Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting experience. While the excitement can be blinding, it’s key to make sure you are well-prepared for the world of dog ownership.
Puppies are curious and energetic little creatures. Their natural instinct is to explore their surroundings. This means that your home needs to be a safe environment for them.
Puppy-proofing your home not only protects your belongings but also keeps the puppy out of harm’s way. Here’s our own comprehensive guide to help you create a safe environment for your new furry friend.
Puppy Proofing Checklist
Secure Electrical Cords and Outlets
Puppies are notorious for chewing on things, and electrical cords can be particularly enticing. Electrical cords are extremely hazardous and can cause electrical shocks or burns to the mouth.
Ways to prevent this include:
Hide or Cover Cords. Use cord concealers or protective covers to keep wires out of reach.
Unplug Unused Appliances. When not in use, unplug appliances and store the cords safely.
Block Access. Arrange furniture to block access to cords and outlets.
Store Hazardous Materials Safely
Common household items can be dangerous if ingested by a puppy.
Items to be aware of include:
Cleaning Supplies. Keep all cleaning agents in high cabinets or secured with childproof latches.
Medications. Store human and pet medications out of reach, preferably in locked cabinets.
Toxic Foods. Be aware of foods toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and xylitol, and ensure they are inaccessible.
Safeguard Trash Bins
Trash cans can be a treasure trove for curious puppies that may contain harmful items. Not to mention, it’s a mess to clean.
To puppy-proof your trash:
Use Lidded Bins. Opt for trash cans with secure lids that are difficult for puppies to open.
Store Out of Reach. Keep trash bins inside cabinets or in areas inaccessible to your puppy.
Remove or Secure Small Objects
Puppies will try to chew and eat anything they get their paws on. This makes small objects potential choking hazards.
Keep Floors Clear. Regularly check for and remove small items like coins, buttons, and children's toys.
Store Personal Items. Keep items like jewelry, hair ties, and remote controls out of reach.
Protect Your Furniture and Belongings
To prevent damage and ensure safety:
Use Pet-Friendly Furniture Covers. Protect furniture from scratches and fur with washable covers.
Keep Doors Closed. Make it a habit to always keep your bedroom, bathroom, and other important areas inaccessible to your puppy.
Provide Chew Toys. Offer appropriate chew toys to satisfy your puppy's need to chew, reducing the likelihood of them targeting your belongings.
Secure Doors and Windows
Prevent accidental falls or escapes by:
Keep Doors Closed. Unless you have a fenced in yard, all doors leading to the outside should be closed or screened.
Installing Screens. Ensure all windows have secure screens.
Blocking Balcony Access. Supervise your puppy on balconies or use barriers to prevent access.
Check for Toxic Plants
Some houseplants can be toxic to dogs.
Identify and Remove. Research your plants and remove or place toxic ones out of reach.
Opt for Pet-Safe Plants. Consider replacing toxic plants with pet-friendly alternatives.
Set Up a Safe Space
Designate a specific area for your puppy to relax and play safely.
Use Baby Gates or Playpens. Limit your puppy's access to certain areas until they are fully trained.
Create a Comfortable Resting Area. Provide a cozy bed and keep their food and water bowls nearby.
Be Mindful of Doors and Exits
Prevent your puppy from slipping out unnoticed.
Use Door Alarms or Bells. These can alert you when a door is opened.
Train on Door Manners. Teach your puppy to sit and wait when doors are opened.
Supervise and Train
Constant supervision and early training are key to keeping your puppy safe.
Enroll in Puppy Classes. Professional training can provide socialization and teach essential commands.
Positive Reinforcement. Reward good behavior to encourage compliance and learning.
Takeaways
Bringing a new puppy home is one of the best milestones in someone's life regardless of the stage: for kids, parents with young kids, newly weds, etc. but it comes with the responsibility of building out a secure environment where they can thrive.
Puppy-proofing your home is an essential step to ensure safety and happiness for your furry friend. Make sure to safeguard against hazards such as electrical cords, toxic substances, and choking hazards, you’re not only protecting your puppy, but also making a space in which they can explore and grow their own little world without random, unnecessary risks.
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