Bringing a new puppy into your home can be a pretty exciting and stressful time. Puppies can be just as curious and demanding as babies, so it’s important to take some of the same steps. One thing you should definitely do before bringing home your new furry bundle of joy is to make your home as puppy proof as possible.
As silly as it may sound, a good first step is to physically get on the ground and observe your home from the perspective of a puppy. When you actually get on all fours, it’s easier to spot potential dangers.
Some key things to look out for are loose or accessible electrical wires, poisonous items, choking hazards, and places where the puppy could escape or get stuck. Puppies are naturally very curious, so make sure to move some things around to make sure you’re checking every possible inch.
Electrical cords should be tucked away or covered with something that your puppy can’t move. Household cleaners, food, and even household plants should be kept well out of reach. Be very careful of any loose knobs or other small objects that your puppy could potentially chew and choke on.
If you have stairs in your home, it might be a good idea to put up a gate and make sure your puppy can’t fit through the bars. It can be hard to puppy proof your entire house, but gates are a great way to keep your new pet in the safe spaces of your home.
Raising a puppy always comes with some unexpected challenges, but being prepared before your pup even walks through the door is definitely the best strategy. The more time you spend before you bring them home, the more time you’ll have to just enjoy their puppy cuteness.