The pitter-patter of tiny paws entering your home is such a happy moment. But with a new environment, comes lots of new tastes, smells and things for your pooch to do. To a stop a naughty new pup in their tracks, or to halt their antics before they begin, you’ll need to make sure you’ve puppy-proofed your home.
Here’s our guide on dog proofing your home to keep your four-legged family member safe in their new abode.
Think About Dog Proof Furniture
Puppy-proofing your furniture is essential if you don’t want to be constantly replacing things. Blankets can help keep sofas from getting scratched, and removing the labels and tags from cushions can stop them being chewed off and ingested. Consider removing wooden dining chairs while your pup is getting used to their surroundings so they don’t end up being eaten.
Set out the rules around furniture from day one and stick to them to ensure you set boundaries for your pup early on. Coffee tables and dining tables for should be out of bounds, even if they start making puppy eyes in hopes to win over some human food!
Dog Proof Your House
We're sure your dog will love following you everywhere, so make sure to even pet proof your bathroom. Keep the toilet lid closed and anything like shampoos, soaps and cotton buds as far away from them as possible.
Baby gates are great for keeping your pooch in a certain section of the house, they’re also ideal for blocking off the stairs so there’s no tumbles down them as your pooch explores their new home.
Some other cool things to thinks about are:
- Chew proof dog beds: Beds and chew proof bedding can be helpful while your pup overcomes their rebellious phase
- A dog proof bin: Having a dog proof kitchen bin can help prevent any curious snouts from investigating the interesting scents emanating from it more intrusively.
- Dog proof cat box: Nobody wants their dog digging around in your cat's litter box, disturbing the litter and potentially eating poo - especially your cats. So, get it dog proofed.
- Dog proof sofa: If you don't want to invest in a specific dog proof sofa, you can easily protect your existing upholstery by placing fluffy blankets down in their favourite spots. Giving them somewhere comfy to lounge and you peace of mind that your expensive furniture isn't bearing the brunt.
Puppy Proofing Your Home
Getting your spot ready for a new doggo is one thing. But what happens if you're buying a new pup and are now getting ready to welcome your new bundle of furry energy?
If your puppy’s going to have a free run in the household, you’ll need to make sure everywhere is safe.
Tiny pups will be able to get just about anywhere - under the sofa, under the bed, in-between any small spaces. Check there’s nothing there which can be chewed, cause them harm or be ingested, such as small items or children toys.
You’ll also need to look at puppy-proofing everything from electrical cords to houseplants. Your pup won’t know what is and if it isn’t safe to eat, lick or just carry around with them, so you’ll need to do a full sweep of the house before they arrive. Plus, while your puppy is teething, they may not care about what they chomp on.
Make sure items such as cleaning supplies or sharp objects are kept in high places out of your dog's reach.
Ways to Dog Proof a Garden
If your little pup is taking their first steps into the outdoors, chances are they’ll want to explore. Bushes, trees, grass, flowers – anything which looks fun will need a good sniff and a dig by your pal.
To keep your tail-wagger safe in the bounds of your garden, you’ll need to think about dog proof fencing. Some breeds love to dig, some just want to escape, it's not about you, it's just in their nature. So making sure you have dog proof garden fencing is a good idea.
Dog Safe Plants
On to plants now, and for those of you with a green thumb, make sure your garden's dog friendly and there are no toxic plants around. Those Poinsettias may look lovely, but they are poisonous to dogs. You can find out here what plants are poisonous to dogs to avoid any unwanted trips to the vet!
Upgrade to a Dog Safe Fence
Make sure to cover up any puppy-sized holes and block off any areas you don’t want your puppy playing in. You’ll need to make sure your fencing is in a good condition and strong enough to withhold an excited ball of fur.
Remember, They're Not the Brightest Sparks (But We Love Them, Dearly)
Getting a puppy or a dog is a great idea, but you need to know that bundle of fluffy fun is going to want to explore their new surroundings. And sometimes, those pups are a little clumsy, it's not their fault. Much like you would prepare your house for a baby, dog proofing your house is up there. Plus it gives you peace of mind you're doing your best to keep your dog safe.
Hopefully we've given you all the pointers you need to make your house a friendly place for your pup to enter. Now it might be time to read our guide on looking after a puppy to help you both bond and get settled in together.
Everypaw Dog Insurance
Everypaw's Dog Insurance comes with 24/7 unlimited access to vets and vet nurses that can help with your pet's health, care, nutrition and behaviour. So you can rest assured your pup will be well looked after.