Dog-proofing your home to welcome a new pet is similar to baby-proofing your home. There will be things you had never considered a danger, that will have to be monitored from now on.
Regardless of if you’re welcoming a new puppy or an older rescue dog, setting aside time to dog-proof your home can help make the transition smoother. Here are six helpful tips for dog-proofing your home.
Keep Harmful Substances Out of Reach
The first step in dog-proofing your home is putting harmful substances out of reach. Things like cleaning supplies and medications should be stored in a top cupboard, if possible. If you don’t have room to put your cleaning supplies on a high shelf, consider keeping them stored in a bucket behind a closed door. You can also use child locks to secure cupboard doors if necessary, as dogs can often push them open with their noses.
Remember that “harmful substances” means something different to dogs. There are plenty of foods that humans eat regularly that can cause serious harm to our furry friends.
Use Gates and Crates
Using durable dog gates can help you keep dogs away from off-limit areas without depending on closed doors. This is very helpful for families that rely on open doors for airflow within their homes.
It’s also worth investing in a well-structured dog crate and taking time to crate train your new dog. Crates often act as a secure place to keep your dog if you’ll be gone for a while, and can also be a place where they feel safe and comfortable.
The experts at Pet Life recommend expandable crates for smaller dogs so that you can keep them secure on the go. Learn more about Pet Life and check out their expandable crates to keep your dog safe when you’re not at home.
Lock Your Trash
There’s something about the trash that seems to make dogs go wild. Reduce the temptation— and the mess— by keeping all trash secured in a heavy-duty tote or can with a locking top. You can get simple snap-lock garbage bins at any department store. Be sure to lock outdoor trash as well, to avoid spills that could attract your dog or rodents.
If possible, consider using compost and recycling to make the trash less appealing to your pets. Ensure that you rinse your jars and bottles, and keep your compost bin secured as well.
Check Your Floors Daily
As with young children, you’ll need to check your floors daily to ensure there are no hidden dangers. Things like small toys or loose wires can be tempting for dogs who love to chew. These seemingly innocuous items can cause choking, electrocution, and obstructions.
Give your floor a scan each day to ensure there’s nothing present that could harm your dog. Encourage everyone in the family to keep their toys put away or kept in a safe area. This is a wonderful opportunity to give your children age-appropriate responsibilities to help care for your new family member.
Windows and Window Coverings
Windows are commonly overlooked as a dangerous area for pets. However, there are a few hidden threats to consider here.
The first issue is the window screens. If you have a social dog that likes to jump up and say hello as people walk by, your beloved pet could potentially fall through the window. Screens are rarely secure enough to withstand the weight of a dog, especially if their claws are affecting the integrity of the mesh. For apartment-dwellers or those in houses with high windows, this could be devastating.
Another hazard is the blinds themselves. Long cords can become choking hazards, either by chewing or entanglement.
Using cordless blinds or roman shades will remove the choking hazard, and can be used to block tempting sights from the outside world when the windows are open. You can also put end tables or other furniture barriers in front of these windows to reduce contact.
Wipe Up Cleaning Supplies
There’s nothing that smells as fresh and inviting as recently cleaned floors and furniture. Unsurprisingly, these tantalizing scents can be tempting for your dog as well. Whenever you clean surfaces within your dog’s reach, ensure that everything is rinsed with hot water. Then, be sure to wipe up any excess moisture with a dry cloth.
It’s also important to note that natural cleaning supplies aren’t an exception. As dogs are sensitive to so many plants, things like tea tree oil can be as debilitating as chemical cleaners when consumed by an animal. By playing it safe and adding these extra steps to your cleaning routine, you’ll be able to keep your home safe for your dog.
Rethink Your Plants and Flowers
As mentioned before, dogs are sensitive to a lot of plants. Why? Both dogs’ and cats’ livers aren’t able to process the plant matter, creating a toxic effect that can lead to liver failure within mere hours.
Some common offenders include:
- Lilies
- Daffodils
- Tulips
- Peonies
- Aloe
- Jade
- Ivy
If you have indoor plants, consider using high shelves or hanging baskets to keep them secure. Better yet, don’t bring them into the house at all.
Dog Proof Your Yard
It’s also important to be mindful of plants around your yard. If you’re an avid gardener, avoid planting things that could cause harm to your pet when they go outside to play. Additionally, avoid using chemicals like herbicides and pesticides when tending to your garden.
If you’re doing any outside renovations, use a large magnet to sweep the yard and pick up any nails or hazards that could injure your dog. It’s also worth installing a fence to block access to the road or your pool.
Get to Know Your Dog
As time passes, you’ll get to know your dog better. You may find that your beloved pooch has no interest in the trash or in chewing toys found around on the floor. Until then, focus on dog-proofing and training to help welcome your new family member to a safe environment.