6 Tips for Puppy-Proofing Your Home

(RE/MAX Blog) - Preparing to bring home a furry bundle of wagging joy? Keep your puppy (and belongings) safe by following these tips.

1. Harvest your plants

Puppies are known to nibble indiscriminately – make sure they don't munch on a toxic houseplant! Find out which of your plants are dangerous (azalea, philodendron and jade are a few) and either hang them high or make a neighbor's day with a gift of green.

2. Hide your cords

Everything can look like a chew toy to pups, and electrical cords are no exception. If you can't tuck them safely out of sight, try feeding cords through PVC tubing. Cords hanging from drapes and blinds also can be tempting to puppies. Tie them up out of reach.

3. Stash your trash

Items such as Q-tips and twisty ties can cause serious damage if your puppy consumes them. Chicken bones can be ever-so-enticing – and highly dangerous – to dogs. If you have under-counter storage space that can accommodate your trash can, use it. Otherwise, be sure to use a sturdy trash can with a locking lid.

4. Secure your snacks

Avoid the temptation to slip your dog table scraps. Lots of common foods, like onions and grapes, are poisonous to dogs. Foods stored in plastic bags are also dangerous, as puppies could suffocate on the plastic. Stash them on high shelves, or in pantries and cabinets.

5. Mind your pocketbook

Hang a hook or clear some space in a closet where you can place your purse as soon as you walk through the front door. You'd be amazed how quickly a pup can pilfer pills, sharp objects, pens (that could leak all over your carpet), makeup and other dangerous items from your bag.

6. Store cleaners

Make sure all household cleaning agents, like laundry detergent, pods, bleach and furniture polish, are stowed safe from the puppy in a cabinet that either locks or has a child-proof latch.