When a puppy dog is brought into your home, it is an exciting time that brings both rewards and challenges. If you're considering welcoming a new puppy into your family, it's best to start puppy proofing your home before your new best friend arrives. Check out these tips that will help you puppy proof your house and make it safer for your new companion.
Chewing Hazards
Make it a habit to pick up your shoes, belts, and other articles of clothing. If you leave these items laying on the floor, then your new puppy may find the temptation too much to resist. Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys for your dog and protect your shoes and clothes by putting them in the closet, hamper, or dresser drawers where the items belong.
Electrical Shock
To avoid electrical shock, keep electrical cords tucked away and out of reach. You may also want to purchase protective covers to help keep these wires safe from curious puppy teeth.
Poisons
If you have any house plants, it is a good idea to move them to higher shelves. Some plants are toxic to animals, and puppies will chew on almost anything. Keep your puppy dog safe by removing temptation from their sight and reach.
Exchange those uncovered trash cans for containers with locking lids. Stabilize lightweight trash receptacles by adding a brick to the bottom of the can. This will help prevent the trash can from being tipped over by accident. Not only will this cause a mess, but puppies will eat almost anything, which can result in all kinds of problems. "People food" and garbage items can be toxic, they can cause intestinal blockages, or they can cause mouth injuries. It's best to avoid this as much as you can!
Bleaches, detergents, pesticides, and other household chemicals should always be stored safely out of reach of both children and pets. Be sure that any potential hazards such as these are kept on the highest shelves or behind locked doors.
Doors and Gates
Make it a habit to keep bathroom doors closed. Makeup and cleaning products can be harmful to curious pups. Also be sure to keep the toilet lid in a closed position to prevent accidental drowning of your small and adventurous pet.
Decide before you bring your pet home what areas your puppy will be in, and then guard against him finding a way to escape. Make sure your family closes the door to the outside securely. Make sure all gates are latched and no holes are in the fence.
Don't forget to have the phone number and address for the closest pet emergency facility, too, just in case. Hopefully, you'll never need it, but you'll want it close at hand if you do!
If you have any other questions about welcoming a new pooch into the family, please don't hesitate to reach out. Our desire is to help you and your puppy adjust to his new home!