When you’re caught up in the excitement of getting a new pup it’s easy to overlook a few necessary pre-puppy checks to avoid potential accidents in the home, garden or car.
So, the best thing to do is get down to their level and observe…
What could be a potential hazard or cause harm to your inquisitive pup?
Think about the areas of the house he or she will have access to. Then move into the garden or outdoor space and do the same. And finally, the car.
Look out for things that a puppy could chew on or get tangled in, any small spaces he or she could squeeze through, etc.
Basically, you’re trying to eliminate the possibility of an accident – to your new pup, or to your possessions!
Download my handy puppy proofing checklist here to take with you while you investigate areas of your home or read on for a quick overview now…
KITCHEN
- Put away cleaning products
- Keep your bins covered securely
- Keep food out of reach
- Clean/clear counters and floor daily
- Don’t leave plastic bags out
- Secure knives and other sharp objects
LIVING ROOM
- Secure electrical cords
- Put away any soft furnishings you don’t want chewed!
- Remove any small furniture items that could easily be knocked over
- Remove indoor plants as they could be toxic or knocked over
- Remove air fresheners as they can be toxic to animals
- Cover the sofa and chairs
- Remove rugs
- Put away any loose items which could be chewed
- Close and secure windows and doors
BATHROOM
- Ensure any medications and toiletries are out of reach
- Keep toilet lids down
- Keep your bins covered securely
- Store toilet roll!
- Close bathroom door when running a bath
OTHER INDOOR AREAS
- Use stairgates to minimise access
- Secure electrical cords
- Put away all clothes, shoes, jackets, etc.
- Move / block access to any indoor house plants as they could be toxic
- Remove air fresheners as they could also be toxic to dogs
- Close and secure windows and doors
OUTDOOR SPACE
- Close driveway gates (if applicable)
- Remove any possible climbing aids that are near fences, walls, etc.
- Check and repair any holes in hedges, fencing, etc.
- Close garden shed doors, garages, etc.
- Consider moving plant pots and flower beds
- Garden furniture stored securely
- Watering cans, hosepipes tidied away
- Consider an outdoor puppy playpen if you have a larger garden to restrict area
- Be aware of the plants in your garden, could any be toxic to dogs?
- Swimming pool fenced off (if applicable)
- Keep lawn mowed to avoid the possibility of ticks (if in a tick area)
CAR
- Dog guard for back of estates and SUVs
- Car travel crate for complete safety
- Dog harness if placing on the back seat
- Remove any loose objects from vicinity
Of course this is not an exhaustive list, but it should give you a good starting block for things to look out for in your home, garden and car.
As you get down on all fours yourself, you’re bound to discover a few other hazards that may need moving, storing more securely or blocking off just while your pup is in his (or hers) investigatory puppy phase. If you do, let me know in the comments below!
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