Here’s How to Dog-Proof Your Home the Right Way

There are about 69 million households in the US with at least one dog. Americans love their furry friends.

Are you thinking of getting a dog for the first time? The emotional and mental benefits of having a loyal pet, such as a dog, at home are unmatched. 

But it’s not all fun and games. Taking care of a dog is a lot of work, and you need to be prepared.

Specifically, you need to know how to dog-proof your home, for their safety and the safety of your personal belongings. There are countless dog-proofing ideas that will make your home more comfortable for them and less stressful for you.

Keep reading below for the top dog-proofing tips that will keep your home from becoming a doggy disaster. 

No More Accidents

One of the first things you’ll want to do is potty train your puppy if buying a young dog. Few people have time to clean up each time a dog has to go to the bathroom.

If you have a fenced-in backyard, consider yourself very lucky. Many dog owners don’t and have to take them for a walk each time they need to relieve themselves.

But if that backyard is secure, you can add a dog door to allow them to go in and out as they please, making your life so much more convenient. 

There are also a few things you can do to dog-proof your yard. Lines the bottom of the fence with chicken wire, or another piece of wood can prevent them from digging under the fence. 

You’ll also want to research all your plants, as many common backyard landscaping plants are toxic to dogs if they eat them. 

How to Dog-Proof Your Home: The Bathroom

The easiest way to dog-proof your bathroom is to keep the doors closed at all times. In case you forget though, always lower the toilet seat to prevent dirty drinking.

Don’t leave hot items plugged in, like a curling iron. Store toilet paper in high, hard-to-reach places.

Use a trash can with a lid that latches. And keep soaps, sponges, and loofahs up high and out of the way.

The Living Room

This is usually where dogs spend most of their time. If the family is gone all day, it’s important to keep the windows closed and covered with curtains. 

Otherwise, your dog might stare out the windows and bark at anyone who walks by. They may see other dogs going for a walk and scratch at the windows trying to get out and join them.

Keep houseplants out of reach, and again, know if they’re toxic to dogs or not. Make sure all decor is out of reach, and keep important items off the coffee table. 

Have dog toys available so that they choose to play with those rather than other items they might find around the home. 

Keep Your Dog Safe and Out of Trouble

Owning a dog is an absolute joy. But it will be much less stressful if you take the time to learn how to dog-proof your home. It keeps them safe and out of trouble, and it keeps your mind at ease, especially when you aren’t home.

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