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Why Does My Dog Take My Shoes? (+How to Stop the Stealing!)

Trying to figure out why your dog takes your shoes or why they might be stealing them? Today, we’ll explain what’s going on and how to stop your dog from stealing your shoes so you can quit stressing over your favorite footwear getting ruined. We’ll also cover if giving them an old pair is a good idea, and why they carry your shoes around. Let’s begin!

Why Does My Dog Take My Shoes?

Why Does My Dog Take My Shoes?

Your dog takes your shoes primarily due to their scent, which carries your smell, making them particularly appealing. This behavior can also stem from a desire for attention, boredom, or the urge to chew which can be driven by instinct or anxiety. Chewing releases soothing endorphins for dogs.

Why Does My Dog Steal My Shoes?

Your dog steals your shoes because they find comfort in your scent or see the action as a playful way to engage with you. Shoes, being easily accessible and often left unattended, become perfect targets for a dog’s curiosity or chewing needs.

This behavior is also a way for dogs to express their instincts and explore their environment.

Dog Stealing Shoes, Is It Okay to Give Old Pair?

Giving your dog an old pair of shoes to chew on might seem like a practical solution, but it can actually reinforce the behavior you’re trying to stop. It may confuse your dog about which shoes are acceptable to chew and which are not.

Instead, provide them with appropriate chew toys that satisfy their urge to chew without risking your footwear.

Dog Steals Shoes: How to Stop

  • Keep shoes out of reach or in a closed closet to remove the temptation.
  • Provide plenty of suitable chew toys that are more appealing than shoes. Rotate these toys to keep your dog interested.
  • Engage in more playtime and exercise with your dog to reduce boredom and excess energy that might be directed towards your shoes.
  • Spray a 50/50 mix of distilled white vinegar and water on your shoes. You won’t be able to smell it after about an hour but the scent will continue to repel your dog. Be sure to check that it’s safe on your shoe’s material first.
  • Train your dog on the “leave it” command to get them away from things like your shoes instantly. Start with a treat in your hand and let your dog sniff it, then close your hand around the treat. Say ‘leave it.’ Wait until your dog stops sniffing and nibbling at your hand. As soon as they back away, praise them and give them the treat. Practice regularly.

Addressing your dog stealing your shoes involves a mix of preventive measures, providing appropriate alternatives for chewing, and consistent training. It’s important to remember, however, that the underlying behavioral issues (anxiety, boredom, attention-seeking, etc.) that were causing all of this to begin with will still be present.

And until you address those, any positive changes you see will only be temporary.

“Well, how do I make these changes last?”

By getting your dog to truly choose to follow your direction, that’s how. I tried many times to write out how you can do that before deciding it made more sense to just link you to the free video series that explains it better than I’d ever be able to.

The series is by a man named Dan who is one of the world’s leading dog obedience trainers. In it, he teaches you how to put an end to things like your dog taking your shoes and all other misbehavior using his fast and easy-to-follow methods.

In the first video, Dan will reveal to you why the two most common methods of dog training only doom you to failure. You can watch the video now by clicking here. Follow the proven system he’ll show you in his series and you’ll never have to spend another second worrying about your dog stealing shoes ever again!

Why Does My Dog Carry My Shoes Around?

Why Does My Dog Steal My Shoes?

Your dog carries your shoes around because they are drawn to your scent on them, which provides comfort and a sense of closeness to you. This behavior can also be a sign of affection, boredom, or the playful and curious nature of your dog.

Why Does My Dog Move My Shoes When I Leave?

Your dog moves your shoes when you leave as a way of coping with separation anxiety or simply because they miss you. The scent on the shoes reminds them of you, offering a comforting presence.

This action can also be their way of keeping something of yours close, which helps them feel less alone. You may also find your dog stealing your socks for similar reasons. Learn a command to stop your dog from taking your shoes by going back to the first section now.

Why Does My Dog Take My Shoes to Her Bed?

Your dog takes your shoes to her bed because she finds comfort in your scent, which helps her feel secure and relaxed. Your dog sleeping on your shoes indicates a strong bond and a desire to be close to you, even in your absence. It’s also a sign of possessiveness, viewing your shoes as valuable items worth keeping in a safe place.

Why Does My Puppy Grab My Shoes and Run Away?

Your puppy grabs your shoes and runs away often for play. This behavior can be a playful invitation to chase them, a common game for puppies that also mimics their natural predatory instincts. It’s also a way for them to explore their environment and engage with objects that smell strongly of their favorite person – you.

In conclusion, a dog carrying shoes around can have multiple underlying reasons, from seeking comfort and expressing affection to playful behavior and curiosity. While this behavior is generally harmless, ensuring your dog has appropriate toys and engaging in regular play and exercise can help redirect their attention away from your shoes.

I’m sure you’re ready to get started now that you have all of your questions about your dog steals your shoes answered, so I’ll let you get going on things. Best wishes, and thank you for checking out our article “Why Does My Dog Take My Shoes? (+How to Stop the Stealing!)”.

The Author

KB Williams

KB Williams

Hey there! I'm a dog behavior expert and lover of travel. Since 2016, I've been sharing my knowledge of dog training and behavior while exploring the Pacific Northwest with my two rescues.