Dogs chew on towels due to boredom, teething, anxiety, or even attraction to their owner’s scent. To stop it, remove towel access, offer chew-safe toys, and redirect behavior through consistent positive training.
Understanding Dog Chewing Habits: What’s Really Going On?
Dogs chew towels for one of a few clear reasons —
They’re bored
They’re teething (if a puppy)
They’re anxious or stressed
They’re drawn to your scent
Or they’ve developed a compulsive habit
In a similar way, some dogs scratch the carpet due to anxiety, boredom, or nesting instincts. It’s their way of releasing energy or creating a comfortable space, especially when left alone or under-stimulated.
Common Reasons Why Dogs Chew on Towels
Teething in Puppies
Just like babies, puppies experience discomfort during teething. Chewing helps relieve that pressure.
- Towels are soft but tough enough to bite
- Texture helps soothe swollen gums
- Cold, damp towels can feel especially comforting
Tip: Freeze a damp towel to offer supervised relief — but always watch closely to avoid fabric ingestion.
Boredom and Lack of Stimulation
Dogs need daily mental and physical engagement. Without it, they seek self-made entertainment — like towel chewing.
- Lack of exercise = pent-up energy
- No toys = they improvise with laundry
- Monotony = chewing becomes a repetitive outlet
How to fix:
- Daily walks or play sessions
- Introduce puzzle toys
- Use sniff mats to encourage scent-driven tasks
Anxiety or Stress Behavior
Chewing becomes a coping mechanism when dogs feel anxious or isolated.
- Separation anxiety is a major cause
- New environments, people, or routines can be stressors
- Chewing your towel = comfort through your scent
What to look for:
- Chewing only happens when you’re gone
- Accompanied by pacing, whining, or destruction
- They go straight for used towels or laundry
Attention-Seeking Habit
Dogs are clever. If towel-chewing earns your attention (even negative), they’ll do it again.
- Yelling or chasing reinforces the behavior
- Ignoring them while rewarding good behavior can flip the pattern
Redirecting this:
- Train commands like “leave it”
- Praise when they chew the right item
- Never reward bad behavior with your attention
Medical or Dental Discomfort
Underlying pain can make dogs chew obsessively to self-soothe.
- Dental problems: inflamed gums, loose teeth
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Pica (compulsive eating of non-food items)
When to act:
- If chewing seems excessive or frantic
- If they swallow fabric or refuse food
- Schedule a vet visit for diagnostics
Compulsive or Obsessive Tendencies
Dogs can develop repetitive chewing due to poor early training or lack of routine.
- Some breeds are more prone
- Lack of structure feeds the habit
- Often paired with other repetitive actions like tail chasing or licking
Is It Normal for Dogs to Chew on Fabric Like Towels?
Yes — to an extent. But here’s when it’s a red flag:
Difference Between Playful and Destructive Chewing
- Playful: light chewing, playful posture
- Destructive: tearing towels apart, swallowing fabric
When It Becomes a Behavioral Issue
- If it escalates or causes damage
- If it’s the only thing they chew
- If they guard the towel aggressively
Signs It’s Time to Intervene
- They’re eating parts of the towel
- Chewing becomes obsessive
- There’s risk of intestinal blockage
How to Stop Your Dog From Chewing on Towels
1. Remove Temptation and Supervise
- Keep towels and laundry hidden
- Use closed hampers or dog-proof cabinets
- Block access to laundry or bathroom areas
2. Provide Safe Alternatives
- Offer chew toys, dental chews, and puzzle games
- Rotate toys weekly to keep interest high
- Choose textures that mimic towel fabric
3. Train Redirection Commands
- Teach “Leave it” or “Drop it” using treats
- Reward when your dog switches focus
- Consistency matters — every time
4. Use Anti-Chew Sprays and Deterrents
- Bitter apple sprays (vet-approved) work well
- Spray towels consistently — but don’t punish
- Combine with training for lasting results
5. Address Underlying Anxiety or Boredom
- Add 30 minutes of play or training daily
- Use puzzle feeders or lick mats
- Try scent-based enrichment like nose work
Breed-Specific Chewing Behavior (Often Ignored)
Not all dogs chew the same way. Certain breeds are naturally more oral.
- Labradors, Beagles, Golden Retrievers: love to chew
- Working breeds: need more physical stimulation
- Toy breeds: often chew for comfort or scent
What to do:
- Match chew solutions to energy level
- Double down on mental tasks for working breeds
- Use plush toys or small chews for smaller dogs
When to Worry: Medical Causes Behind Towel Chewing
Sometimes chewing isn’t behavioral at all. Watch for:
Gastrointestinal Issues
- Dogs with upset stomachs may eat fabric
- Risk: blockage, vomiting, lethargy
Dental Pain or Gum Infections
- Swollen, red gums
- Refusal to eat kibble
- Only chewing soft materials like towels
Pica (Eating Non-Food Items)
- May indicate nutritional deficiencies
- Common in puppies and some senior dogs
- Needs vet diagnosis and bloodwork
What Not to Do When Your Dog Chews on Towels
Avoid Yelling or Physical Discipline
- Increases anxiety
- Can make chewing worse
Don’t Give Attention When Dog Chews Towels
- Even shouting is attention
- Walk away, wait for calm, then redirect
Never Let Them “Keep” the Towel
- Reinforces ownership
- Makes training harder
Prevention Tips for Long-Term Behavior Change
Consistency Is Key
- Everyone in the house must follow same training
- No exceptions for towel chewing
Structured Routines and Enrichment
- Morning walk + puzzle toy = success
- Use scheduled playtime and chew breaks
Crate Training and Safe Zones
- Crate can be a safe, chew-free zone
- Provide approved chew items inside only
FAQs About Dogs Chewing Towels
Why does my puppy love chewing on towels?
Puppies chew due to teething and curiosity. Towels are soft, accessible, and often smell like you.
Is towel chewing dangerous for dogs?
Yes, if they ingest fabric. It can cause intestinal blockage and serious health issues.
What age do dogs stop chewing everything?
Most stop by 1.5 years, but habits can linger without training.
Should I punish my dog for chewing towels?
No. Punishment worsens the behavior. Use positive redirection and consistency.
