Articles

Household Safety Tips for Your New Puppy

Puppy Proofing Your Home

Playful and intelligent puppies investigate objects by touching, chewing and tasting them. Growing puppies love to explore, but need protection from household items that are dangerous if swallowed.

Dangerous Items to Keep Away From Your Puppy:

  • String, ribbon, yarn, sewing supplies and other small household items
  • Paper clips, erasers, staples, rubber bands, plastic bags and twist ties
  • Coins, small board game pieces, fragile keepsakes and ornaments
  • Medication, vitamins, pill bottles, dental floss, razors and cotton balls
  • Household and automotive chemicals ("pet-safe" antifreeze is available)
  • Toxic houseplants, including philodendron, mistletoe and poinsettia
  • Toxic garden plants, including lily, azalea, daffodil, tomato and hydrangea

More Ways to Keep Your Puppy Safe:

  • Provide pet-safe puppy toys to keep your puppy occupied
  • Use covered trashcans in your house and garage
  • Keep kitchen countertops clean and clear of food items to reduce temptation
  • Store household chemicals and poisons in a locked cabinet
  • Keep toilet lids down so your puppy can't fall in or drink from the bowl
  • Keep electrical cords and wires out of sight or secured to walls
  • Secure dangling blind and curtain cords out of reach
  • In winter, rinse your dog's paws with warm water and towel-dry after outings to rinse off snow and melting chemicals that irritate the footpads and mouth
  • Keep your dog indoors and safe from extreme weather conditions year-round