There are few things more exciting than bringing home a new puppy. Those little bundles of fur and joy are full of cuddles, happiness and lifelong companionship. With those snuggle sessions and puppy breath comes sharp teeth, boundless energy, and a penchant for finding trouble.
So, before bringing home a puppy it’s important to tour your home and make sure it’s safe for your new arrival. Let’s take a look at some simple steps you can take to puppy-proof your home:
Organize your electronic cords
Puppies are professionals at finding and chewing things they shouldn’t. At the very top of the list of things to prevent them from snacking on are electric wires and cords. Not only is it dangerous for your pup, but it could cost you a lot of money to replace the wires he chews. The best course of action is to take note of any loose or exposed cords then to bundle and secure them before the puppy comes home.
Lock up any cleaning supplies
Puppy-proofing is a lot like childproofing. You wouldn’t want your children getting into any toxic cleaning supplies, strong chemicals or poisons, and the same goes for your dog. Safely stow anything toxic in a cabinet, closet, or bin that can be securely locked or prevented from being opened. Puppies are nothing if not tenacious, so give any locks a good test to ensure their durability.
Offer your puppy his own space
Whether it’s a crate, a bed, or even a dedicated room, your puppy needs a space they can claim as their own. This gives them a place to decompress and safely tuck themselves away when they are tired or overwhelmed. As a perk, crate training your puppy early comes with many benefits designed to keep him and your home safe.
Establish physical boundaries
Your puppy will want to explore every nook and cranny of your home. It’s best to start in small doses and containing your puppy to certain areas is a great way to get him acclimated without introducing him to danger. Use baby gates to establish clear boundaries within your home. Not only will this eliminate some of the trouble he could find himself in, but gives you some peace of mind when you can’t keep your eye on him.
Stock up on toys
Sometimes no matter how hard you try, your puppy will get into something he shouldn’t. You can lessen those chances by supplying him with plenty of approved sources of entertainment like toys, chews, and even puzzles. Just fifteen minutes of mental stimulation can cause the same amount of fatigue as an hour of vigorous exercise or playtime. As a rule of thumb, a tired puppy is a good puppy.
