How to Puppy-Proof Your Home

Start with a puppy zone

Use gates or a playpen to create a manageable area. Get on the floor and scan from puppy height for anything chewable, swallowable, sharp, unstable, or easy to pull down.

Remove common hazards

• Electrical cords, batteries, coins, string, socks, and small toys
• Medicines, cleaning products, nicotine, cannabis, and personal-care items
• Chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol products, alcohol, caffeine, onions, and unsecured trash
• Toxic plants, fertilizers, pesticides, and rodent bait
• Open stairs, balconies, pools, fireplaces, and recliners
• Blind cords, plastic bags, laundry, and children’s craft supplies

Manage instead of constantly correcting

Close doors, use covered trash cans, secure cabinets, and keep a legal chew option nearby. Rotate a few toys rather than leaving everything out. Supervise actively or use the puppy zone when you cannot watch.

Plan for emergencies

Save your regular veterinarian and nearest emergency clinic in your phone. If you suspect poisoning or a swallowed object, contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service promptly instead of waiting for symptoms.

Health and safety note: This guide is educational and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or a qualified reward-based trainer. Contact your veterinarian promptly about illness, injury, pain, ingestion of a hazardous item, or a sudden behavior change.