Bringing Home a New Puppy? The Hidden Dangers Most Owners Miss
Adding a new puppy to the family is exciting, but the home could be a safety hazard if not prepared properly.
Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting moment, but it's crucial to ensure your home is safe for your four-legged friend. According to Yana Sinkevich, founder of dog wellness company The Hearty Paw, there are several hidden dangers that new puppy owners should be aware of. Puppies explore their surroundings using their noses and mouths, making everyday household items potential hazards.
Sinkevich recommends checking for items like wires behind entertainment centers, socks left on the floor, and open toilets, as these can be enticing for curious puppies.
Stairs can be particularly risky for puppies, who are still learning how to navigate their growing bodies. To prevent access to stairs, Sinkevich suggests using baby gates, which can also keep puppies out of rooms with additional hazards, such as bathrooms. However, smaller dogs may slip through railings, so gates must be stable and secure.
Toilets should always be closed to prevent puppies from accessing any cleaning products or unflushed remnants. Bathrooms, containing medications, toiletries, and cleaning supplies, should be gated or have doors closed when unsupervised. Entertainment centers, desks, and home offices are also tempting for puppies due to accessible wires. Sinkevich recommends blocking off access to these areas, securing wires behind furniture, and unplugging electronics when not in use.
For many puppies, items left on the floor can serve as chew toys, posing choking risks or causing bowel obstructions. Shoes, socks, and clothing should be stored away in a location inaccessible to the puppy. If a puppy ingests a piece of clothing or another foreign object, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Some household hazards are less obvious than others. Leaning or standing mirrors can be knocked over by curious puppies, posing injury risks. Securely position mirrors to prevent tipping. Houseplants can also be toxic to dogs if ingested. Common toxic plants include sago palms, tulips, azaleas, and aloe vera. If these plants are present, move them out of reach.
Human medications, cleaning products, and yard-maintenance products should be stored securely out of a puppy's reach, preferably in closed cabinets or secure locations.
To identify potential hazards, Sinkevich advises getting down to your puppy's level and searching for items that could be chewed, knocked over, or tangled in. By creating a safer environment, you can focus more on training, bonding, and cuddling with your new puppy, minimizing worry and maximizing joy.
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