Puppy-Proof Your Home
Puppy-Proof
Your Home
A safe environment is the best first gift you can give your new puppy. Here's how to prepare before they arrive.
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but your home may contain hidden hazards that a curious puppy can easily get into. Puppies explore the world with their noses and mouths, so taking a few precautions before they arrive can help prevent accidents and create a safe environment where they can learn and grow.
9 Ways to Make Your Home Safe
Secure Electrical Cords
Puppies love to chew. Keep electrical cords out of reach, cover them with cord protectors, or bundle them neatly to reduce the risk of chewing and electrical injury.
Remove Toxic Plants
Many common houseplants can be harmful to dogs. Move toxic plants out of reach or replace them with pet-safe alternatives. Always check before bringing any new plant home.
Store Cleaning Products Safely
Cleaners, detergents, bleach, medications, and chemicals should be stored in locked cabinets or on high shelves. Never leave them unattended while in use.
Pick Up Small Objects
Coins, batteries, hair ties, rubber bands, socks, jewelry, and small plastic pieces can become choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
Secure Trash Cans
Trash often contains food scraps, bones, wrappers, or other dangerous items. Use trash cans with secure lids or place them where your puppy cannot access them.
Block Unsafe Areas
Use baby gates to limit access to stairs, garages, workshops, laundry rooms, or any area that could pose a safety risk while your puppy is learning the rules.
Protect Valuable Items
Shoes, remote controls, eyeglasses, chargers, books, and other valuables are favorite targets for teething puppies. Put them away before your puppy arrives.
Check Your Yard
Walk your yard and remove sharp objects, toxic plants, fertilizers, or pesticides. Make sure fences and gates are secure with no escape gaps.
Prepare a Safe Space
Create a quiet area with a comfortable bed, fresh water, age-appropriate toys, and a crate or playpen where your puppy can rest and feel secure during the transition into their new home.
Puppy-Proofing Checklist
- Cover electrical cords
- Remove or relocate toxic plants
- Lock away cleaning products and medications
- Pick up small objects from floors
- Secure trash cans
- Install baby gates where needed
- Put away valuables and chewable items
- Inspect your yard for hazards
- Set up a cozy, puppy-safe space
