Puppy Proofing Home: A Complete Guide

Bringing a new puppy into your home is a happy and exciting event, but it also comes with significant responsibilities. We've designed a thorough checklist to help you prepare and ensure your new friend's comfort and well-being. This guide will help you handle the early phases of puppy ownership with confidence.

1. Secure Electrical Cords and Outlets
Puppies love to chew, and electrical cords are a common target. To avert an accident:

• Use cord organizers to bundle and conceal electrical cables.
• Consider utilizing cable covers or protective tubing.
• Use outlet covers to block unused electrical outlets.

2. Remove Toxic Plants
Many common houseplants are poisonous to dogs. Be sure to:

• Locate and remove any poisonous plants, such as lilies, azaleas, and philodendrons.
• Place safe plants out of reach or in locations that your puppy cannot access. Check out the ACF blog “Poisonous Plants” below for the most common household plants to watch out for.​

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3. Store Hazardous Chemicals
Household cleansers, insecticides, and other chemicals can be toxic if consumed. To ensure your puppy's safety:

• Keep all dangerous materials in high cabinets or lockable cupboards.
• Use childproof locks on lower cabinets if required.

4. Place Little Objects Out of Reach
Puppies can choke on small objects or mistakenly consume them, resulting in significant health consequences. Emergency surgery for an intestinal blockage is emotionally fraught and expensive.  Ensure:

• Small objects like coins, buttons, and jewelry are kept out of reach.
• Toys with tiny parts are carefully stowed.
• Socks and underwear are not left on the floor where the puppy will be (it is shockingly common for puppies to eat these items and then require emergency surgery).

5. Secure Trash Bins
Trash may be a source of attraction for curious pups. To keep them from foraging in the garbage:

• Use garbage cans with secure lids.
• Store bins in cabinets or closets whenever possible.

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6. Block Off Restricted Areas
There may be locations in your home that you wish to keep off-limits to your dog. Use:

• Baby gates to shut off staircases or rooms.
• Closed doors to restrict access to specific places.
• If living with others, post-it note reminders on doors are a great way to help folks remember the new requirements.

7. Provide Safe Chewing Toys
Puppies need to chew, and equipping them with suitable chew toys can help them from gnawing on inappropriate stuff. Ensure:

• Chew toys are suitable for your puppy's age and size.
• Toys are constructed from non-toxic materials.
• Toys do not have choking hazards attached to them (like the eyes of a stuffed animal).

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8. Create a Safe Space
Creating a dedicated safe spot for your puppy can help them feel comfortable while also providing a place to relax and play. Consider:

• Using a crate or playpen to establish a safe environment.
• Dedicating a small room as their first introduction to their new home.
• Placing their bed, toys, and water bowl in this area.​

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9. Check for Escape Routes
Puppies are tiny and may easily fit through small holes. Inspect your home for possible escape routes:

• Close any gaps in fences or gates.
• Ensure that windows and doors are properly closed and locked.

10. Educate Your Family
Everyone in your home should be informed of the new safety precautions in place. Make sure:

• Family members understand which objects are off-limits to the dog.
• Everyone is cautious about keeping doors and gates closed.

Puppy proofing your house takes some effort, but it is necessary for providing a safe environment for your new furry pet. By following these steps, you can minimize the likelihood of accidents and give your puppy a happy and healthy start in their new home. Enjoy the experience of raising a puppy and the endless joy it brings!
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Written by: Morgan Dunleavy