Making Your Home Safe for a New Dog: A Room-by-Room Guide

ringing a new dog home—whether a tiny puppy or a rescued adult—is a moment of joy and excitement. But before those happy tail wags begin, there’s one important step every pet parent should take: dog-proofing your home.

Dogs are curious by nature. They sniff, chew, climb, and explore with enthusiasm—and sometimes, that can lead to accidents or messes. That’s why it’s essential to prepare each area of your home in advance.

Here’s a room-by-room guide to help you create a safe, welcoming environment for your new four-legged family member.

🛋️ Living Room: Safe, Soft, and Chew-Proof

The living room is often where your dog will spend most of their time lounging, playing, and bonding with you.

Checklist:

• Hide electrical cords behind furniture or secure them with cord protectors.

• Tuck away remote controls, glasses, or small items that can be mistaken for chew toys.

• Block off fireplaces or sharp-edged furniture with barriers or corner protectors.

• Create a cozy spot with a soft blanket or a dog bed. Place it away from foot traffic.

• Add a Bella & Pal toy or chew to keep their mouths occupied (and your furniture safe).

Bonus Tip: Use a pet-safe cleaning spray for your floors—puppies love licking surfaces!

🍽️ Kitchen: Watch Out for Temptations

The kitchen is full of interesting smells, but it’s also full of dangers.

Checklist:

• Install childproof latches on lower cabinets to block access to cleaning supplies or food.

• Store human snacks like chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol-sweetened items out of reach.

• Never leave trash bins open—invest in a covered or hidden trash can.

• Avoid leaving hot items or sharp tools near the edge of counters.

• Use a baby gate to keep your dog out of the kitchen when you’re cooking.

🛏️ Bedroom: Comfort and Calm

Dogs love curling up in quiet spaces—your bedroom may become their favorite retreat.

Checklist:

• Keep shoes, socks, and jewelry off the floor—these can be choking hazards.

• Secure or hide phone chargers and lamp cords.

• Create a comfy zone with a crate or playpen, especially during early training days.

• Place a Bella & Pal washable diaper on younger pups who aren’t yet house-trained.

Bonus: Keep your room calm and scent-neutral so your dog feels safe and at ease.

🛁 Bathroom: Small Room, Big Risks

It might seem harmless, but bathrooms can be risky for dogs.

Checklist:

• Keep the toilet lid down—some dogs are tempted to drink from it.

• Store medications, razors, and soaps in closed cabinets.

• Place trash bins under the sink or use pet-proof lids.

• Avoid scented or chemical-heavy air fresheners, which can irritate a dog’s nose.

• Use a non-slip mat if your dog follows you in for a bath or paw-washing.

🚪 Hallways & Stairs: Mind the Gaps

Hallways may not seem like high-risk zones, but they can pose issues for curious dogs—especially puppies.

Checklist:

• Use baby gates at the top and bottom of stairs to prevent falls.

• Secure rugs to prevent slipping.

• Block off any small spaces where a dog could get stuck (under shelves, behind doors).

• Watch for dropped items like coins, batteries, or pins.

🌳 Yard or Balcony: Outdoor Safety Matters Too

If you have a yard or balcony, it's a great way for your dog to explore the outdoors—safely.

Checklist:

• Check fencing for gaps or escape routes.

• Remove toxic plants like lilies, azaleas, or mushrooms.

• Avoid using pesticides or chemical treatments where your dog plays.

• For balconies, make sure rails are secure and too narrow for your dog to squeeze through.

• Set up a shaded area with water for warm weather.

• If potty training, try Bella & Pal’s washable diapers for indoor/outdoor transitions.

🧸 Pro Tip: Puppy Prep Kit

Before your new dog comes home, prep a few essentials:

• Washable dog diapers – perfect for early training and accident prevention

• Chew toys – to redirect teething or chewing

• Training pads – for designated potty spots

• Collar or ID tag – for safety

• Dog blanket or bed – to help them feel secure in their new space

Making your home safe for a dog is all about thinking like they do—if it smells interesting, they’ll investigate. If it’s small, they’ll probably try to chew it. And if there’s an open door? Expect them to dash through it.

With a little prep and the right Bella & Pal gear, you can focus less on worry and more on enjoying every cuddly, curious moment.

Welcome home, pup—you’re safe here.