Congratulations on your decision to bring home a new puppy! Puppies are cute, cuddly and full of energy. However, they can also be quite mischievous and curious, and can get into all sorts of trouble if your home is not properly puppy-proofed.
Are you ready?
To ensure that your home is safe and secure for your new baby, it’s important to take some time to prepare before bringing him home. Here’s a checklist of things you need to do to puppy-proof your home:
- Secure loose wires and cords Puppies love to chew, and electrical cords are like crunchy sticks to them. Place them out of reach or use wire protectors to avoid any shocking surprises.
- Remove toxic substances Make sure to store any cleaning products and pesticides away safely – puppies are known for putting everything in their mouths.
- Store food and medicine safely Keep all food and medication out of your puppy’s reach, or you may end up with a sick (or worse) pup.
- Block off dangerous areas Just like toddlers, puppies love to explore and are not aware of danger. Block off areas like stairs or balconies.
- Secure cabinets and drawers Puppies are master detectives and will go to great lengths to investigate any mysterious smells or objects. Secure any cabinets or drawers containing hazardous materials with child-proof locks.
- Check for small objects Like vacuum cleaners, puppies will ‘suck up’ anything that’s small and within reach. Remove any choking hazards or anything that could hurt them.
- Move breakable items Just like bulls in a china shop, puppies can’t help bumping into things. Fragile items should be kept out of reach, and check for sharp edges you may need to pad.
- Watch out for small spaces Puppies are like Houdini, and they will try to squeeze into any space they can fit into.
- Pack away shoes and clothes Puppies are real explorers, and their itchy gums and curiosity could lead them to ‘taste’ your shoes and clothes. Keep your wardrobe securely closed.
- Secure your rubbish Just like raccoons, puppies will dig through rubbish for any ‘tasty treasures’.
- Cover your swimming pool Puppies are not Olympic swimmers, so cover the pool for their safety.
- Keep your toilet lid down Puppies get thirsty, but the toilet bowl is not the place for a drink (or a swim).
- Cover your fireplace Like moths to flames, puppies are drawn to and love to investigate heat, so close off your fireplace with a screen or a gate.
By taking these steps to puppy-proof your home, you can ensure that your new furry friend will be safe and secure. It may take some extra effort, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your puppy is safe is well worth it. Good luck, and enjoy your new puppy!
