How to Puppy-Proof Your House, Especially the Bathroom

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time, but it also comes with some important preparations to ensure your furry friend stays safe. Puppies are naturally curious and love to explore, which means your home—especially areas like the bathroom—can be full of hazards. From slippery floors to toxic cleaning products, the bathroom requires some extra attention when puppy-proofing.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through simple steps to create a safe and secure bathroom environment for your puppy, so they can explore without risk while you enjoy peace of mind.

The Toilet

Puppies are curious little explorers, and the toilet can seem like a fun place to investigate. To keep them safe, it’s a good idea to keep the lid down so they aren’t tempted to drink from it. You might even want to use a toilet lock for extra peace of mind.

Also, be sure to store any cleaning products well out of reach, as puppies can be drawn to the smell and could get into something dangerous. A few simple steps can help keep your pup safe and your bathroom worry-free!

Storage

Puppies love to get into everything, so make sure all your toiletries, medications, and cleaning products are stored well out of reach. Childproof locks on cabinets or using high shelves can help keep things like razors, shampoo, and cleaners safely tucked away. Even things like toilet paper can become an irresistible toy for a curious puppy, so it’s a good idea to store those away too.

Hair Accessories

Things like hair ties, clips, and bobby pins can be super tempting for puppies to chew on or swallow, which could lead to choking or stomach issues. To keep your pup safe (and to stop losing all your hair ties!), make sure to store them in a drawer or a closed container where your puppy can’t reach.

Wood

Puppies love to chew, and wood can be particularly appealing to them, whether it’s cabinets, baseboards, or wooden accents. To prevent your pup from damaging these surfaces—and to keep them safe from potential splinters or ingesting wood—you can apply a pet-safe deterrent spray that makes the wood less appealing to chew. You might also want to block access to certain areas or provide plenty of chew toys to distract your puppy.

Bath Mats

Bath mats can pose more challenges than you’d think. Puppies are often drawn to the soft texture and might chew or play with them, but they can also see the mat as a tempting spot to relieve themselves, especially if they’re still being toilet trained. To prevent this, use non-slip mats that are harder for your puppy to move, or pick them up when not in use to remove the temptation. Choose durable, machine-washable materials if you are planning on leaving a mat on the floor, as accidents can happen.

Garbage Bin

Puppies are naturally curious, and a bathroom garbage bin filled with tissues, cotton swabs, and other tempting items can quickly turn into a treasure trove for them. To keep your pup safe, opt for a garbage can with a secure lid or a step pedal to prevent them from rummaging through it. Make sure the bin is sturdy and difficult to tip over, as puppies can be persistent when trying to get into things. Keeping bathroom trash out of reach not only prevents messes but also protects your puppy from ingesting harmful items.

Electrical Cords

Puppies may be tempted to chew on cords, which can pose serious safety risks, including electrical shock or injury. To protect your pup, make sure to unplug any electrical appliances when not in use, and try to keep cords tucked away and out of sight, using cord covers or clips to secure them against walls or furniture. If possible, rearrange your bathroom layout to minimise cord exposure or consider using wireless devices when you can.

Toilet Paper

Toilet paper can be a magnet for curious pups! Its soft texture and the way it unrolls can turn a simple roll into a fun toy, leading to all kinds of messes and even potential swallowing hazards. To keep your bathroom tidy and your furry friend safe, it’s a good idea to store the toilet paper out of their reach, like in a cabinet or on a high shelf. If your pup is especially mischievous, you might want to look into a toilet paper holder with a cover or one that makes it harder to unroll.

Clothes Hamper

Puppies are often drawn to the scents of dirty laundry, making it an enticing target for chewing or rummaging. To avoid any messes or accidents, it’s a good idea to keep the hamper closed tight or even invest in one with a lid. If your hamper is easy to tip over, you might want to stash it in a cabinet or up high where your pup can’t reach it. Also, be sure to keep any small bits of fabric or lint away from your curious friend, as these can be a choking hazard.