You may not realize that your home is full of hazards for your new pup. Therefore, puppy proofing should be done before you even bring your new pet home. You might be worried that this means accepting a certain amount of deterioration in how your home looks. However, you can keep the loss of aesthetics to a minimum by following the advice laid out in this article.
Pretend You’re a Puppy
Have a bit of fun by getting down on your hands and knees and looking at everything from a puppy’s perspective. You will discover potential puppy chew toys or swallowing hazards, including:
- Shoes
- Purses and bags (and their contents)
- Breakables
- Jewelry
- Bobby pins
- Medications
- Batteries
- Cleaning supplies
- House plants – click here for a list of poisonous ones
For stylish storage solutions, look for decorative containers and place them on high shelves.
Install Pet Barriers
In the beginning, it’s best to keep your puppy’s new world small. Puppy proofing means blocking off rooms that could lead to doggy disasters. As your puppy grows out of the chewing phase and masters toilet training, you can provide him with more freedom.
- You don’t have to settle for bulky ugly-looking plastic barriers. Look for ones that match the wood in your paneling and railings or complement your color scheme.
Invest in Washable Area Rugs
It will take a little time for your new puppy to get the hang of house training, and you should expect mishaps. However, you don’t want a puppy accident on your valuable Persian carpet!
- Add some area rugs that can be thrown in the wash and line-dried.
Hide Wires and Cords (Including Blind Cords)
Tuck electrical and computer cords away so your puppy can’t get at them. If this is difficult, buy some cord wrapping, which comes with the added advantage of tidying up unattractive tangles of cords. Blind cords can pose a strangulation hazard, so raise them safely out of reach of a playful pup.
Install Puppy-Proof Locks
Puppies can be pretty determined to get into a cabinet, so put childproof locks on any cupboard your puppy can reach. Instead of those large, unattractive plastic childproof locks, look for magnetic locks or childproof latches installed on the inside.
Keep Trash Out of Sight (and Out of Puppy Mind and Nose)
Keep your new pooch from pigging out on garbage by ensuring that all trash cans have covers that can’t be dislodged. If you are concerned about aesthetics, stow your trash can in a secure kitchen cabinet.
Keep Outside Doors and Windows Closed (or Screened)
You don’t want your puppy escaping for an outdoor misadventure. It’s also a good idea to keep bathroom doors shut to prevent your puppy from chewing up your toilet paper or engaging in the fun game of unraveling it. Also, be sure to close the toilet lid – you don’t want your puppy drinking the water in the loo.
Puppy Proof Your Yard
Ensure your yard is properly fenced in and any pesticides and poisonous plants are discarded. Your new puppy should be supervised while outside. However, as he grows older, consider installing a doggy door. Look for one that blends in seamlessly with the exterior of your house.
Puppy Proofing – Final Thoughts
Your home can be puppy-proofed and still look good. Your goal should be to make your home as hazard-proof as possible so your bouncing puppy can safely grow into adulthood and live a long healthy life. At Midlands Pet Care, we want your pet to live a long, healthy life!