If you’ve recently welcomed a puppy into your home, you’re likely enjoying the energy of the new pup. However, you may feel overwhelmed by the task of puppy-proofing your home. This comprehensive guide on puppy-proofing will ensure your home is safe from any puppy-related destruction.
Set Up Dog Gates
Setting up dog gates is key to protecting your pup and belongings. Dog gates make your job easier by keeping your puppy contained and limiting the space you need to be puppy-proof. You also have control over how many gates you put up; you can set a gate at the bottom of the stairs to keep your pup on a lower level or use gates to contain your pup in a singular room. You may also want to set up a doggie gate at the top of your staircase to prevent your puppy from tumbling down the stairs.
By keeping your puppy in a single area of your house, you can easily keep an eye on them. Containing your puppy makes potty training easier since your pup will consistently be in a familiar space. You’ll also only need to place potty pads in one area of the house. Additionally, securing your puppy with dog gates means you can keep a condensed area clean and conduct detailed sweeps for items that aren’t puppy-friendly.
Secure Windows and Doors
The next step in puppy-proofing your home is securing all windows and doors. Most new puppies aren’t aware of the dangers of stepping outside off-leash. Puppies may take an open door or window as a sign to explore outside, which can be especially dangerous if you live in a home with multiple stories. Make sure that all outside access points in your home are closed and locked at all times.
Additionally, puppy owners should avoid having open exits even if screens are in place. Screens are not secure barriers for doors and windows since a puppy may accidentally charge through.
Dog-Proof Trash Cans
Trash cans contain a variety of unsanitary items and choking hazards. To prevent your curious puppy from getting into your trash can and making a mess, ensure that you have a puppy-proof trash can. One option for keeping trash out of paw’s reach is to keep all trash cans in rooms or closets that your puppy doesn’t have access to.
Another option is getting a trash can with a securely locking lid to ensure your puppy can’t open it, even if it gets knocked over. If you don’t want to change where you keep your trash can, consider purchasing a child-proof latch. Additionally, ensure no trash is strewn around the house. Any trash that has sharp edges or may be toxic to your dog should always remain securely inside a trash can.
Secure Furniture
Puppies are notoriously clumsy while they’re still learning how to gain control over their limbs. As they grow and start to explore, they may accidentally bump into furniture and other items in the house. Furniture that is not properly secured can fall and trap a puppy, leading to serious injuries or suffocation. Secure anything your puppy can knock over to prevent damaged belongings or an injured pup. This includes any lamps, bookshelves, small tables, and decorations that could be tipped over. You can also buy an anti-tipping kit to securely anchor heavy furniture to the wall.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to rearrange your furniture to reduce small spaces. Puppies have a tendency to squirm into tight spots and might get stuck between pieces of furniture. To prevent this, you can place barriers in the gaps between furniture. Puppies also like to investigate the area under beds. You can place stacked storage containers under the bed to prevent your puppy from getting underneath it. It’s good to cover loose springs to prevent your puppy from getting injured if they manage to crawl under the bed.
Remove Anything Toxic
New pet owners should be aware of potential toxins that may harm their puppies. Here are a few household items to keep away from your puppy:
- Certain Houseplants: While plants are great for brightening up a home, some houseplants are toxic for dogs. Research which plans are safe for canines before bringing a new puppy home. We recommend keeping all plants far out of your puppy’s reach so Fido can’t make a mess.
- Medicine: Ingestion of human prescription and over-the-counter medication is one of the most common causes of pet poisoning. Child-proof lids aren’t enough to keep puppies away; sharp puppy teeth can easily chew up medicine containers. Keep all medicine containers far out of reach to keep your puppy safe.
- Cleaning Supplies: Most household cleaners are toxic for dogs and can be fatal if ingested. Keep all cleaning supplies out of reach and securely locked away from your puppy.
Cover Cords and Wires
Electrical cords and wires can pose a potentially life-threatening danger to your puppy. If your teething puppy chews on an electrical cable or wire, it is at risk for mouth burns, electrical shock, or electrocution. To prevent this, you should place outlet covers around the house. It would also help to wrap cords with protective covers to prevent your puppy from chewing on them. Lastly, keep all cords tucked up high to avoid the risk of strangulation or other injuries.
Secure Your Puppy
When you’re not able to supervise your puppy, it’s important to keep them secured in a crate or playpen. With training, a crate will become a safe and restful space for your puppy. Puppies spend about 85% of their days sleeping, so having a designated sleeping area is crucial.
A playpen is another great option for providing a controlled environment while still allowing your puppy some space to move around. Both options can help reduce potty accidents, which is especially useful during the early stages of potty training. Make sure to pick up any small objects that your puppy might try to put in their mouth. Keep anything that shouldn’t be chewed on or might pose a choking hazard stored in secure containers or high out of reach.
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