Dogs can wreak havoc on the legs or cushions of your outdoor patio furniture by using them as their personal chew toys. While providing your own pets with chew toys or using obedience-training methods may keep them from destroying your outdoor furniture, it may be necessary to use a spray repellent to reinforce areas you want them (or neighbors' dogs) to stay away from.
Citrus
Use lemon juice or other strong citrus on your furniture to keep dogs away, according to Pet Net.
Although humans tend to enjoy the taste and smell of citrus, dogs have completely different tastes. An old home remedy for keeping dogs from sniffing around and digging in flower beds includes the use of orange and lemon peels and the use of lemon juice as a spray to repel dogs from other objects such as furniture. Dogs find citrus offensive and tend to avoid anything that has the smell or taste of citrus. Use concentrated lemon juice as a first choice as it is very bitter and has a strong odor. It is also safe on most surfaces.
Cayenne
Use cayenne pepper mixed with water to coat the areas the dog usually chews, and it will likely stay away after the first encounter. Cayenne (often labeled crushed red pepper) is a common culinary ingredient, and it is often the active ingredient in commercial pet repellents. Cayenne contains capsaicum, which causes irritation to the eyes, nose, throat and paws of the dog when it comes in direct contact with the spice, according to Pet Net. The dry powdered spice can be rubbed directly on chair legs, or it can be combined with water for a similar effect.
Vinegar
Spray vinegar directly on the surfaces of the furniture you want to keep dogs from chewing. While vinegar is commonly used in foods and enjoyed by people, dogs dislike the taste and overwhelming smell of it. Any type of vinegar will work, but white vinegar is probably the most bitter and does not have any color, which might stain certain surfaces.
Managing A Chewer
Take action to prevent your dog's destructive behavior by discouraging the problem to begin with. There are many ways to teach your dog what is appropriate and inappropriate. Much of the solution begins with the owner. Keep your dog isolated when you are not around until he thoroughly understands your rules. Crate training is one way to ensure the dog doesn't do any damage while you are away from home. When you are home, give your dog plenty of attention. The dog will not know what you expect of him if he is left unattended in the yard, according to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). Be aware when your dog is within reach of your outdoor furniture. If the dog is able to get to the furniture, be sure you are present until you can trust the dog alone with it.
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