Puppy Proofing
Electrical Cords
No matter how uninterested your puppy may seem in them now, be sure to get them out of view and access of your puppy. They can easily strike a sudden interest in them when you are not looking-which could be very tragic. Make sure your outlets are not accessible at all-place something (furniture, etc.) in front of them so the puppy cannot get near them. Also make sure that the cords are not accessible. Either tape them up so the puppy cannot get to them, or totally block it off so the pup won't have access.
Phone Cords
Phone cords can be just as hazardous as electrical cords. Make sure they are out of reach (and sight) of your puppy.
Shoes
No matter how uninterested your puppy seems in shoes or socks ... keep them out of access. Sudden interest can arise and you will regret it. Not only will they demolish your favorite shoes, but if they swallow any pieces they could get an intestinal blockage and die. Take no chances here-it HAS happened to many puppies.
Tissue
This is another big fascination with puppies (and young dogs). They love to yank out the Kleenex one by one and shred them until there is no more-and the tiny pieces of paper will be from one end of your house to another. The massive amounts of paper can also cause a blockage as well. You should also keep magazines, TV Guides, etc., out of reach ... they're all good shredding material for a curious young pup.
Plants
Some household plants are harmless, but young puppies will love to dig in them if they have the chance-keep the plants up! Below there is a list of toxic plants that you should have a look at. If you have any plants that are listed, please be sure they are not accessible to your pets.
Cigarettes
If you smoke, empty the ashtray often and keep them out of reach. Also be sure to keep your pack of cigarettes up high so the pup cannot get to them. Ingesting these items can be fatal.
Christmas Trees
Oh the fun a puppy can have at Christmas time! Make sure all ornaments and lights are far out of reach to the puppy, and I don't suggest keeping presents under the tree while your pup is young. I don't suggest making any "popcorn decorations" for the Christmas tree no matter how old your dog is-it's still popcorn, and the dog will do anything to get to it. Popcorn isn't bad for the dog, but the thread that is used to make the decorations could be harmful.
Garbage
Garbage cans are like a bucket of toys to a young puppy. Be sure to keep the lids closed tightly and bathroom doors closed at all times since most bathroom trash cans do not have lids.
Vacuuming
I suggest that you vacuum often-just to make sure that there aren't any tiny objects that your puppy can (and will) find that he could eat.
Toys
Dogs need a lot of toys, but if those toys become torn or damaged in any way, please throw them away as soon as you notice it. It's best to inspect the toys on a regular basis and make sure there isn't any severe damage. Fabric toys that are ripped should be disposed of-the stuffing inside can cause an intestinal blockage if ingested.
Counter Tops
If you have a large breed puppy, you should also consider the fact that there will come a time when he will be able to get his front paws up on the counters and nibble on anything you have on them. Keep everything very far back and out of reach of your dog if he has ever shown signs of curiosity toward your countertops or kitchen table.