Before adopting a new dog, your home and yard need to be dog-proofed. There are many elements to consider. Dogs, especially young ones, explore and experience their world through smell and chew. Will you limit dog access to certain areas of your home or yard? What about items that are toxic, sharp, or small enough to swallow?
As a new dog owner, you need to see your home from a dogs point of view. This means getting on your knees and looking for any attractive items. A favorite item to chew on and play with is cords from blinds and electrical appliances. These items should be placed out of your reach as much as possible. Look for any small trinkets that a dog can reach. These items can be easily chewed, swallowed, tipped over, and broken. The key to remember is that if you think your dog could damage an object, it is up to you to get it out of reach.
Consider whether you will limit your dog’s ability to access certain areas of your home. If so, you must purchase and install dog barriers before you return home. Your local pet store will have a variety of barriers. Just make sure it’s high enough that your dog can’t jump or climb over it. These barriers are easy to install and inexpensive. They are invaluable if you keep your dog out of areas that cannot be dog-proofed or where prized items are kept.
Be on the lookout for toxic items like cleaners, especially those with fragrances. Dogs are attracted to fragrance and can ingest these elements. If you can’t keep these items out of reach, at least put them in a locked closet. Don’t make the mistake of storing your dog’s food in the same area. If they smell your food, then all the items must be good to eat.
Be on the lookout for small or sharp objects that your dog can easily swallow. Your goal is to get all ingestible items out of reach. Have plenty of dog toys and chew treats within reach of your dog. This will help curb the dog’s instinctive desire to chew.
Once your home has been dog-proofed, you should do the same for your garage and yard. Try to prevent an accident by being alert and prepared. It is much cheaper and less stressful for you and your dog if you can avoid an accident than it is to pay an emergency vet visit.
As soon as you bring your new dog home, you need to start preparing him for the times when he will be leaving. Left alone, a dog’s anxiety levels can cause panic and trauma. In order for you and your dog to grow up together, you need to prepare yourself with the latest information and techniques on dog separation anxiety.