Pooch and Mutt's expert trainer, Jon, is here to show you new puppy parents how to puppy proof your house - creating a safe and hazard-free space for a growing pup.
In our training video, Jon explains some of the key things around the home you should be aware when preparing for the arrival of your puppy:
Toxic food
- Chocolate we love it... but it is toxic to dogs!
- Grapes in any form or variety such as raisins.
- Macadamia nuts which are a very common ingredient in cookies.
- Xylitol is sweetener used in zero sugar chewing gum and sweets.
- Alcohol, lock it away and be careful where you place your drinks. The floor and side tables are no longer a safe place.
- Medication. I know this is common sense. Keep it safely stored away.
Hazardous items
- Wires and cables are all over our homes. Tidy away the ones you can. If you can’t hide them, then you can get protective covers for them.
- Mobile phones and chargers. Get in the habit of putting them away and make sure our pup is closely supervised when they are in use.
- Batteries, they aren’t just a choking risk; they are poisonous if they leak after being swallowed. TV remote controls, E cigarettes and vapes all need to be kept out of the puppy’s way.
- Children's toys can be very similar in size and materials to puppy toys. But they won’t be as durable and apart from upsetting the children if they are ripped up, they are also a choke hazard.
- Cleaning items and chemicals. The cupboards underneath your sink and the garden shed will be full of chemical agents and pesticides. Be sure your pup can’t get into either!
Climbing hazards and escape routes
Puppies will go to great lengths to cause mischief! Be wary of household and outdoor items that may act as boosters during their naughty escapades.
- Furniture
- Foot stools
- Small tables
- Stairs
- Children's toys
Prepping your garden
- Make sure your boundaries are secure fences are high enough and any gaps are filled. Remember puppies can dig as well as climb.
- Make sure that your plants and shrubs are puppy friendly: Daffodils, Azalea, Aloe Vera and Ivy are just a few of the potential dangers, along with any weedkillers and pesticides.
- Adequate lighting is also very important, especially in the winter months. Toilet breaks are numerous for puppies and it’s important you can see that they are safe AND reward them for toileting outside.
Helpful tools and accessories
- Dog gates and crates will help keep your puppy safe with varying levels of freedom and supervision.
- Dog pens are useful to give your pup safe freedom in the garden.
- Kongs filled with healthy treats and other similar chew related toys will help keep your puppy safely occupied.
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