Welcoming a dog into your home is exciting—but your living space may be full of unnoticed dangers. Just like baby-proofing for toddlers, dog-proofing prevents accidents, injuries, and late-night vet visits.
Here’s a room-by-room checklist to make your home safe and pet-friendly, whether you’ve got a curious puppy or a sneaky senior pup.
🛋️ Living Room
- Secure electrical cords: Use cord protectors or conceal them behind furniture to prevent chewing.
- Remove choking hazards: Pick up coins, batteries, rubber bands, and kids’ toys from the floor.
- Anchor unstable furniture: Dogs that jump or lean could tip over shelves or lamps.
- Watch out for candles and open flames: Curious noses can get burned. Opt for flameless candles.
🍽️ Kitchen
- Use childproof latches on lower cabinets: Especially important for cleaning supplies and trash cans.
- Keep food out of reach: Counter-surfing dogs can get into chocolate, grapes, onions, and other toxic foods.
- Store plastic bags securely: They pose a suffocation risk.
- Block access to stove knobs: Yes—dogs have accidentally turned on burners.
🛏️ Bedroom
- Keep medication out of reach: Even over-the-counter pills can be fatal to dogs.
- Secure laundry and shoes: Socks and undergarments are common causes of dangerous blockages.
- Remove jewelry, hair ties, and pins from nightstands: These small items are irresistible—and dangerous to swallow.
🚿 Bathroom
- Close toilet lids: Not only is it gross, but some toilet cleaners are toxic if ingested.
- Store razors, medications, and grooming tools in cabinets: Don’t leave them on counters.
- Keep the trash can lidded or in a cupboard: Used dental floss, Q-tips, and sanitary products are serious health hazards.
🚪 Entryway / Mudroom
- Use a leash hook or basket: Keep leashes, collars, and harnesses organized and off the floor.
- Secure doorways with baby gates: Especially if your dog likes to dart outside or greet guests too enthusiastically.
- Store boots and bags high up: Dogs love to sniff for food wrappers or gum hidden in bags (xylitol alert!).
🧺 Laundry Room
- Store detergents and dryer sheets up high: Most are toxic to pets.
- Check washer/dryer before use: Cats aren’t the only ones who sneak into cozy spots!
🌿 Backyard & Balcony
- Secure fencing and gates: Check for loose boards or gaps under the fence.
- Remove toxic plants: Common offenders include azaleas, lilies, and sago palms.
- Pick up tools and fertilizers: Keep sharp or chemical items in locked sheds.
General Safety Tips
- ID Tags & Microchip: Make sure your dog’s contact info is current.
- Keep emergency numbers handy: Save your vet’s number and the nearest emergency clinic.
- Use pet cameras if needed: Monitor pups while you’re away, especially during the adjustment phase.
Final Thoughts
Your dog depends on you to make their environment safe. With a few simple changes and routine checkups around your home, you’ll prevent accidents and protect your best friend from hidden hazards.
Dog-proofing is less about restriction and more about peace of mind—for you and your pup.
