Puppies explore their surroundings by placing everything they can find in their mouths. Although this is typical behavior, especially in teething puppies, it can be annoying and even dangerous if your dog cheats on the wrong items. Puppy-proofing might be time-consuming and costly, but it’s well worth it to ensure your pet’s safety.
Vital Ways to Puppy-Proof Your Home
Puppies, like curious children, can get into things that aren’t good for them, including chewing on your shoes or tangled up electrical lines. It is essential to “puppy proof” the parts of your home where the puppy will spend time before bringing the dog home.
In this way, your new dog will always be safe and satisfied, even when you can’t be there to watch over them. Follow these guidelines to make your home as secure as possible.
Put Human Food Away From Them
A dog needs only a short period to learn precisely where the treats are kept. The dog’s food and any human foods, especially those known to be hazardous to canines, should be hidden out of sight while you can’t watch it to prevent accidents, overeating, and possible poisoning.
Also, giving them human food, especially cooked bones, is not good because that can lead to choking and other health problems for your dog’s mouth, throat, and intestines. In severe circumstances, a vet surgeon may perform surgery to remove it.
Take Care of Electrical Wiring
Make sure your puppy can’t chew or bite through any electrical cords in the house by hiding them or taping them down. Contemplate whether or not purchasing outlet covers would be a smart move. This will prevent your puppy from being electrocuted and may also prevent you from having to pay for expensive repairs or replacements.
Give Them Space
Your dog needs a “safe zone,” such as a crate, pen, or a comfy sofa in the basement, where they may feel secure while you’re away. There are various situations in which a crate might come in handy, such as while traveling with your dog, taking them to the groomer, or waiting for a few hours at the vet.
While preparing to puppy-proof your home, you should also consider getting your puppies vaccinated against any health problems. Go to a vet that provides routine cat vaccines as well as for dogs.
Install a Pet Gate
Dog gates are another great tool for keeping your new puppy secured. Dog-friendly flooring and a few toys can keep your puppy from chewing on non-essential stuff while you work on training it. Adjustable plastic and metal versions are widely available at pet stores, although they can be cumbersome and unsightly.
Ensure the gate is high enough that your puppy can’t jump over it, and the top is rounded to protect its paws. A common issue is that pups get into a “panicked state” and start biting the pet gate when left alone. As a result, getting your pet’s teeth checked regularly by a veterinary dentist is crucial.
The Takeaway
Bringing a puppy into your house for the first time may be quite the adjustment, primarily if you’ve never owned a dog. Get used to laughing at silly things, but your primary focus should be keeping your new pet as safe as possible. If you and your new companion follow these guidelines, you can enjoy many happy years together without experiencing any anxiety.
