Should I Doodle-Proof My Home?

Bringing home a new Doodle puppy is basically the best. Those sweet eyes, playful paws, and tail wags full of personality will melt your heart from day one. But before you welcome your fluffy bundle of joy, it’s important to get your home ready for their curious, energetic, and sometimes mischievous nature. Doodles are smart, playful, and love exploring, so taking a little time to doodle-proof your home can make all the difference. It might sound silly and like something that only applies to toddlers, but dogs need safety precautions, too!

Let’s walk through your home, room by room, and talk about the simple (but often overlooked) ways to keep your puppy safe, and your space stress-free.

Living Room: This is likely where your family gathers most, and it’s where your pup will want to be too; they love to be around their people. Start by tucking away electrical cords or using cord protectors, because they love to chew, and cords can be tempting. Move plants up and out of reach, especially ones that may be toxic to dogs like pothos, philodendrons, or sago palms. And if you have decorative baskets, candles, or anything on a low shelf, consider giving those a temporary home up a bit higher. A curious nose or wagging tail can easily knock them over.

Kitchen: Puppies can be very food motivated, so it’s best to secure your trash with a lidded can or keep it behind a cabinet door. Be mindful of snacks, cleaning products, and plastic bags that could be within reach. Childproof latches on lower cabinets can be a great help. Also, if you have bar stools or chairs, be sure they’re stable, since a wiggly Doodle might turn them into a climbing adventure.

Bedrooms: Shoes, laundry, and cords tend to collect in bedrooms, so it’s best to keep floors clear and closets closed. If you plan to crate your puppy in your bedroom (feel free to ask us questions about what’s best for your pup), make sure there’s a safe, quiet corner for their crate, away from air vents or heaters. And keep small items like jewelry, socks, or chargers up high, anything that smells like you might get a good nibble!

Bathroom: Surprisingly, bathrooms often have hidden hazards like medications, razors, or bath products under the sink. Use cabinet locks or move items up high. Make a habit of keeping the toilet lid closed, some pups are drawn to it like a water bowl. And hang up bath towels, especially if your pup is still in the teething stage and loves to tug.

Yard or Patio: Double-check fencing for gaps or loose boards. Make sure there are no garden chemicals or sharp tools left out, and be mindful of plants that may not be dog-friendly. If you have a pool, set up a secure barrier until your pup learns boundaries around water.

Getting your home ready before your Doodle arrives means you’ll spend less time chasing after chewed-up slippers and more time snuggling your new best friend. It’s all about creating a space that’s safe, calm, and ready for puppy energy! Thinking about welcoming a Doodle into your family? We’d love to chat with you about upcoming litters and how we help each of our beloved puppies transition from our home to yours.