How do I get my dog to stop biting the couch/upholstered chairs for attention?

I know how frustrating this can be - watching your pup chew up the furniture can really test your patience. The good news is, there's a proven way to get to the root of this behavior and put an end to the destructive habits for good. The core issue here is that your dog is turning to the couch/chairs as a way to get your attention, even if it's negative attention. They're feeling bored, anxious, or pent-up energy and don't have an appropriate outlet. The Seasonal Adaptation Strategy in our guide talks about how dogs need mental and physical stimulation that matches their natural rhythms and instincts. Without that, they'll find their own (destructive) ways to get your focus. The first step is to create a solid foundation with the Traffic Light System. This helps your pup learn the difference between "go" (appropriate chew toys), "slow" (leaving the couch alone), and "stop" (no biting). Interrupt them the instant they go for the furniture, redirect to an approved toy, and reward heavily when they listen. Removing access to the problem areas can also help in the short term. Alongside that, you'll want to focus on Threshold Management. This means gradually exposing them to furniture in a way that keeps them under their stress threshold so they can stay calm and compliant. Pair this with plenty of enrichment activities to burn off that excess energy - things like sniff walks, puzzle feeders, and structured play sessions. When you get this system dialed in, you'll see a huge shift. Your pup will have the tools to self-regulate, you'll be able to relax without constant supervision, and your home will stay intact. It just takes some consistency and creativity, but the payoff is so worth it.