Dogs are known for their love of chewing, and one behavior that is common in many dogs is the desire to chew on bones or other hard objects. While this behavior can be satisfying and beneficial for dogs, it can also be inconvenient or annoying for their caregivers, especially if the dog chooses to chew on clothing, furniture, or other household items. In some cases, dogs may chew on their caregivers as a way to show affection, establish dominance, or relieve stress, and it is important to understand the context and motivations behind this behavior.

One reason that dogs may chew on their caregivers is to show affection or seek attention. Dogs are social animals, and they often use a variety of behaviors to communicate their feelings and intentions to their caregivers. Chewing on their caregivers can be a way for dogs to show affection or seek attention, and it can also be a way for them to bond with their caregivers. In these cases, chewing on their caregivers is often accompanied by other friendly or playful behaviors, such as wagging tails, licking, or play-bowing.

Another reason that dogs may chew on their caregivers is to establish dominance or social status. Dogs are hierarchical animals, and they often use a variety of behaviors to communicate their position in the pack or group. Chewing on their caregivers can be a way for dogs to assert their dominance over their caregivers, and it can also be a way for them to show submission or deference to more dominant individuals. In some cases, chewing on their caregivers may be accompanied by other behaviors, such as growling or barking, that are intended to communicate dominance or submission.

A third reason that dogs may chew on their caregivers is to relieve stress or anxiety. Dogs, like humans, can experience stress or anxiety in response to various stimuli, and they may use chewing as a way to cope with these emotions. Chewing on their caregivers can be a way for dogs to release pent-up energy or tension, and it can also be a way for them to self-soothe or calm down.