We love our pets unconditionally. So why not introduce a few dog-friendly measures in your home? Here are some ways to turn your home environment from hapless to happy.
Which flooring is best?
With dogs running through your house on a regular basis, the rule of flooring is the harder the better. Tiles are virtually scratch proof and it also provides a cool place for your dog to nap during hot weather. Carpeting is generally something you want to avoid. It harbors host bacteria and hair. It can be a major contributor to human allergy issues within the home, too. Wood or stone flooring is a good choice. Meanwhile, ensure that your floor remains in good condition by regularly keeping your dogs nails trimmed.
White, a no-no?
If you have a dog in your home, avoid upholstering in light colours and delicate fabric. Leather is a good choice because it is hardy, does not absorb odour, and can easily be wiped clean.
Keep treasured items out of reach
Store all fragile, breakable items behind closed doors. Dogs are often excitable animals, and will play with just about anything.
Invest in a good vacuum cleaner
If you own a shedding breed that needs it’s fair share of dog grooming, you will understand the need for vacuuming at least twice a week. Brushing your pet (probably outdoors) on a regular basis will help cut down on the amount of dead hair that ends up stuck on your carpets and furniture.
Keep it down
Switch to a non-toxic cleanser, and close the toilet lid after each use, as some dogs can be fond of drinking from the toilet
Are your kitchen doors dog safe?
In a lot of homes, household products with chemicals, such as bleach or kitchen cleaner, live in the kitchen. And not just these, some foods we don’t think twice about leaving in easily accessible cupboards or on kitchen counters pose a risk to dogs, too.
When a home is child and dog free, it’s not really an issue. But for inquisitive dogs, these things all have potentially serious consequences if they can access.
A lot of these potential dangers are things your pet will probably ignore, but some—such as food, will always gather interest. Whether it’s up high or behind a secure cupboard door, all food should be kept out of your pet’s reach.
So consider fitting child locks or moving the products to a higher cupboard, out of sight and out of a nosey dog’s nose.
Are there any small items that dogs may be tempted to chew?
This sounds like a fairly broad consideration, but what you’re really looking to avoid is something that may be within a dog’s reach, in any room that your dog may have access to, and is small enough to be chewed (and could be toxic) or swallowed (and cause a blockage, which could be fatal).
Are your windows and doors safe?
Dogs have been known to escape through ground and first-floor windows, so if your dog shows signs of being overly curious towards your windows or you think a window has a weak spot, consider buying a locking system.
Typically, locking systems allow a window to be partially open and locked at the same time, which means you can have the window open a little to allow some fresh air in, but not wide enough that your dog can fit through. The locking system will also prevent your dog from being able to nudge open.
Are your electrical wires concealed?
If you’re bringing a puppy into your home, or your dog develops a habit of chewing, then electrical items and their wires should be at the top of your ‘let’s move this’ list.
The damage caused by gnawing through to the inside wiring of these cords can cause a mild shock, third-degree burns, or worse. Try to move all electrical objects and loose wires out of reach, and conceal floor height wires beneath carpets where possible.