Dog-Proofing Your Home: All You Need to Know
Whether you’re getting a new puppy for the first time, or you’re just tired of your curious dog searching through stuff every time you leave, knowing how to dog proof your home will provide you with invaluable peace of mind.
There are many hidden risks around our homes that may not be obvious to us humans, but they can pose a threat to your dog if chewed, licked, or swallowed. This can be anything from garbage pails, children’s toys, electrical cords, glass vases, to dangerous chemicals like cleaning products.
All such items should be out of reach to your pup at all times, especially when you’re not home. To help you out, we’ve created this little guide on how to puppy proof your apartment so you can rest assured that your pup is always safe while you’re away. Let’s get into it!
1. Get Rid of Possible Poisonous and Toxic Substances
The first, and probably most important step in dog proofing a house, is putting away anything life-threatening to our pups. You probably don’t realize it, but you have at least a dozen products lying around your home that can be dangerous to your dog.
These include any kinds of medications, perfumes, cleaning products for your kitchen and bathroom, antifreeze, and other car maintenance chemicals, as well as some toxic foods for dogs, like onions, garlic, and chocolate.
If you’re getting a new small puppy, placing all these products on a higher shelf may be all you need to do. But if you have an older and more curious dog that could reach such places, it’s best to secure all these items in a locked cabinet.
2. Baby Locks Are Not Just For Children
Baby locks can do wonders for dog proofing your house. The best thing about them is that you can get many different types. Some baby locks include magnets that aren’t visible to the eye, others have adhesive tapes that can be applied and removed multiple times, and there are even ones that use a pulling cord.
Whichever type you choose, it’s a foolproof method of creating a dog proof room.
3. Make a Safe Space for Your Dog
If you can’t keep your dog away from dangerous stuff, keep them in a safe room. Creating a safe dog proof room for your pup is highly beneficial, especially if you’re leaving them alone often.
Designate one area or room for your pup, and place all their toys and other safe items they like to play with. This can be either an entire room or just a comfortable corner of your home. Just make sure to create a “border” by using a taller baby gate that your dog can’t jump over.
Many dog owners find the crate training method to be very helpful for keeping your pup safe. An appropriate-sized kennel will not only help you in potty training, but it will also provide your pup with a safe haven. You’d be surprised how many older dogs retreat to their kennel when they’re sleepy or just want to avoid a busy home.
And remember, creating a safe space doesn’t have to be indoors. You can create one outdoors as well. Just make sure to check for any holes in your fence, remove toxic plants, and get rid of any sharp objects. Throw in some extra toys for your dog to have enough distractions and encourage safe chewing.
4. Get a Closed Trash Can
Have you ever had to pick up garbage from all over your kitchen floor? If you did, chances are you immediately asked yourself “How do I puppy proof my home?” and wished you never have to go through the same thing again.
Trash cans are irresistible to some dogs, just like pollen is irresistible to bees. But almost anything can end up in them, from rotten food and expired products to small chicken bones that your pup can choke on. It’s a disaster waiting to happen.
So, the best way to avoid all these problems is to get a trash can with a lid that closes tightly and that can’t be open by curious paws. If you can’t do that, just make sure to place the trash can behind a tightly closed or locked cabinet so your dog can’t reach it.
Conclusion – Better Safe than Sorry
Dog proofing your house will ensure your furry friend is safe and secure at all times, whether you’re home or away for work. A few simple steps, like the ones we discussed above, will help prevent an emergency visit to the vet.
Even if you’ve done all these things, make sure to constantly look for any risks to your dog, and eliminate them right away. That way, you’ll never have to deal with those worries in the back of your mind and can enjoy your time knowing your pup is safely relaxing at home without any risks. Better safe than sorry!
