Puppy Proofing: 10 Must-Do’s Before the Bundle of Joy Arrives

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of bringing home a new puppy – choosing names, buying toys and food, making vet appointments, and just dreaming about your new best friend. But that flurry of excitement can make us forget the most important thing – puppy proofing! Here are the 10 must-dos before you bring her home.

#1 – Breakables

Make sure anything breakable is not at your puppy’s level. This includes places she can reach when standing on back legs, jumping, or climbing.

#2 – Wires

All electrical cords are a threat. Make sure you have yours up and out of her reach. Zip ties are handy for this and you can use x-pens to block off areas where you cannot hide the wires.

#3 – Garbage

All garbage cans should either be under sinks (in a cupboard) or have a locking lid (so if your puppy knocks it over, they still can’t get anything out.

#4 – Child Locks

These little guys are great for keeping puppies out as well as kids! Use them on cupboards you don’t want your puppy exploring.

#5 – Pet Gates

Essential for keeping your puppy in or out of areas. Make sure you get the right height so you puppy can’t climb or jump them.

#6 – X-Pens

Exercise pens are a must-have for puppy parents. Not just for keeping your puppy penned in, but to block off larger entryways that are too big for baby gates.

#7 – Medicine

All medicines need to be out of reach. Put them up high and in child-locked cupboards to be safe. This includes seemingly harmless items like toothpaste and mouthwash. These can make your puppy just as sick as pain relievers can.

#8 – Chewables

Anything your dog can chew – DVDs, books, magazines, shoes, toys, etc., should be put up out of reach of your puppy. Empty your lower bookshelves and use them to store dog toys instead. Or, put items in lidded bins that your puppy cannot open.

#9 – Door Latches

Check all your doors – can any of them be pushed open? If so, you will need to fix you latches before the puppy comes, or put up baby gates.

#10 – Dangerous Items

Finally, go through your house and make sure anything that could harm your dog is out of reach. This includes cleaning supplies, paint, nails, craft supplies, small pieces to toys, etc.