dog stretch their legs -- and their brain.

A couple of walks and games throughout the day is usually enough to do the trick, though some active breeds might need a little more intense exercise.

How to Stop Dog from Destroying Things When I’m Gone | Pupford