Bringing a new Havanese puppy into your home is an exciting time, but ensuring their safety should be a top priority. Puppies are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings, which means they can easily get into trouble if hazards aren’t addressed. This comprehensive checklist will help you inspect your home and yard to ensure your new puppy’s environment is secure and hazard-free.

Indoor Hazards

1. Electrical Cords and Outlets

• Tuck away loose electrical cords or cover them with protective tubing. Puppies may chew on cords, risking electrocution.
• Use outlet covers for unused sockets to prevent nosy noses or tongues from exploring.

2. Toxic Plants

• Remove or place plants like pothos, philodendrons, and lilies out of reach, as these can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or more serious poisoning if ingested.
• Consult the ASPCA’s list of toxic plants for a complete guide.

3. Cleaning Supplies and Medications

• Store cleaning agents, medications, and vitamins in secured cabinets or shelves beyond your puppy’s reach.
• Avoid leaving pills or detergent pods on countertops. Even small amounts can be fatal.

4. Small Objects

• Pick up small items like coins, buttons, rubber bands, and jewelry. These pose choking hazards or can cause blockages if swallowed.
• Pay attention to children’s toys that might be left on the floor, such as Legos or action figures.

5. Trash Cans

• Use trash cans with secure lids or store them in cabinets. Puppies are drawn to food scraps and can ingest harmful items like bones or coffee grounds.

6. Furniture Gaps and Falling Hazards

• Check for areas where your puppy could get trapped, like under furniture.
• Secure heavy items like bookshelves or TVs to the wall to prevent tipping.

7. Laundry and Closets

• Keep laundry hampers covered; socks and underwear are especially tempting for puppies.
• Avoid leaving open closet doors where shoes, bags, or other chewable items may be accessible.

Outdoor Hazards

1. Fencing and Gates

• Ensure your yard is fully enclosed with no gaps under fences or around gates that a small puppy could squeeze through.
• Repair broken slats or sharp edges that could injure your pet.

2. Toxic Plants and Mulches

• Remove or fence off toxic plants like azaleas, oleander, or foxglove.
• Avoid using cocoa mulch, which contains theobromine—a compound also found in chocolate—that is toxic to dogs.

3. Pesticides and Fertilizers

• Store lawn chemicals in a locked shed or garage. After applying fertilizers or pesticides, wait the recommended time before allowing your puppy to roam the yard.
• Avoid snail and rodent bait traps, which can be fatal if ingested.

4. Standing Water

• Check for puddles, birdbaths, or stagnant water that may harbor bacteria or parasites.
• Secure pool covers to prevent accidental drowning.

5. Gardening Tools and Sharp Objects

• Store tools like rakes, shovels, or pruners in a safe place.
• Avoid leaving sharp or pointed objects within easy reach.

Behavioral Hazards

1. Unsecured Food Items

• Puppies will sniff out and eat anything that smells good. Keep chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and other toxic foods out of reach.
• Invest in a puppy-proof container for storing kibble or treats.

2. Open Doors and Windows

• Use baby gates to block off areas of the house and prevent accidental escapes.
• Install window screens to avoid falls or escapes when windows are open.

3. Strings, Ribbons, and Cords

• Keep blinds and curtain cords tied up to prevent entanglement or strangulation.
• Avoid letting your puppy play with string, ribbons, or floss unattended, as these can cause dangerous internal blockages if swallowed.

Q&A Section

Q: When should I start puppy-proofing my home?
Start before bringing your puppy home to ensure their environment is safe upon arrival.

Q: How can I tell if a plant is toxic to my puppy?
Consult the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants or ask your veterinarian for guidance.

Q: What should I do if my puppy swallows a harmful item?
Contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline, such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, immediately.

Q: Is crate training a good way to keep my puppy safe?
Yes, crate training can prevent your puppy from accessing hazards when unsupervised, provided the crate is appropriately sized and comfortable.

Q: Can I use household cleaners around my puppy?
Use pet-safe cleaners whenever possible, and always rinse thoroughly to avoid residue that could harm your pet.

Summary

Preparing your home for a Havanese puppy requires thoughtful attention to potential hazards both indoors and outdoors. From electrical cords and toxic plants to garden pesticides and standing water, removing risks ensures your puppy stays safe while exploring their new environment. This safety checklist is an essential step toward creating a secure and loving home for your new companion.

Sources

1. ASPCA: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants
   https://www.aspca.org
2. American Kennel Club: Puppy-Proofing Checklist
   https://www.akc.org
3. Veterinary Partner: Puppy Safety Tips
   https://veterinarypartner.vin.com
4. PetMD: Poisonous Household Hazards
   https://www.petmd.com
5. American Veterinary Medical Association: Protecting Pets from Hazards
   https://www.avma.org
6. Humane Society: Creating a Safe Home for Puppies
   https://www.humanesociety.org

View the complete list of our research and reference sources.
https://thecompletehavanese.com/research