Puppies chew on whatever they can get their mouths on for any number of reasons: they are bored, they have a lot of energy, they are teething, or they are just curious. Dogs learn through their mouths. It is their tool; it is how they receive information about the world around them. They are naturally inclined to use their mouths whenever they can.
Fortunately, most destructive chewing behavior can be prevented or controlled. Learn how to prevent problem chewing and to direct your pup's natural inclination to chew toward appropriate objects.
Practice Puppy Proofing
Puppy proof all areas where she spends time. If possible, remove all items your puppy can chew on, including socks, shoes, furniture, and plants, from any area in which you confine your puppy. Make sure electrical cords are out of reach to prevent electrical burns from chewing on a cord.
Confine Your Pup
Your pup should be kept in a crate, cage, or puppy-proofed area when you are away. Because puppies learn with their mouths, giving your teething puppy free rein in the house is asking for trouble. Keep her confined; you do not want her to chew on your expensive living room furniture. Make sure to supply her with appropriate chew toys so your pup has something to do and to teach her what is appropriate to chew on.
Watch Her Closely
Supervise your uncrated pup at all times. Not unlike caring for a toddler, you should always be aware of where your uncrated puppy is and what she is doing. It only takes a second of distraction for your pup to get into trouble.
Give Her Chew Toys
The sole focus of your dog's chewing should be directed toward items you select. There are many items from which to choose including safe, long-lasting chew toys that are made especially for teething puppies. Find a toy that will keep her occupied and content for hours. Examples would be knotted rawhide and durable rubber teething products, like Kong toys, that satisfy your puppy's need for chewing and gum stimulation. Don't give your puppy an old shoe or sock to chew on. Puppies do not understand the difference between old and new.
Make Departures Low Key
Do not make a big deal of leaving your dog to avoid causing separation anxiety, which is often expressed through nonstop barking, whining, or destructive chewing. Before you leave, add your scent to your pup's toy. Rub the bone between your hands and give it to your puppy several minutes before you leave. This should keep her occupied so you can leave without a fuss being made.
Give Her Plenty of Exercise
Give your puppy plenty of exercise to relieve boredom and burn off energy two significant factors contributing to destructive chewing. An hour of running, walking, and/or swimming twice a day is ideal.
Don't Let Her Chew on Your Things
If you catch your puppy in the act of chewing anything but her chew toy, remove the object and replace it with an acceptable chew toy. If your puppy then chews on the toy, praise her. You always want to reinforce desired behavior with praise. If possible, treat the 'inappropriate object' with a product designed to deter chewing, such as bitter apple spray.
With a little time, patience, and training, you will soon have a well mannered pup who can be trusted alone in the house and not confined. Be consistent with your training and she will learn faster than you think.