How to puppy proof your home, inside and out

A new puppy is a great adventure. From the tip of that wet nose to their wildly wagging tail, they make your world a happier place. However, they can also wreak havoc. Puppies are inquisitive, mischievous, and see everything you own—with no regard for price or sentiment—as a potential toy.

To make sure your new little addition brings nothing but joy, it’s wise to puppy proof. It will not only protect your shoes and other valuables, but it will keep your puppy safe and secure. The tips below guide you through puppy proofing your home, inside and out.

While your coat rack is conveniently located for you and your guests, your puppy may be able to reach your hanging belongings as well. Follow these effective steps and you won’t encounter any mishaps.

One of the best ways to minimise damage is to create a space just for your puppy, complete with a bed and plenty of safe toys like the Classic Kong. This helps your puppy acclimate to their new environment and allows you to introduce it to other parts of your home as it matures. Keeping only items that are puppy friendly and chewable for your pet in this area is a good way to teach good chewing habits as well.

Puppies are Houdinis. 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. Secure cabinet doors with latches, just like you would when babyproofing.

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.

Even if you plan to supervise your puppy in the backyard, these tips will help you avoid any search parties or unnecessary trips to the veterinarian.

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.

One man’s trash could become his puppy’s treasure, but it doesn’t have to be. Purchase latches (like the cabinet locks mentioned above) so your puppy can’t get into your trash, yard waste, and recycling bins.

Many plants, including daffodils and azaleas, can be harmful to dogs. Animal Welfare Victoria has 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.

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.

If you have a barbecue pit, pool, or other fire or water hazard, you’ll want to safeguard them with fencing and motion sensors.

Whether your puppy just arrived or is on its way, it’s time to puppy proof your home. Use these tips to get off on the right paw for your puppy’s happiness and health.