Checklist for Puppy-Proofing Indoors

Unplug electrical cords, move them out of reach, or string them through cord concealers. These chewing hazards can cause burns to the mouth or electrical shock.

Avoid feeding food from the table. Pups may look adorable as they beg for food, but many human foods are not good for them. Pay special attention to sugarless gum, chocolate, raisins, and other foods that are especially poisonous to dogs.

Keep cleaning supplies in high cabinets or secured behind doors with childproof latches. When using them, make sure that the puppy is kept out of the area, so he won’t be affected by the vapors given off by chemicals.

Put all medications away. Avoid keeping medications, even in pill bottles or dispensers, on low tables, bathroom counters, or night tables, where the puppy can easily get to them.

Keep toilet lids closed, so the puppy won’t drink out of the toilet or fall in.

Keep doors and windows closed at all times, so the puppy can’t escape or fall out, and secure the cords that raise blinds, so they won’t get caught around the puppy’s neck.

Put away small items that are choking hazards — such as coins, paper clips, rubber bands, and jewelry — to prevent the puppy from choking on them.

Keep all sharp objects out of your dog’s reach. This includes knives, scissors, razors, and tools.

Secure trashcans. Puppies are attracted to the smells coming from garbage, which can upset their tummies or even be poisonous.

Move poisonous houseplants, so the puppy can’t eat them.

Checklist for Puppy-Proofing Outdoors

When you take your puppy outside, you need to take precautions there, too. Your backyard is going to be your puppy’s playground (and bathroom), so it’s important that it is also clear of all hazards.

Fence the yard, if possible. It’s best to have a fence that is high enough to prevent the puppy from jumping over it, with no holes to crawl through.

Remove toxic plants in your yard to prevent your pup from mistaking them for a snack.

Put a fence around in-ground pools. Pools are a big hazard for puppies. A fence surrounding the pool will prevent the puppy from accidentally falling in. You or a dog trainer can teach your pup pool safety, as well.

Designate a puppy area. Set aside a portion of the yard for the puppy to use as his bathroom area.

Keep the lawn trimmed and brush under control. Ticks are more likely to hide in tall grasses and latch onto your pup.

Keep your dog away from the yard if it has recently been treated with fertilizers, pesticides, or insecticides. Try to avoid using insecticides because the chemicals can be very harmful to your puppy.

Be wary of heat. Avoid keeping your dog outside when it is hot, and always have shade and cool water available

Clean up after your puppy to be sure he won’t try to eat his own feces.