Bringing a dog into your home is an exciting experience. It also comes with the responsibility of ensuring your space is safe and secure for your new furry friend. Dogs are naturally curious and can get into trouble if your home isn’t properly prepared.
Use this comprehensive checklist to dog-proof your home and create a safe environment for your pet.
Secure Hazardous Items for a Dog-Proof Home
Chemicals and Cleaners: Store all cleaning products, pesticides, and chemicals in locked cabinets or high shelves. Your dog may chew on bottles or containers, which can lead to poisoning or chemical burns. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other health issues. Consider using childproof locks on cabinets, and always keep the hazardous items out of your dog’s reach.
Medications: Dogs can easily chew through pill bottles. Ingesting medications not intended for them can be fatal. Keeping medications out of your dog’s reach is crucial for their safety. as even small amounts of human or pet medications can be toxic to them. Store all medications in secure drawers that your dog cannot access.
Avoid leaving pill bottles on countertops, nightstands, and in open bags. Never store medications in plastic bags, as these offer little protection against a curious dog. If you accidentally drop a pill, pick it up immediately to prevent your dog from swallowing it.
Sharp Objects: Dogs can accidentally swallow small, dangerous items like nails, screws, and pins. Store knives, scissors, razors, and tools in secure cabinets with childproof locks to ensure your dog can’t access them. Avoid leaving sharp objects on countertops, and tables. Your dog can jump or knock them over while exploring.
When using sewing needles or craft tools, always supervise your dog closely and clean up immediately after use. Regularly check your floors and low surfaces for stray sharp objects. By taking these precautions, you can create a safer environment for your curious pup.
Protect Electrical Cords and Outlets
Cord Management: Puppies are prone to chewing on cords. This habit of your dog can lead to electric shocks and burns. You can also use cord protectors or spiral cable wraps to make cords less accessible. Start by organizing and securing cords using cord covers, and spiral cable wraps to keep them out of your dog’s reach. Tuck cords behind furniture. You can use cord concealers to hide them along walls or baseboards. For better protection, follow these-
- For exposed cords, consider applying a pet-safe bitter spray to deter chewing.
- Unplug cords when not in use.
- If your dog is particularly curious, use baby gates and barriers to block access to areas with multiple cords.
- Additionally, inspect cords regularly for signs of damage, and replace any frayed or chewed cords immediately.
Outlet Covers: Install outlet covers in all unused outlets to block access. These outlet covers are inexpensive and easy-to-use. They create a physical barrier, preventing your dog from sticking their nose, tongue, and paws into the sockets. Consider using sliding outlet covers that automatically close when a plug is removed. Teach your dog the “leave it” command to discourage them from investigating outlets.
Remove Toxic Plants from Your Home
Research Toxic Plants: Know the plants harmful for your dog. Many common plants can be harmful if ingested or even touched by your dog.
Houseplants are popular for their aesthetic appeal but can be dangerous to pets. For instance:
Aloe vera: Contains saponins and causes vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in dogs.
Pothos: Leads to oral irritation, drooling, and difficulty swallowing.
Philodendron and Dieffenbachia: Highly irritating to a dog’s mouth and throat. Causes swelling, difficulty breathing, and gastrointestinal distress.
Peace lilies: Contain calcium oxalates. Leads to drooling, vomiting, and pawing at the mouth.
Many common garden and landscaping plants are hazardous to dogs. Examples include:
Sago palm: One of the most toxic plants for dogs. Ingestion can cause severe liver damage, seizures, and even death.
Azaleas and Oleander: Contain toxins that affect the heart, leading to abnormal rhythms and potential heart failure.
Foxglove: Affects a dog’s heart function.
Daffodils: All parts of this springtime favorite, especially the bulbs, are toxic and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart issues.
Many weeds and wild Plants are toxic for dogs, such as:
Poison ivy: Ingestion can cause stomach upset.
Nightshade: Can cause gastrointestinal distress, drooling, and neurological symptoms.
Mushrooms: Certain species like the Amanita genus can be deadly to dogs. This affects the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.
Hemlock: Highly toxic, ingestion can lead to respiratory failure.
Safe Alternatives: Replace toxic plants with pet-safe plants. Some excellent non-toxic options include spider plants, Boston ferns, and African violets. These plants add greenery without posing a risk. Herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary are also safe and can even be used in your cooking.
For flowering plants, consider orchids, marigolds, and snapdragons. Palms, such as the parlor palm and bamboo palm, are another great choice for adding a tropical touch to your space. Always double-check the safety of any plant before bringing it into your home. Place plants in areas where your dog can’t easily knock them over or dig in the soil.
Secure Furniture for Safety Purpose
Anchor Furniture: Some larger breeds can accidentally knock over furniture while playing or jumping. So, anchoring furniture is an important step to prevent it from tipping over. Use furniture straps or anti-tip brackets to secure heavy items like bookshelves, dressers, and TVs to the wall.
For taller cabinets, place heavier items on the bottom shelves to lower the center of gravity and reduce the risk of tipping. Consider using wall anchors or brackets to freestanding racks to make them stable. Avoid placing tempting items on high surfaces. Toys or treats can encourage your dog to jump these surfaces.
Fragile Items: Keeping your dog safe from fragile items at home requires a combination of strategic placement and proactive measures. Move moving breakable decors to closed cabinets out of your dog’s reach. Avoid placing vases on low tables or unstable surfaces. Use museum putty and adhesive strips to secure lightweight decor items to shelves. Use glass doors on display cases to keep your dog away from delicate objects.
