Why Is My Dog Leash Chewing Through? (And How to Stop It)

The short answer: Dogs chew through leashes because it feels good, relieves stress, or simply because they see it as a toy. The fix involves redirecting that energy, teaching impulse control, and sometimes choosing a more durable leash material. Let’s break down the reasons and give you a step by step plan to save your leashes.

Why Dogs Chew Leashes: The Real Reasons

Leash chewing is rarely about the leash itself. It’s usually a symptom of something else. Here are the most common triggers:

• Boredom and excess energy: If your dog doesn’t get enough physical or mental exercise, they’ll find their own entertainment. The leash becomes a convenient chew toy during walks or while waiting.
• Anxiety or frustration: If your dog is nervous about something in the environment (other dogs, noise) or frustrated that they can’t go where they want, they may take it out on the nearest object, which is often the leash.
• Teething (for puppies): Puppies go through a phase where everything goes in their mouth. The leash is no exception.
• Attention seeking: If your dog learns that chewing the leash gets your attention (even if it’s negative), they might keep doing it. It’s a surefire way to get you to look at them.
• A bad habit: Sometimes it’s just a habit that started when they were a puppy, and they’ve never been taught otherwise.

How to Stop Leash Chewing: Immediate Solutions

The moment your dog starts chewing on the leash, you need to redirect. Here’s what to do:

• Freeze and disengage: Stop walking. Let the leash go completely slack. Don’t pull it away (that becomes a game of tug).
• Offer a better alternative: Have a chew toy or treat ready. As soon as they release the leash, say “yes” and give them the toy. This teaches them that chewing the toy gets a reward, not the leash.
• Use a bitter deterrent: You can find bitter apple sprays or other non toxic deterrents meant for dogs. Spray the leash before the walk. If your dog tries to chew, they’ll get a bad taste. But be consistent and supervise, as some dogs get used to it.
• Change your walking position: Keep the leash short and hold it high, so your dog can’t easily reach it. If they try to chew, they’ll hit your hand instead, which you can gently block.

Training Techniques to Break the Habit Long Term

Beyond the moment, you need to address the underlying cause. Here are training methods that work:

• Teach “leave it” and “drop it”: Practice these commands at home with toys and treats. Then transfer them to the leash. The goal is to make the leash a forbidden object unless you say it’s okay.
• Exercise before walking: Take your dog for a quick run or play fetch before the actual walk. A tired dog is less likely to be nippy.
• Use a front clip harness or head halter: These tools can prevent your dog from getting into the position where they can easily mouth the leash. If they can’t reach it, the habit may fade.
• Mental stimulation: Give your dog puzzle toys, snuffle mats, or training sessions. A mentally tired dog is calmer.
• Address anxiety: If you suspect anxiety, work with a professional trainer or your vet. They can help create a desensitization plan.

Choosing a Leash That Resists Chewing

While training is the ultimate fix, sometimes you need a leash that can withstand some abuse while you work on it. Here’s what to look for:

• Material: Avoid thin nylon or leather that can be easily punctured. Look for heavy duty materials like biothane (a waterproof, wipeable plastic), chain leashes, or ropes made of climbing grade material. Some leashes have a steel core inside a softer cover, which is great.
• Thickness: A thicker leash is harder to chew through.
• Length: A shorter leash (4 to 6 feet) gives you more control and less slack for your dog to grab.
• Hardware: Even if the leash material is tough, check that the clips are sturdy. A dog can chew on the clip area and potentially break it.

For a detailed comparison of the best options, check this dog leash buying guide to see which ones resist chewing best.

What Not to Do (Common Mistakes)

Avoid these pitfalls that can make the problem worse:

• Punishing after the fact: If you find a chewed leash after the fact, don’t scold your dog. They won’t connect the punishment to the chewing. It will only make them anxious.
• Tugging the leash away: This turns it into a game. Your dog might enjoy the interaction.
• Leaving your dog unattended with a leash: If you have a chewer, don’t leave a leash on them in the house or yard. They might chew it and potentially ingest pieces, which is dangerous.
• Ignoring the root cause: If you just buy a tougher leash but don’t address why they chew, they may simply find something else to destroy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it dangerous if my dog eats a piece of the leash?

Yes, it can be dangerous. Ingesting fabric or plastic can cause an intestinal blockage, which may require surgery. If you suspect your dog swallowed a piece, call your vet immediately.

How long does it take to break the habit?

It depends on the dog and the cause. With consistent training, most dogs show improvement within a few weeks. If it’s anxiety related, it might take longer and may need professional help.

Can I use a chain leash to stop chewing?

A chain leash can be a temporary deterrent, but it’s not ideal for all dogs. Chains are heavy and can hurt you if your dog pulls. Also, some dogs dislike the sound. It’s better to use a chew resistant material like biothane that is safe and comfortable.

Final Thoughts

Leash chewing is a common issue, but with patience and the right approach, you can stop it. Focus on giving your dog plenty of exercise, training the “leave it” command, and supervising all leash use. If you need a new leash, choose a durable one that can handle some chewing while you work on the behavior. Remember, the goal is to have a happy, relaxed dog that sees the leash as a tool for adventure, not a chew toy.

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