Top Six Dog Breeds Prone to Chewing Walls and Creating Drywall Damage

Some dog owners face a peculiar challenge: their dogs chew on walls and create holes in the drywall. This behavior, while frustrating, is common among certain breeds. Here are the top six dog breeds known for this destructive habit and the reasons behind it.

Photo byAll Things NC - Dalle

1. Labrador Retrievers

Labradors are high-energy dogs that need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Without enough exercise, they can become bored and anxious, leading to destructive behaviors like chewing walls. Labradors also have strong jaws and a natural inclination to chew, making them more likely to target drywall if they don't have appropriate chew toys​ (WagWalking)​​ (Dog Care Checklist)​.

2. Jack Russell Terriers

Jack Russell Terriers are intelligent and highly energetic. These dogs require significant mental and physical engagement. If left unstimulated, they may resort to chewing on walls to relieve boredom or stress. Their tenacity and strong prey drive can also make them more likely to chew through walls if they hear or smell rodents inside​ (DoggySaurus)​.

3. Beagles

Known for their keen sense of smell and curiosity, Beagles often chew on walls out of boredom or in an attempt to get to something they sense behind the drywall. Their strong hunting instincts can drive them to destructive behaviors, especially if they are not adequately exercised or mentally stimulated​ (Dog Care Checklist)​.

4. Border Collies

Border Collies are one of the most intelligent and energetic breeds. They need constant mental challenges and physical activity. Without sufficient engagement, they can develop anxiety and turn to chewing walls as a coping mechanism. Their high energy levels mean they can cause significant damage if left unattended for too long​ (DoggySaurus)​.

5. Siberian Huskies

Huskies are known for their high energy and sometimes mischievous behavior. They are prone to destructive chewing when they are bored or anxious. Their natural urge to dig and chew can lead them to gnaw on walls, especially if they do not receive enough exercise and mental stimulation​ (Dog Care Checklist)​​ (My Dog Wes)​.

6. German Shepherds

German Shepherds are highly intelligent and active dogs that need regular mental and physical exercise. They can develop destructive chewing habits, including chewing on walls, if they are bored, anxious, or stressed. Providing them with appropriate outlets for their energy and engaging activities can help mitigate this behavior​ (WagWalking)​​ (Dog Care Checklist)​.

Understanding the Behavior

Several factors contribute to why these breeds chew on walls. Anxiety, boredom, teething in puppies, and a condition known as pica (where dogs eat non-food items) are common reasons. Some dogs may also chew walls if they hear noises behind them, such as rodents or insects​ (Dog Care Checklist)​​ (DoggySaurus)​.

Health Risks

Chewing on drywall poses several health risks to dogs. It can cause gastrointestinal blockages, choking, and toxicity from harmful substances like lead or asbestos in older homes. Symptoms of drywall ingestion include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. If a dog displays these symptoms after chewing drywall, immediate veterinary attention is necessary​ (Dog Care Checklist)​​ (DoggySaurus)​​ (My Dog Wes)​.

Preventive Measures

To prevent dogs from chewing walls, owners should ensure their pets get plenty of exercises, mental stimulation, and appropriate chew toys. Behavioral training, anxiety management, and environmental enrichment can also help. In severe cases, consulting a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviorist may be necessary to address underlying issues​ (WagWalking)​​ (DoggySaurus)​​ (My Dog Wes)​.

By understanding the breeds prone to this behavior and taking proactive measures, owners can better manage and prevent their dogs from turning walls into their chew toys.