What does "puppy proofing" mean? In short, to puppy proof your home means to make sure nothing dangerous is in reach, creating a safe environment for your dog. Prevention can be the difference between a happy pet owner or home destruction, inside or outside.

1. Set up indoor boundries. This may include a designated room such as the kitchen where the flooring is easily cleaned until the young pup is house trained/potty trained. Purchase a baby/pet gate(s). Invest in a dog crate for training made easier with temporary confinement. Best not to leave a new puppy alone in an enclosed area too long for numerous reasons, behavior trauma being one of them.
2. Look around your decided upon location from a canine point of view. Chemicals. Trash. Choking objects: anything small. Hmm. Storage containers filled with misc. makes for a perfect boredom buster. What looks yummy to teethe upon? Furniture, perhaps? Check for exposed wires from lighting or appliances. We've all seen the TV commercials of dogs opening doors, you may want to install a few cabinet door locks. Have any flowers/plants setting around?
3. Outdoor Safety. One of the 1st dog supplies to have in your hand is a collar and leash, outdoor safety is a perfect reason why. It's a whole new world outside your puppy proofed home and that lil' sniffer will seek out what you didn't think could be found. Chaining a dog to anything is a strangling hazard. Consider a dog run kennel, a traditional fence or invisible electric fence. If you choose fencing, scope out daily what could be in a harm's way. Be mindful of garage supplies and chemicals. Seal or lift storage containers. Check for toxic flowers in the garden. Are there other critters in close proximity? Respect neighbor's yards and stay out of them, you do have a leash, remember?

OLDER DOG proofing or when your puppy matures and you begin to trust, know this:

• Indoors. Keep bedrooms spotless or doors closed. Think of the treasures left behind on bureaus or night stands. Toys/stuffed animals appear all the same no matter whom they belong to. Removable sofa pillows are stuffings waiting to be destuffed. Food within striking distance will continue to be snatched until manners are instilled. Laundry baskets are vunerable and yes, socks can also be a choking hazard.

• Outdoors. Think you can trust your beloved pet over animal instinct? If you allow your dog off leash the puppy proofing still applies.

Want some helpful puppy proofing advice? Boredom prevention goes a long way to avoid doggie destruction done on purpose. Allow for a consistant routine of playtime/exercise/attention, relaxed quiet time, safe chew toys, a healthy food schedule, dependable outs to take care of business.

TIP: In case of emergency, have poison control information near the phone as well as your favorite veterinarian's phone number.

Visit www.fordogowners.com/DogGates.html for dog gate privacy and more puppy proofing supplies.