Puppies are adorable but it’s important to make sure your fur-baby is safe at home. Puppies have very sharp teeth and love to chew things. They also require regular toilet training to avoid accidents. Here are some tips to help puppy-proof your humble abode and protect your pup from injury.

Chewing hazards

Tape all electrical cords so that they are out of reach.

Tape any of the cords or chains from your curtains or blinds as these can wrap around a puppy’s neck and cause choking.

Remove any indoor plants that may be toxic to your puppy. Ask your vet, breeder or pet store for information about toxic plants.

Dangerous substances

Keep all medications, including any dog supplements, in a safe area the puppy cannot access.

Secure any bathroom rubbish rather than leaving it in an open bin, as pups can quickly grab anything in a bin, including discarded razors.

Keep food out of reach as some foods can be toxic to dogs. For example, chocolate, onions, alcohol and foods high in fat, sugar or salt can be harmful.

Avoid falls

If you have internal stairs, you’ll need to install a portable gate to save the puppy from climbing where it shouldn’t go or falling down the stairs and injuring itself.

Be aware that puppies love to follow you everywhere. So, when you go through a door, lean back on a rocking chair, or step back from the stove with a hot saucepan, your pup may be underneath your feet.

Toilet training

Pick a suitable spot in the garden that will be their toilet area and get your puppy use to going in the same area straight after a walk, play, eating or drinking water.

Make sure toilet training is a positive experience and give rewards for good behaviour.