How to Puppy-Proof Your Home Before Bringing Them In

Getting a new puppy is exciting, but your home needs to be safe first. Here’s how to puppy-proof your home so your new furry friend can explore safely.

Bringing home a new puppy is like welcoming a curious toddler—except this one has sharper teeth and a knack for finding trouble! Before your new bundle of fur arrives, it’s essential to prepare your home so they can explore, play, and learn in a safe environment. Puppy-proofing not only prevents accidents but also helps protect your belongings (and your sanity).

Here’s your step-by-step guide to making your home puppy-safe before the big day.

1. Secure Hazardous Items

Just like baby-proofing, you’ll want to remove or secure anything dangerous your puppy might chew, swallow, or knock over.

Store cleaning products, medications, and chemicals in locked cabinets. Keep sharp objects, plastic bags, and small choking hazards out of reach. Hide electrical cords or use cord protectors to keep them safe from chewing.

💡 Pro Tip: Puppies love to chew during teething, so be proactive with protection.

2. Block Off Dangerous Areas

Your puppy doesn’t need access to every part of the house right away.

Use pet gates to block stairs and unsafe rooms. Close off laundry rooms, garages, and storage areas.

This creates a safe zone while your pup learns the rules.

3. Protect Your Furniture and Belongings

Puppies are curious by nature, so be prepared for a little (or a lot) of nibbling.

Invest in chew-proof covers for table legs. Keep shoes, clothes, and personal items off the floor. Use washable covers for sofas and beds.

4. Create a Puppy-Safe Zone

Every new puppy should have their own space for rest, play, and training.

Choose a quiet corner for their crate and bed. Add soft blankets, a washable dog bed, a few chew toys, and water nearby. Make sure it’s away from drafts and direct sunlight.

5. Think Like a Puppy

Get on their level—literally! Crawl around the house and see what they might get into.

Loose items on low shelves? Move them higher. Open trash cans? Switch to one with a secure lid. Accessible houseplants? Check if they’re toxic with this Non-Toxic Houseplants Guide.

6. Prepare the Backyard (if applicable)

Your outdoor space needs safety checks too.

Repair broken fence panels and close gaps. Remove toxic plants, sharp objects, or harmful garden chemicals. Ensure there’s shade and fresh water available. Consider an outdoor playpen or fence panels for supervised play.

7. Stock Up on Puppy Essentials

Make sure you’re ready with the right supplies before they arrive:

Puppy food and water bowls

Puppy training pads for early potty training

Interactive toys for mental stimulation

Collar ID tag, and leash

Puppy-proofing your home takes time, but it’s one of the best investments you can make in your new pet’s safety and happiness. Once your home is ready, you can focus on building a loving bond with your new furry family member—without worrying about constant chaos.