Last Updated: 28/05/2025
Have you just brought home a new puppy? Find out how to puppy proof your home in detail from our expert Vets
Author: Dr Olivia Clarke BSc BVMS MANZCVS (Unusual Pets, Avian)
Reading Time: 16 minutes - medium read
There are few experiences more exciting and joyous than bringing a new puppy home. However, just like a toddler, puppies are curious and notorious for getting into mischief! The importance of puppy-proofing your home cannot be understated and a lack of careful planning can be dangerous. It is essential for all new puppy owners to be prepared before bringing their puppy home to ensure their puppies safety and well being.
From electrical wires to household chemicals, there are many potential household hazards that need to be addressed to keep your puppy safe and healthy. In this article we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to puppy-proof your home, covering everything from the living area to the backyard. By following these tips, you can create a safe and welcoming environment for your new puppy to explore and thrive in.
The first thing to consider before bringing your new puppy home is the indoor and outdoor environment in which your puppy will be living. Survey your surroundings by walking around the house and backyard to identify any potential hazards. This may include things like electrical cords, household plants and items that puppies like to chew like clothing and shoes.
Letâs explore each area one by one to identify the potential hazards and discuss ways to reduce these risks.
Electrical wires and cords should be placed high out of reach so that they are not chewed, which could lead to electrocution. Cord protectors can also be used. Many indoor plants may be appealing to puppies and whilst it is possible for puppies to ingest non-toxic plants, this may cause digestive upsets. Furthermore, many indoor plants are toxic to pets so it is important to research this prior to bringing your puppy home to ensure they are not exposed to any poisonous plants.
Puppies are inquisitive and clever. This may lead to them getting into cupboards and ingesting foodstuffs that could make them sick. Child-proof locks can be used to secure drawers and cabinets. Many puppies also have a habit of rummaging through rubbish bins. Ensure you are properly covering bins and ideally keep bins contained within a cabinet or somewhere inaccessible to your puppy.
Some chemical products can be harmful to your puppy so be sure to keep laundry detergents and other cleaning products out of reach of your puppy and secured away in a high place or locked cupboard or drawer. Bathrooms can also pose a risk for potential drowning hazards! Keep toilet lids closed and baths covered and/or keep the bathroom door closed when your puppy is not directly supervised. If you store medications in the bathroom ensure they are locked away and kept up high out of reach.
Puppies explore the world with their mouths, so it's crucial to ensure small ingestible items are out of reach. Remove small objects lying around that could be swallowed and cause choking. This includes coins, buttons, rubber bands, and children's toys. Clothing and footwear are also enticing to curious puppies and can be a choking hazard or cause an intestinal obstruction so make sure to pick up your clothes and keep shoes stored away where your puppy cannot access.
Check and secure fences and be mindful of areas where your puppy may be able to dig under the fence and seal these areas as needed. Also ensure there is no access to any poisonous plants, pesticides or toxins such as rat bait or snail bait.
It is also necessary to consider the puppyâs safety around other pets if applicable. Pets like cats and dogs who are established in the household may require some time to adjust and slow introductions to the new puppy. It is important to monitor all new pet introductions closely to ensure there are no disputes, which could lead to serious distress or injury.
One of the best ways to make your puppy feel comfortable in the new environment is to create a designated, safe space for them to retreat to. Crate training is an excellent way to do this. You can learn more about crate training here.
Finally, the most important tip of all is to never leave your puppy unsupervised, especially in the early days when they're still learning the rules of their new environment. Keep a close eye on them to prevent accidents and intervene if they get into trouble.
Careful consideration and planning in advance can ensure your home is well prepared in time for when your puppy comes along to join the family. By following these tips you will be keeping your puppy safe and healthy so you can focus on the more important things like playtime and cuddles.
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