Similar to when bringing a baby home, there are certain tasks that need to be performed before you can bring a puppy into your home. Otherwise, your puppy can get into a whole lot of trouble and end up injured. Essentially, the best thing that you can do is do a walk-through of your home and yard and see what your puppy would be able to eat, pull down, or climb up, and make sure to secure all of those things. While you may add to it, here is a basic puppy proofing list to get your started.

1. Electrical

All of your electrical outlets need to have safety covers because your puppy could be enticed to lick them, which could result in quite the "shock" for him. You may also want to consider covers for your wires, or at least a way to secure them, especially at times when there will be additional wiring in the home, such as at Christmas. Wires are particularly attractive to puppies, who like to chew.

2. Trash

With your trash cans, diaper pails, etc., you have one of two options: 1) you can hide them in a pantry or closet, or 2) you can purchase locking lids. At the same time, you will want to make sure that you pick up any loose trash before the puppy comes home and after the puppy arrives. Puppies like to get their teeth on anything and everything, and they will tear it up into a million pieces. It doesn't matter what it is – aluminum foil, paper, plastic, etc.

3. Medication

Make sure that all medication is put up high and secure. The lids may be childproof, but puppies can chew through those lids and get to what is inside, which will hurt them.

4. Cleaning Supplies

The same is true with cleaning supplies. Most cleaning products are toxic – some are even deadly, so it is important that these are behind cabinet doors. If possible, it may be a good idea to invest in cabinet locks, as puppies can get doors open if they try hard enough.

5. Yard Supplies

Puppies can't stay locked up inside the house forever, so make sure that you do a full yard sweep as well. Make sure that tools are picked up and secure, especially small ones that can be swallowed like nails and screws. If you happen to have any pesticides sitting outside the garage, make sure to put them inside and up on a shelf where they are out of reach.

As you can see, the aforementioned list is very similar to that of a baby proofing list. Anything that you would essentially keep away from a baby, you will want to keep away from a puppy. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to a veterinarian, such as at After Hours Veterinary Emergency Clinic Inc.