How to create a safe space for your puppy

Pre-Arrival Puppy Essentials Checklist

Before your puppy arrives, it’s important to have all the basics ready so they feel comfortable and you can start off on the right paw.

• Crate – This will be your puppy’s safe, calm space for resting and training. Choose one that’s sturdy, well-ventilated, and big enough for your puppy to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.

• Safety gates or a playpen – These help limit access to certain areas and keep your puppy out of trouble while they learn the rules of the house.

• Toys for chewing, comfort, and stimulation – Have a mix of plush toys, chew toys, and puzzle toys to keep your pup’s mind and teeth busy. For example, a sensory toy like the Gloria Fried Potatoes Soft Toy can be great for enrichment.

• Food – Puppies need to eat small, frequent meals (generally three to four times per day). Make sure you have food suited to their age and breed.

• Food and water bowls – Non-slip bowls are best to avoid spills. If you want something functional and stylish, ceramic or glazed bowls can be a nice touch.

• Dog bed – Choose something cosy, easy to wash, and sized for a growing puppy. They may outgrow it quickly, so consider starting with an affordable but comfortable option.

• Grooming supplies – A soft brush, puppy-safe shampoo, and a gentle nail file will keep your puppy looking and feeling their best.

• Vet registration – Find a local veterinarian and register your puppy before they arrive. Book their first health check and vaccinations in advance.

• Microchip – Make sure your puppy is microchipped and that the contact details are up to date.

Puppy-Proofing Your Home: Safety Tips

Puppies are curious explorers, and they’ll try to chew, sniff, or paw at anything they can reach. A few preventative measures will make your home safer and your life a lot easier.

Electrical Hazards

• Lift or cover any wires and cables lying on the floor.

• Use cable organisers or hide cords behind furniture where your puppy can’t get to them.

Houseplants

• Move plants to high shelves or hang them out of reach.

• Check both your home and garden for plants that are toxic to dogs, such as lilies, foxglove, and ivy.

Sharp Corners and Edges

• Pad or remove furniture with sharp corners at puppy height.

• Pay special attention to areas at your puppy’s face level to prevent eye injuries.

Access Control

• Install safety gates or puppy doors to limit where they can roam.

• Block off stairs, balconies, and other unsafe areas with secure barriers.

• If you have a garden, inspect the fencing carefully to make sure there are no gaps or escape routes.

Kitchen Safety

• Always supervise your puppy when cooking.

• Keep hot pans, food scraps, and cleaning products well out of reach.

• Close the kitchen off entirely when it’s not safe for your puppy to be there.

Outdoor Care

• In warm weather, provide shade and fresh water at all times.

• Avoid hot surfaces like pavement or decking that could burn their paws.

When You Can’t Supervise
If you need to step away even for a short moment, place your puppy in their crate. It keeps them secure, prevents accidents, and provides a familiar place for rest. Crates are also a valuable tool for toilet training and helping your puppy develop independence.

Pro Tip
Get down on your hands and knees and view your home from your puppy’s eye level. You’ll spot plenty of temptations and hazards you might otherwise miss.

Creating a safe space is about prevention, awareness, and patience. With the right preparation, your puppy will feel secure and loved, and you’ll enjoy more peace of mind—plus all the tail wags that come with it.