When you’ve invested in your home decor and wardrobe, it makes sense to not want your dog to tear it all up. But you’re also probably well aware that dogs do chew on things, especially during the puppy stage. Still, it’s fair to want to at least be aware of which high-energy breeds are prone to gnawing on things. So, if you’re thinking of becoming a pet parent, keep reading to discover which 7 dog breeds are the biggest chewers. That way, you can know what you’re in for and how you can help train your pup so all of your shoes and belongings don’t get destroyed time after time.

“Chewing is a totally normal dog behavior,” says Nita Vasudevan, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance. “Chewing doesn’t mean a dog is bad, it can be a sign your dog is bored, under-exercised, teething, or anxious.” And, of course, chewing is a common habit in puppyhood, regardless of how a dog is feeling. “It’s important to point out all breeds chew. While puppies chew due to teething and exploration, many breeds continue to like chewing as they get older, especially if they are bored,” says Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel.

Whether you’re curious about dogs that chew a lot, or want to see if your current pooch falls into the category of destructive chewers, this guide highlights 7 popular dog breeds with a reputation for chewing. You may be surprised which ones are included. Though, keep in mind that if one of these are your dream furry companion, even the most mouthy pups can be redirected with proper training, care and guidance.

So, if you’ve ever wondered, “Which dog breeds are the biggest chewers?” read on to find out which pups need the most outlets for their chewing instincts—and how you can keep your home intact while still enjoying a playful, loving dog.

Related: The 5 Best Dog Breeds For First-Time Owners!

7 Dog Breeds That Chew the Most

Certain dog breeds are notorious for chewing everything in sight, from furniture to shoes. Understanding which dogs are the biggest chewers can help owners choose the right breed, provide proper chew toys, and prevent destructive behavior from constantly occuring.

Great Dane

Are Great Danes good pets? These large dogs are sweet and friendly, but they can develop destructive chewing habits if their energy and mental stimulation needs aren’t met.“ Great Danes have strong jaws that allow them to chew as a way of relaxing and staying busy,” Warner says. “It helps them manage boredom and minor anxiety, especially in puppies.”

Great Danes have oral stimulation needs both as puppies and older age, which is why Warner recommends having durable, well-sized chew toys for your Great Dane. This will help to keep them from gnawing on furniture or any other household items within reach. Additionally, keeping these high-energy dogs physically and mentally active can reduce the likelihood of random chewing, ensuring your Great Dane stays happy and your home stays safe.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Friendly, patient, dependable

Border Collie

Border Collies are one of the most energetic dog breeds that chew and often use chewing as a way to burn off excess energy. After all, this working dog breed was originally bred to herd sheep, so they love being busy and having a job to do. “Border Collies are very intelligent, working dogs that require mental and physical stimulation,” Warner says. “If their minds aren’t occupied, chewing becomes a way of maximizing excess energy.”

For Border Collies, the urge to chew on their bed or on a piece of furniture isn’t about jaw strength but about keeping their active minds busy. That doesn’t mean your Border Collie is destined to be destructive, they just need plenty of exercise, training, and mentally stimulating activities. Without these outlets, Border Collies may develop destructive chewing habits, so providing durable chew toys for dogs and puzzle games is essential to keep them happy and your home intact.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Energetic, affectionate, smart

Labrador Retriever

Labs make excellent family pets and companions for just about everyone. However, Labrador Retrievers are also a classic dog breed that loves to chew and can be surprisingly destructive if their energy isn’t channeled properly. “Labs are curious, mouthy and often stay puppy-like well into adulthood,” Vasudevan explains.

This is due to a combination of factors, she reveals. “These popular dogs were bred to retrieve, so using their mouths comes naturally,” Vasudevan says. “They are also high-energy.” As a result, if your Lab doesn’t get enough exercise or mental stimulation, they can be big chewers.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Active, friendly, outgoing

German Shepherd

One more dog breed known for chewing on everything? German Shepherds! These big dogs are the brainiacs of the dog world, with an impressive level of smarts that surfaces in nearly everything they do. “German Shepherds are intelligent, driven working dogs,” Vasudevan says. With that, these canine smarties need to keep their brains and bodies busy.

An active German Shepherd is a happy German Shepherd, but this pup also likes to be mentally stimulated. “Chewing can be a stress reliever or a way to burn off mental energy for this breed,” Vasudevan says. If there was ever a breed to invest in dog puzzles for, this is it.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Courageous, confident, smart

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are among the dog breeds that chew the most thanks to their strong jaws, high energy levels, and intelligence. According to Vasudevan, “As confident, powerful dogs, they often enjoy chewing simply because it feels good and keeps them occupied.” This makes Rottweilers one of the most destructive dog breeds if their physical and mental stimulation needs aren’t met.

Because Rottweilers are active, smart dogs, chewing can also serve as a form of entertainment when they’re bored or under-stimulated. To prevent destructive chewing habits, make sure your Rottweiler gets plenty of daily exercise, mental challenges, and access to durable chew toys for dogs. Providing the right outlets for energy and natural chewing instincts helps keep your Rottweiler happy while protecting your home.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Loyal, loving, confident guardian

Related: 5 Most Faithful Dog Breeds Who Love Unconditionally, According to Experts

Siberian Husky

When it comes to pretty dog breeds that chew a lot and are known for their destructive chewing habits, the Siberian Husky is no exception. Originally bred as sled dogs, Huskies have high energy levels and a natural drive to work, making them one of the most active and energetic dog breeds. Chyrle Bonk, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance, calls the Siberian Husky “a racer” for its ability to move at fast speeds, and notes that their genetic drive to do a job can translate into chewing and other high-energy behaviors.

How can you prevent dogs from chewing on furniture and other things? Keeping a Siberian Husky mentally and physically stimulated is key. Even with plenty of exercise, Huskies still have a tendency to chew, so providing durable chew toys for dogs is essential. For owners of high-energy chewers, having a variety of tough, safe toys can help protect your home from damage while keeping your Husky happy.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Loyal, outgoing, mischievous

Boxer

Another dog breeds known for chewing? The Boxer! This adorable and athletic breed is well-known for its high energy levels and loved for their muscular built. Boxers love to run and play, but if they don’t get enough activity, they could turn to chewing.

Keep in mind that this playful breed loves to sleep, too. So, if you can keep your Boxer busy and well-exercised, your pooch is more likely to nap during off-hours than gnaw on your couch. Still, having plenty of toys around will lower the risk your furniture and shoes will become targets.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Active, bright, fun-loving

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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Jan 20, 2026, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.