Keep Your Dog Safe: How to Dog-Proof Your Home

• June 16, 2024
• BY Skylar Duck
• 
  Dog

Tips to Dog-Proof Your Home

Hey there, pet parents! One of the most important steps in dog care is creating a safe environment for your furry companion. 

Many common dog health problems and emergencies happen because dogs ingest or are exposed to something harmful in their environment.

Keep the area your dog has access to free from hazards and dangers that could harm them. In this article, I’ll share some essential tips for dog-proofing your home to keep your beloved pup safe and happy.

Remove Hazards:

• Remove any potential dangers from your dog’s accessible areas. 
• Toxic plants, trash, medications, and human food products should be kept out of reach. 
• Common dog toxins include xylitol, grapes, chocolate, medications, compost piles, bones, cannabis, nicotine, rodenticides, antifreeze and pesticides.
• Ensure hazardous items like cleaning supplies and electrical cords are safely secured. 

Secure Your Yard:

• If you have a yard, it’s essential to ensure it’s securely fenced to prevent escapes.
• Regularly inspect the fencing for any gaps or damage that could allow your dog to slip through. 
• If you don’t have a fenced yard, always walk your dog on a leash to keep them safe from wandering off, and injury by other animals, cars or toxic material

Limit Access:

• Create a small, controlled, dog-proofed area for your dog to roam freely in your home. 
• Use crates, pens, or baby gates to confine them to this area, especially when they’re unsupervised or prone to getting into mischief. 
• This not only keeps them safe but also prevents accidents and damage to your home.

Teach Independence:

• Train your dog to stay in a crate or small, confined area when you can’t directly supervise. This is one of the best ways to keep them safe.
• Teach your dog to be alone and feel secure in their environment to reduce separation anxiety. 
• Start by gradually increasing the time your dog spends alone, providing plenty of toys and comfort items to keep them occupied. 
• Positive reinforcement and crate training can help them feel more comfortable when left alone.

Think Like a Toddler:

• Think of your dog like a toddler when dog-proofing your home. 
• Dogs are curious creatures and will explore every nook and cranny, often finding things we never thought they would. 
• Take a proactive approach to identify and eliminate potential hazards before they become a problem.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can create a safe and secure environment for your furry friend to thrive in. 

Keeping your dog in safe spaces, away from hazards will help keep them healthy and out of the emergency room.

Your dog’s safety and well-being are in your hands. Take the time to dog-proof your home and give your dog the happy, healthy life it deserves.

Here’s to many tail wags and joyful moments ahead with your beloved canine companion!