26/11/2024
HOW TO PUPPY-PROOF YOUR HOME FOR A
SAFE AND HAPPY ENVIRONMENT
When you finally get the chance to bring home the puppy you always wanted, you can’t help but be filled with joy and excitement, but some preparation needs to be done to ensure your new furry friend’s safety. Puppies are naturally curious and love to explore; which means they might get into things they shouldn’t.
Follow these puppy-proofing tips to make your home a safe and welcoming place for your new furry friend!
Identify Potential Hazards in Each Room
Each room has different potential hazards for a puppy. Here’s how to address them:
Living Room
Secure all electrical cords and cover outlets to prevent shocks. Put Remotes in a secure area....do not leave on end tables. Move breakable items to higher shelves, out of reach. Ensure any toxic plants, like Poinsettias during the Holidays, are removed or placed out of your puppy’s reach.
Kitchen
Keep food, trash, and cleaning supplies secured in cabinets or with child-proof locks. Sharp objects and small appliances should also be stored safely, as curious puppies may try to investigate. Be cautious NOT to leave ANY food on your counter!
Bedroom
Remove small items like jewelry or hair ties that puppies might swallow. Store all medications out of reach, as many can be harmful to dogs. Check for loose cords from blinds or curtains, which can pose a strangling risk.
Bathroom
Store medications, toiletries, and cleaning products in locked cabinets or on high shelves. Keep the toilet lid down to prevent your puppy from drinking toilet water, and remove any small objects that could be chewed or swallowed. They love to shred toilet paper rolls so just keep the Bathroom Door Closed!
Using Barriers and Gates
Barriers are essential for restricting access to certain areas, especially during the early days of exploration.
Baby Gates
Place gates at the top of stairs and block off rooms where supervision is limited. This is particularly helpful for areas like the kitchen or basement.
Crate Training
Blue Star Puppies are already crate trained. Continuing to use a crate, and a Puppy Play Pen, to create a secure, cozy space for your puppy when you cannot supervise them is very important. A crate in the Puppy Play Pen keep them safe and gives them a place to play, nap and relax.
Securing Trash and Food Sources
Food and trash are particularly tempting to puppies, so make sure they’re secure.
Lockable Trash Cans
Use trash cans with secure lids to prevent your puppy from getting into discarded food or harmful items.
Store Food Safely
Keep human food out of reach, as many foods like chocolate, grapes, and onions are toxic to dogs.
Creating a Safe Play Area
Designate a specific nap/play area with puppy-safe toys, a comfortable bed, and access to water. This helps teach boundaries and keeps your puppy entertained in a secure space. I like to use a Puppy Plan Pen with the Puppy's Crate in the corner.
The health and well-being of your puppy is our top priority from birth to transition to your loving home. If you’re ready to welcome a precious puppy into your family, please take a little time to puppy-proof your home.
Big HUGE Puppy Hugs and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
Blue Star Labradoodles
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