How to Stop a Dog Scratching the Door

If your dog has taken to scratching the doors, you’re not alone. It’s a common behaviour that can cause frustration, not to mention damage to your home. Whether it’s driven by boredom, anxiety or habit, there are practical steps you can take to manage the issue. In this guide, we’ll look at why dogs scratch doors, how to stop it and what to do if your door has already seen better days.

Why do dogs scratch doors?

Dogs scratch doors for a variety of reasons, and the behaviour often stems from instinct, habit or a need to communicate. It’s important to understand the root cause so you can effectively address the issue.

Common behavioural reasons

Scratching can be a way for your dog to get attention or signal that they want to go outside, join you in another room, or escape a space where they’re bored or under-stimulated. Some dogs might also scratch as part of a learned behaviour – for example, if they’ve been rewarded in the past (e.g. the door opened), they are likely to repeat it in the future. Door scratching can also be a way to mark territory, as dogs have scent glands in their paws, which will leave a scent trace on the door.

When it might signal anxiety

In some cases, door scratching is a symptom of separation anxiety or general stress. If a dog is left alone for extended periods, they might scratch compulsively as a coping mechanism. If the behaviour is paired with whining, barking, pacing or destructive chewing, it’s likely to be caused by anxiety. Changes in routine, new environments or even loud noises can trigger anxious behaviours. If you suspect stress or anxiety is at play, it could be worth speaking to a vet or canine behaviouralist for guidance.

Ways to stop your dog from scratching the door

If your dog’s door scratching has become a problem, there are a few different methods you can try to stop the behaviour. Sometimes it can be best to use a mix to help create a more peaceful home for both you and your dog.

Training techniques

Training your dog to stop scratching the door will involve reinforcing good behaviour and discouraging unwanted actions. You can start by teaching your dog a reliable “leave it” or “no” command to interrupt scratching. You can then reward them with treats and praise when they stop or focus on an alternative behaviour, such as sitting calmly by the door.

You can also train your dog to use a designated space, such as a bed or crate, when you’re away, to prevent them from being near the door and scratching. If your dog is struggling with separation anxiety, patience and consistency are key. You should gradually increase the time they spend alone in a calm, designated space to help them adjust. If the behaviour persists or worsens, it’s best to seek advice from a vet or qualified behaviouralist.

Physical barriers

Using physical barriers can be an effective way to prevent access to the door altogether. You could use a baby gate or move furniture to block the area where your dog scratches. Some dogs respond well to a double-sided tape or sticky paw protectors applied to the door—this makes the surface less pleasant to scratch and discourages them from returning. However, you should take care with what you apply to ensure you don’t leave marks on the door.

If scratching continues to be an issue despite or during training, you could use protective coverings on your doors. You can install a clear, scratch-resistant film or a door guard to shield the surface from scratches. Alternatively, you could try a fabric-based door protector designed to resist damage and wipe clean easily. These options will preserve the appearance of your doors whilst you work on changing your dog’s behaviour.

Environmental enrichment

When a dog is bored, they are more likely to engage in destructive behaviours, such as scratching. Environmental enrichment can help alleviate this. You can try increasing the variety of toys and activities available to your dog – using interactive toys and puzzle feeders, as well as regular exercise can provide both mental and physical stimulation and reduce the need to scratch for attention.

When you’re out, you should leave your dog in a safe, comfortable space where they can entertain themselves, such as a designated playpen or a cosy crate filled with their favourite items. However, you should be careful not to leave them with anything that they might digest or that could pose a choking hazard, such as small toys or items that could be chewed apart.

What to do if your door has been scratched by a dog

If your dog has already caused damage to your door, there are a few options available depending on the extent of the scratching and the type of door you have.

Minor surface scratches

For light surface marks, especially on painted or varnished timber doors, you might be able to repair the damage yourself. You can start by gently sanding the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper, then touch up with a matching paint or wood stain. A protective sealant can help prevent future wear and tear.

For veneer doors, extra care will be needed to avoid sanding through the thin surface. In these cases, furniture markers or wax repair sticks matched to the door’s colour can be a simple and discreet fix.

Deep gouges and structural damage

If the scratching has gone beyond the surface and into the wood or composite core, more extensive repair work will likely be needed. Filler or putty can be used to build up damaged areas, but the finish may not perfectly match the rest of the door. In some cases, it might be best to consider professional refinishing to properly restore the door’s appearance.

Replacing the door

If the door is warped, chipped or damaged beyond repair, replacing it might be the more cost-effective long-term solution. Replacing a damaged door not only restores the look of your space but also gives you the opportunity to choose a style and finish that’s better suited to your home and your dog’s habits.

Choosing dog-friendly internal doors

If your dog is prone to scratching or pushing against doors, selecting a pet-friendly internal door can help reduce damage and prolong the life of your interiors.

Scratch-resistant finishes

You should opt for doors that have hardwearing, easy-clean finishes. Laminate doors, for example, are a practical choice as they’re designed to resist everyday knocks and scuffs. They’re also less prone to showing claw marks compared to softer wood finishes or painted surfaces. Veneered doors with a high-quality lacquered finish can also offer a good level of protection, especially if they’re regularly maintained.

Easy maintenance

You should look for doors that are simple to wipe clean, especially if your dog is likely to leave paw marks, drool or scratches behind. Doors with smooth surfaces and sealed edges will make maintenance easier and help keep your doors looking newer for longer.

Style considerations

If you’re concerned about aesthetics, consider darker finishes or wood grain effects that naturally disguise minor marks. Glazed panels can also help reduce anxiety for some dogs by allowing them to see through to the other side, although this might not be suitable if your dog reacts strongly to movement or activity.

Choosing a dog-friendly internal door doesn’t have to mean compromising on style. At JB Kind, we offer a wide range of designs that combine practicality and visual appeal, so you can create a home that suits both your taste and your lifestyle with pets. Download our brochure or contact us to find out more.