How to puppy proof your home, inside and out

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SafeWise Team
By SafeWise Team
Nov 07, 2024
Icon Time To Read5 min read
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting (and sometimes daunting) start to a new chapter. From wet noses to a happily wagging tail, puppies are CUTE. But along with the cuddles and playful antics, a puppy brings a good dose of mischief. Curious and always on the lookout for something to explore, chew, or drag around, a puppy views everything you own - from shoes to the TV remote - as a potential new toy.  

To help ensure your newest family member brings nothing but happiness, it’s wise to take some steps to puppy-proof your home. Puppy-proofing doesn’t just save your shoes, furniture, and keepsakes from becoming munched; it’s also vital to keeping your furry friend safe and secure as they learn their way around. By taking a few proactive steps, you can avoid many common puppy hazards and make your home a safe, welcoming place for your four-legged friend to explore and grow.

Below, we’ll walk you through some essential puppy-proofing tips for creating a safe environment both inside your home and outdoors. From securing tempting household items to setting up comfortable spaces for them to rest and play, these tips will give you peace of mind and help you focus on building a strong, joyful bond with your new pup.

Puppy proofing indoors

While that coat rack may be perfectly placed for you and your guests, it’s also right at nose-level for a curious puppy looking for new "toys" to tug and chew on.  Follow these easy steps to keep your belongings safe from your furry friend’s playful antics and avoid any unexpected mishaps.

1. Protect your possessions

Safewise recommends
Rufus & Coco Chew Stopper
$15.50
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Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

Take a careful look around your home and put away anything you’d rather not see chewed, scratched, or otherwise turned into a puppy plaything. Pay special attention to items that could pose a danger, such as dangling blind cords, tempting curtain tassels, and loose tablecloths that could easily be pulled down. Even everyday items like shoes, bags, and household decorations can quickly fall victim to a curious puppy’s teeth and paws. By storing away these items or moving them out of reach, you’re not only protecting your belongings but also creating a safer space for your puppy to explore and learn.

Use a no-chew spray for any furniture you don’t want your puppy to chew on, and make sure you've blocked off any areas that are forbidden for the puppy.

2. Minimise escape routes

Safewise recommends
Dreambaby Retractable Gate
$82.90
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Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

Puppies are little Houdinis - blink, and they'll disappear out the door, out the gate and onto the rado. Do your best to prevent their tricks with deadbolts on doors, locks on windows, and pet gates for doorways or stairs. Motion sensors help protect your young escape artist and will send alerts to your smartphone when your puppy is not where they should be. While your puppy cannot escape through a cabinet, they could become trapped.

3. Remove dangerous items

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Dreambaby Outlet Plugs
$6.95(24 pack)
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From a puppy’s perspective, electrical cords are chew toys. Tuck cords away, enclose them in PVC pipe, or purchase cord protectors. Cover your outlets with outlet plugs. Keep anything that you don't want chewed on off of ground level and out of reach of your puppy. Safely store detergents and other household cleaners in a locked cupboard or on a high shelf. Likewise, trash cans may have items dangerous for consumption, so consider purchasing one that will stay closed even if it tips over.

4. Install a dog door

Safewise recommends
PetSafe StayWell Dog Door
$82.76
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Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

 A good dog door not only makes life easier for you, but it also helps your puppy become more independent and confident as they learn to move between indoors and outdoors safely. While there are many models to choose from, we’re particularly impressed by PetSafe’s range of dog doors, especially this budget-friendly dog door.

5. Keep puppies entertained

Safewise recommends
red kong dog toy
KONG
From$16.99
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Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

Interactive toys that encourage problem-solving or that require effort to get to the "reward" are perfect for keeping their minds engaged and reducing boredom, especially during times when you can’t give them your full attention.

KONG toys are a great solution for puppy entertainment, and they’re beloved by dog owners and trainers alike for good reason. These durable, rubber toys are designed to withstand even the most enthusiastic chewers and can be stuffed with treats, kibble, or even peanut butter to keep your puppy busy and happy.

Puppy proofing your backyard

Even if you plan to supervise your puppy in the backyard, these tips will help you avoid any search parties or unnecessary (and possibly expensive!) trips to the vet.

1. Mend gaps and holes

Puppies can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so look for holes of any size in your fences before letting your puppy outside. Cover any gaps with plastic-covered chicken wire or wooden slats. Make sure that all gates close securely, or even self-close. You can also use motion sensors to ensure the safety and security of your pup and loved ones. Unsecured decks and crawl spaces offer potential ways to escape or hide, so be sure to cover those too.

2. Secure garbage

Safewise recommends
Baby Safety Cabinet Locks
Booboo Child Safety Cupboard Locks
$12.20(10 pack)
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Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

One man’s trash could become his puppy’s treasure, but it doesn’t have to be. Purchase latches like these cabinet locks mentioned above so your puppy can’t get into your trash, yard waste, and recycling bins. They're also useful for securing cupboards indoors, too.

3. Prevent illness

Many plants, including daffodils and azaleas, can be harmful to dogs. Here's a list of common plants to watch out for when your puppy is outside. Keep your puppy free from ticks and other parasites by maintaining a well-trimmed lawn. Store any poisons and chemicals — like chlorine, fertiliser, and pesticides — securely and out of reach.

4. Hide tools and wires

Rakes, saws, and other yard tools can injure your puppy if they are stored improperly. Accessories like gloves and hoses may become chew toys if they are not put away. Exposed wiring outdoors is as dangerous as it is indoors, and it needs to be hidden or protected.

5. Safeguard cords, fire and water hazards

Safewise recommends
PetCords Heavy Duty Cord Protector
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Price is accurate as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

If you have a barbecue pit, pool, or other fire or water hazard, securing these areas with fencing and motion sensors can help keep your puppy out of harm’s way. Don’t forget about potential indoor hazards, too. Dangling cords from electronics or appliances can be especially tempting for a curious puppy and should be tucked away or covered to prevent chewing.

FAQ

To dog-proof your home, start by removing or securing any items that could be harmful or tempting, such as cords, small objects, and breakables within your dog’s reach. Additionally, block off access to hazardous areas like the kitchen or bathroom, and consider using pet gates or locks to keep your pup safe.

To make your yard safe for a puppy, ensure the fencing is secure with no gaps or spaces they can slip through, and remove any toxic plants or hazardous objects. Additionally, create a designated play area with soft ground or grass, and supervise them during outdoor time until you're confident they can explore safely.

Disclaimer
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time of publish and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on the retailer’s website at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. SafeWise Australia utilises paid affiliate links.
SafeWise Team
Written by
SafeWise Team

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