By Dr. Mikel Delgado, PhD
When you bring your new puppy home, you will want to make sure that you do everything you can to prevent them from getting into trouble or even worse, injured. Much like baby-proofing, puppy-proofing will require you to take a long hard look at every room of your home (and your backyard), including getting down on your hands and knees to see the puppy's view of everything. We’re going to address the most common household puppy pitfalls so that you can be sure your puppy is safe.
Indoor hazards
Keep your toilet lids down when the toilet is not in use and get secure covers for all trash cans
If your puppy might be the counter-surfing type, it may be worthwhile to invest in oven knob and burner covers
Hang any plants out of your puppy’s reach. Even if your plants are out of reach, it’s better to be safe than sorry, so double check that the plants you have are safe to be in the home with dogs. The ASPCA has a list of toxic and non-toxic plants you can reference
Secure cabinets with childproof locks - and make sure that the following are locked away securely: cleaning supplies and other household chemicals, medications, vitamins/supplements, personal care products, essential oils, and sharp objects. While you’re at it, make sure all human food and puppy food/treats are secure!
Use outlet covers and cord wraps to prevent your dog from licking outlets or chewing on cables, which can lead to burns, electrocution, and fires
Be aware of foods that are hazardous to dogs. This list includes (but is not limited to): alcohol, fruit pits, avocado, candy/chocolate, coffee/tea, garlic, grapes/raisins, macadamia nuts, gum, onions and xylitol
All recreational, over the counter, and prescription drugs should be kept secured and out of your dog’s reach
Keep remote controls in covered baskets/containers to keep your dog from chewing on them. Batteries are not safe for puppies, and if the remote breaks, your pup may swallow bits of plastic
Are your windows secure? You’ll want to make sure that window screens are sturdy, and avoid leaving windows open when you aren’t around to supervise
Check your home for breakables or objects that your puppy could accidentally knock over. Museum putty is a great way to secure small objects to mantels and shelves
Shoes, bags and backpacks should be stowed out of reach. Puppies love to chew on shoes, and bags and backpacks often hold dangerous items such as gum or medication
Look for anything that might present a risk (choking or intestinal blockage) if your dog eats them -- small items such as hair ties, ear plugs, socks, strings, toys, rocks, bones and balls. Secure items in containers when not in use
If you have cats, keep your pup away from the litter box. The best way to do this is to have a pet/baby gate with a cat door in it, that gives your cat access to a private place to eliminate, and stops your dog from seeking out cat-poop snacks
The great outdoors
If your pup will be spending time in your backyard, you’ll want to double check that any fences are secure and won’t allow an escape
Pools and spas should be covered or inaccessible (gated) to your dog
Make sure common chemicals are locked away. This includes pesticides, herbicides, fertilizer, and antifreeze
Keep the grass mowed to prevent creating a tick-haven
Don’t use cocoa mulch, as some types are toxic for dogs
Check for sticks that can lead to splinters or intestinal blockages if ingested
Make sure that the plants in your yard are safe for dogs
This list may not be exhaustive, but it will help put you in a safety-first mindset! Although puppy proofing will take some time, it is worth it for peace of mind knowing you are keeping your puppy safe while protecting your stuff.
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