Dogs, especially puppies, can be curious creatures, which means they’ll probably want to explore and chew (everything!).
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Hide hazards: Move toxic cleaning supplies, medications, and dangerous foods (like chocolate, grapes, and onions) out of reach.
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Cover those cords: Electrical cords can look like tempting chew toys, so tuck them away or get protective covers.
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Secure your bins: Dogs have a knack for sniffing out the rubbish bin, so make sure it’s dog-proof or out of reach to avoid a trashy mess.
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Watch out for plants: Some indoor and garden plants, like lilies and tulips, can be harmful to dogs, so double-check your greenery is dog friendly.
Protect your furniture
If you’ve got a nice sofa, you might want to invest in some washable covers before your new dog arrives! Whether it’s muddy paws, fur, or a surprise chewing session, your furniture will likely take a bit of a hit. Dog-proofing with washable, durable covers will save you from having a heart attack every time they jump up for a cuddle!
Buy supplies ahead of time
Before your new pooch sets foot (or paw) in your home, make sure you’ve got all the essentials:
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Collar and ID tags: Personalise them with your contact info in case your new buddy gets lost.
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Lead: For all those exciting new walks and adventures!
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Food and water bowls: Sturdy, chew-proof bowls are the way to go.
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Toys: Keep them entertained with a variety of toys – soft toys, chew toys, and puzzle toys will all help to stimulate their mind and stop them chewing your shoes!
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Bedding: A comfy bed is a must for your dog’s naps (they'll have lots).
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Puppy pads: If you’re bringing home a puppy, these will be your best friend during house training.
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Crate: Especially useful for puppies and for giving rescue dogs a safe den.
Give them their own space
Just like us humans, dogs love a bit of personal space! Create a little nook that’s just for them. Whether it’s a crate, cosy dog bed, or even a special corner of the living room, having their own area gives them a safe and comfy spot to retreat to when they need to rest or just have some ‘me-time’. Add some soft bedding, cuddly toys, and blankets to make it extra welcoming
Keep their bed far enough away from the action to avoid overstimulation but not so far they feel left out!
Doggify your backyard
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Your new buddy will love to romp around outside, so make sure your backyard is up to scratch. Make sure your fence is secure (puppies are sneaky little escape artists), and check that there aren’t any toxic plants lurking in the garden
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If you’ve got a rescue dog who might have a history of being outside a lot, make sure the yard feels safe and welcoming, with no scary gaps in the fence.
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If you are welcoming a puppy, you may also want to designate a special toilet area, especially during toilet training.
Good luck!