Puppy-Proofing Your Home

Inside the Home

  • Tuck away or cover all electrical cords. Puppies chew on everything, and cords are a serious shock and fire hazard. Use cord covers or move them up and out of reach.

  • Install baby gates to limit access to rooms, staircases, laundry areas, and bathrooms.

  • Secure trash cans with lids or keep them in locked cabinets. Puppies can access and eat dangerous things from the garbage.

  • Store all cleaning products, chemicals, medications (including vitamins and supplements), and pest control products in secured cabinets — these are all toxic to dogs.

  • Remove small choking hazards from floors: coins, rubber bands, children's toys, jewelry, hair ties.

  • Secure heavy furniture that could tip. Puppies can pull on tablecloths and bring items crashing down.

  • Tie up dangling cords from blinds and curtains — these are a strangulation risk.

  • Check behind and beneath furniture — puppies can get wedged in tight spots.

  • Remove or secure toxic houseplants. Many common plants are dangerous or deadly to dogs, including aloe vera, pothos, sago palm, tulips, and lilies. Consult the ASPCA Animal Poison Control list for a full reference.

  • Use nonslip rugs on slippery floors. Young puppies haven't developed full coordination, and slipping can cause injury.

  • Keep food out of reach — don't leave anything edible on low counters or tables.

  • Cover electrical outlets as an extra precaution.

  • Provide a safe, puppy-proofed play area using a playpen or a gated section of your home where your pup can explore without getting into trouble.

  • Supervise all play inside the home, especially in the early weeks.

Think of it this way: you're bringing a curious, mischievous toddler into your home who can fit into smaller spaces than you'd expect and reach things you'd never anticipate. Puppy-proofing isn't just about protecting your belongings — it's about keeping your puppy safe from serious harm.

Before your puppy arrives, do a crawl-level walkthrough of your home. Literally get down on their level and look for hazards. Then check your yard the same way.

Outside in the Yard

  • Fence your yard securely and check for gaps or weak spots a small puppy could squeeze through.

  • Inspect for toxic plants. Many common garden plants are dangerous to dogs, including azaleas, foxglove, oleander, yew, and rhododendron. When in doubt, consult the ASPCA Animal Poison Control database.

  • Store garden tools, fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides in locked sheds or cabinets.

  • Block access to pools, hot tubs, and ponds — puppies can fall in and drown.

  • Clean up yard debris: rocks, fallen branches, and mushrooms (wild mushrooms can be highly toxic).

  • Check all escape routes. Make sure gates are secure and self-latching. Puppies are escape artists.

  • Avoid using pesticides, fertilizers, or de-icing products in areas where your puppy plays — many are toxic when walked through and licked off paws.

  • Empty standing water — this can harbor mosquitoes that carry heartworm disease.

  • Block access to the garage. Antifreeze, oils, sharp tools, and other hazards are commonly found there.

  • Provide shade and fresh water when your puppy is outdoors. Puppies overheat easily.

  • Cover or secure outdoor electrical cords.

  • Keep yard gates locked.

  • Secure your compost bin — composting materials can be toxic to dogs.

  • Never leave your puppy unsupervised outdoors.

Sources: AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association), VCA Animal Hospitals, ASPCA Animal Poison Control, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), PetMD, and trusted Veterinarians along Winter's 17-year journey as a dog mom.

The Good Boy Foundation is committed to providing valuable resources and education to empower pet parents in caring for their furry companions. However, it's important to note that the information provided on our website is intended for educational purposes only and should never replace the advice or treatment provided by a licensed veterinarian. While we strive to offer accurate and helpful guidance, we cannot be held responsible for any outcomes or consequences resulting from the application of this information. Pet parents are encouraged to consult with their veterinarian for personalized guidance and recommendations tailored to their pet's specific needs and circumstances.