It will soon be time to say hello to a new member of your family, and you are beyond excited to get a dog. You envision a montage of you both loving each other straight away, with no teething problems whatsoever, and hope that that will be your reality.The likelihood is it will not be.
If you do have a brand-new pup on the way to your home, you are definitely going to want to dog-proof it for many reasons. This piece will tell you what you need to do!
Clean Up
It might be obvious, but the first step you should take to preparing your home for a dog is to clean it up. You are going to find the home’s level of cleanliness will change throughout the puppy’s development, and it is best to make sure everyone is able to clear up any accidents with ease.
There is also the very real truth of your new dog trying to chew anything and everything they can get their little teeth on! So, making sure everything is put away, tidy, and ready for your new guest will make your life much easier.
Also Read: Steps to Teach Your Dog to Walk on a Leash
Dog-Proof Everything
Much like when you have to baby-proof your house with gates, plug socket covers, locks, and make sure everything is completely out of the way, doing the same procedure for a dog is essential.
Anything that can be harmful to your new furry friend needs to go or be put in a safe place where your pup will not be able to reach it!
This can be anything from house plants that could be poisonous, standard household cleaners that can be toxic to animals, any pills such as painkillers or prescription tablets lying around, and anything you do not want to be chewed up. This could include your favorite pair of shoes or sweater.
Make sure to go around your house with this thought process in each room, even the ones you do not plan on letting your dog in, and make sure everything is safe and tidy, ready for their arrival.
If you do find that your dog gets into something it should not have, call your vet immediately for expert help and advice. Clinics such as easyvet.com are a great, trustworthy, and affordable option.
Their Essentials
You want your puppy to feel as at home as possible when they arrive, and it will take some time to adjust. Allow them to settle for 24 hours and get used to their surroundings. There will be new smells, tastes, and sounds, and sometimes this can be overwhelming.
You will also want to have on hand everything they need to get settled in well. This will include high-quality nutritional food, along with food and water bowls, a designated area that is their own with a bed, toys and other enrichment, and a blanket that smells like you. Do not forget to purchase pet insurance either!
There you have it: how to prepare your home for a dog.
