As a pup parent, it’s exciting bringing a new dog or puppy into your home. But it’s also important to think about the safety of your four-legged friend and how you can make sure the environment is hazard-free.
In this blog post, we’ll examine some of the potential hazards and pitfalls lurking in your home that you might not have realised could be dangerous to your pet. We’ll also share our top 10 tips to help you dog-proof your home and keep your pup safe.
The Importance of Dog Proofing Your Home
It’s vital to make sure your home is a safe, protected environment for your pet to explore and relax in. Dogs are naturally curious animals, and this means they can often end up getting into places that may not always be safe. That’s why it’s so important to understand which areas of the home are most dangerous and take steps to make sure your dog stays away from them.
As well the conventional and obvious dangers like sharp objects and chemicals, even less obvious items like common houseplants can be toxic to dogs. But with a little forward planning, it’s relatively easy to make your home safe and secure for your furry friend. Follow these 10 simple tips to dog-proof your home and keep your pup safe:
1) Keep Rubbish out Of Reach of Your Dog
Rubbish is a tempting snack for dogs, but it can contain lots of dangerous items like string, bones, food wrappers, and cleaning products. Make sure to secure your bins with lids or keep them in an area that’s inaccessible to your dog, such as a cupboard or laundry room.
2) Install Childproof Latches
Childproof latches are an excellent way to make sure your pup stays away from any hazardous areas of the home. You can find these at most hardware stores and they’re easy to install, so you can protect your dog from areas like cupboards with cleaning supplies, medications, or sharp objects. You can also invest in a baby gate to keep your pup out of certain rooms or off the stairs.
3) Cover All Electrical Cords
Chewing on cords can be very dangerous for dogs and can even lead to electric shock. Make sure to cover up any exposed wires with plastic tubing or cord protectors to prevent them from chewing. Also, make sure to give your pup plenty of chew toys so they can satisfy their urge without risking their safety.
4) Keep the Toilet Lid Down
Thirsty dogs may be tempted to take a drink out of the toilet bowls, but this can expose them to harmful bacteria and chemicals. Get into the habit of keeping the toilet lid closed when it’s not in use to stop your dog from drinking out of it. Investing in a pet water fountain can also be a great way to satisfy their thirst and save you from constantly refilling bowls.
5) Check for Toxic Household Plants
Not all plants are safe for dogs, and some can be very toxic if ingested. If you have any hazardous plants in your home, make sure to keep them out of reach or consider replacing them with pet-safe varieties. Additionally, cover up flowerpots with netting or other materials to make sure your pup can’t get into them, and check that the plants in your garden or driveway are dog-friendly!
6) Store All Food Out Of Reach from Your Dog
Food is a big temptation for most dogs, so make sure that any snacks or treats are securely stored away. This is especially important for foods like chocolate and grapes, which are toxic to dogs. Of course, an occasional treat is fine, but make sure to feed in moderation and choose healthy, pet-friendly snacks.
7) Use Pet-Safe, Non-Toxic Cleaning Products
Many common household cleaners can be toxic to pets, so make sure to use pet-safe cleaning agents when tidying up your home. You can find a variety of pet-friendly products at most major retailers and they’re often just as effective as chemical cleaners. Grooming products like shampoos, conditioners, and flea treatments should also be pet friendly.
8) Check Your Home for Choking Hazards
Small items like coins, kid’s toys, or jewellery can easily be swallowed by dogs, potentially leading to choking or intestinal blockage. Make sure to check your home for these choking hazards and keep them out of reach from your pup. You should also avoid giving them small toys or chew treats that could be swallowed.
9) Use Scent Deterrents
It can be difficult to keep a curious pup away from certain areas or items, but you can use scent deterrents like citrus or other unpleasant odors to prevent them from approaching. You can spray these scents around furniture that your pup shouldn’t climb on, doorways they aren’t allowed to enter, and other areas that can be dangerous. Just make sure to use pet-friendly options like vinegar or citrus oil.
10) Put up A Dog Fence
A good dog fence can be a great way to keep your four-legged friend safe and secure. Just make sure to use a fence that’s appropriate for the size and breed of your pet. When choosing a dog fence, you’ll also want to consider things like height, material, and visibility. And if your dog is a digger or jumper, you’ll need to consider solutions like underground barriers or angled fence tops.
Are you Ready to Dog-Proof Your Home?
Dog-proofing your home is a great way to ensure that your pup stays safe and healthy. Following these simple tips can help you create a safe, pet-friendly environment that will keep your furry friend out of harm’s way. Just remember to use common sense and caution when it comes to pet safety, and always be on the lookout for potential hazards.
Richard Rowlands
Richard is a copywriter and content creator who works with pet and veterinary businesses. When he’s not researching, writing, or creating content plans, he enjoys spending time with his rescue dog, Otto, and exploring new places. Check out his blog for savvy pet parents at richardrowlands.com or connect with him on LinkedIn.