Block Off Restricted Areas
Baby Gates: Identifying high-risk zones. These includes staircases, kitchens, and rooms with fragile items. Install sturdy baby gates to block entry. Choose gates that are tall enough to prevent jumping and have a secure locking mechanism to withstand your dog’s strength.
For larger dogs, opt for extra-tall and pressure-mounted gates with reinforced panels. Ensure the gate is properly installed and regularly check for stability. Train your dog to respect the gate by rewarding calm behavior near it.
Doors and Windows: Ensure doors and windows are securely closed to prevent escapes. Dogs can be surprisingly adept at opening doors or squeezing through small gaps. Consider using childproof locks on doors and windows to keep your dog safely inside. Take the following measures for the safety of your dogs-
- Install baby gates near doors that lead to potentially unsafe areas
- Install self-closing hinges or door alarms to prevent accidental escapes.
- Avoid clutter near doors to prevent your dog from sneaking past while you’re distracted.
- Reinforce window screens with pet-resistant mesh to prevent your dog from pushing through.
- Ensure windows are open at a level that your dog cannot reach.
- For larger dogs, install guards to block access to open windows.
Check Small Objects and Laundry Room
Choking Hazards: Keep small objects like coins, buttons, jewelry, batteries, and children’s toys off the floor. Store these items in drawers, or containers with secure lids. Regularly scan your home for potential hazards. Avoid giving your dog toys with detachable parts. These small parts could be chewed off and swallowed. Choose dog-safe toys. Clean food scraps, rubber bands, and sewing supplies after cooking.
Laundry Room: Store laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and bleach in a locked cabinet. Always ensure lids are tightly sealed and containers are stored in a stable position. Keep used and unused dryer sheets away from your dog. Dispose of used dryer sheets immediately in a dog-proof trash bin. Dryer sheets contain chemicals that can cause stomach upset.
Always check your washer and dryer before use to ensure your dog hasn’t climbed inside. Keep appliance doors closed when not in use. Consider installing child locks on the doors for added safety. Keep trash or small piece of appliances away from your dog.
Safeguard Food and Kitchen Areas
Counter Surfing: Preventing counter surfing keep your dog safe from harmful foods, and hot surfaces in the kitchen. Keep all food, utensils, and potentially dangerous items off the countertops. Use aluminum foil and pet-safe bitter sprays on the edges of counters to make them less appealing to your dog.
Train your dog to stay out of the kitchen or away from counters using commands like “off” or “leave it,” and reward them for obeying. If your dog is particularly persistent, consider using baby gates to block access to the kitchen when you’re not around.
Trash Compartment: Using a secure trash can is an effective way to dog proofing your home. A trash can with a secure, locking lid prevents your dog from accessing potentially dangerous items. Opt for a heavy-duty, stainless steel, or durable plastic trash can that your dog can’t easily knock over or chew through. Place the trash can in a cabinet or behind a baby gate for added security.
Avoid tossing bones, chocolate, onions, and cleaning wipes into the trash. Dispose these items in a separate, sealed container.
Toxic Foods: Be aware of foods toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol. Keep these foods out of reach and educate family members and guests about the dangers of feeding these items to your dog.
Secure Outdoor Spaces
Fencing: Ensure your yard has a secure fence with no gaps or holes. Dogs can easily slip through small gaps or dig under fences to escape. Regularly inspect your fence for damage and repair any weak spots.
Gates: Check that gates are locked and latched properly. Dogs can learn to open gates. Consider using a padlock to keep gates securely closed.
Pools and Water Features: Use a pool cover to prevent your dog from accidentally falling into the water and drowning. Choosing a sturdy, well-fitted pool cover designed to support weight. Ensure the cover is securely anchored to the pool’s edges to prevent your dog from slipping underneath. Consider installing a pool alarm that alerts you if something enters the water. Supervise your dog whenever they are near the pool.
Create a Cozy Dog Proof Space
Dog Bed or Crate: A dog bed plays a key role in creating a dog-proof home by providing a comfortable space to rest and relax. When your dog has their own bed, they are less likely to seek out unsafe or off-limits areas. Place the bed in a quiet, low-traffic area. A cozy bed can also discourage destructive behaviors, like chewing on furniture or digging. Having a dedicated spot for your dog helps establish boundaries and routines.
Toys: Toys keep your dog entertained, and less likely to engage in destructive behaviors. Provide your dog a variety of chew toys, puzzle toys, and interactive toys. These toys are helpful to redirect your dog’s natural instincts to chew, dig, or explore toward safe and appropriate activities.
Durable chew toys, like rubber Kongs or nylon bones, can satisfy your dog’s need to gnaw and prevent them from chewing on furniture, shoes, and electrical cords. Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys encourage mental engagement. This reduces boredom and the likelihood of your dog getting into mischief. Rotate toys regularly to keep your dog interested and prevent them from seeking out household items for entertainment.
Water and Food Bowls: Place them in a quiet, accessible area. Ensure your dog always has access to fresh water and that their food bowl is in a spot where they can eat without being disturbed.
By following this checklist, you can create a safe and welcoming environment for your dog. Regularly reassess your home as your dog grows or as new hazards arise. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your furry friend happy and healthy!
