If you’re thinking of adding a new puppy to your family it is just as important to prepare your home as it is to prepare your mind! Puppies are babies. They will get into things they don’t know are bad for them. In order to avoid any unnecessary accidents, you will need to do some prep work.

Get rid of harmful items

Make sure all potentially harmful items are out of a puppy’s reach. These items can include medicines, cleaning supplies, food, etc. These things can cause accidental poisoning or injury if ingested.

Invest in barriers

Baby gates, crates, and playpens are always recommended if you can’t monitor your new puppy. Barriers help keep them safe and out of harm’s way.

Hide your trash

Puppies are notorious for getting into things, that includes garbage. If you need to, switch out your trash cans for ones with lids or hide them in cabinetry or in your pantry. Don’t forget about your bathroom trashcans too.

Check for harmful plants

Some plants can be harmful to dogs if ingested. Do a quick search to see if yours may put your new pet at risk.

Pet-Proof your yard

If you don’t have a fence already, consider putting one up or adding an invisible fence. Although puppies need to be monitored outside at all times when they are young you will want to plan for the future. If you’re in Indiana, mention our name at Invisible Fence to get free installation!

Be prepared for accidents

Finally, accidents happen. No matter how careful you are sometimes they are unavoidable. We recommend planning for it by investing in pet insurance. Use our breeder code (BR1CV7513) for one month free of Trupanion pet health insurance after you take your puppy home.

If something serious comes up it is always a good idea to contact your vet or in the case of ingestion of a harmful substance contact poison control.

 

Follow these steps and you should be just fine! Don’t sweat it too much and enjoy your new puppy!