An Ounce of Prevention Puppy Proofing Your Yard, Garage and Shed

Your rottweiler puppy is home. You have diligently provided little Sammy with all the requirements of life. He has toys, treats, a food bowl, toys, water dishes, a leash, collars, IDs, toys, and all types of extra wonderful puppy things. You have done everything to make your rottweiler puppy happy. You have even puppy-proofed the house to ensure his safety. Yet, have you made sure the outside is a safe place for your little one to roam? Is your yard secure? What have you done in terms of the garden shed or the garage?

If you have a home with a yard, a garage and a shed or even a gazebo, you need to consider the potential hazards facing your rottweiler puppy. You need to go outside or into the shed or garage. You need to examine everything through a puppy’s eyes. After you have done so, you can then set about providing protective measures.

Yard

You need to look at the size of the objects in the yard. Is there anything there small enough to vanish into a puppy’s mouth? Can Sammy swallow it? If he does so, will it be painful and result in panicking, a hurried visit to the vet’s and an expensive operation? Remove any possible chewable and swallow able items.

Make a review of the fencing. Can Sammy escape? Is it solid? Does it represent a sticking threat. In other words, can Sammy put his head, or bottom, part way through, become stuck, and proceed to wreak havoc on his body and the fence?

Is Sammy a digger? Is this little ball of energy intent on discovering the route to China? This poses a problem if you have a garden. The serious issue is whether Sammy is going to dig his way under the fence. Cement clocking may be effective. Talk to a fence contractor. Many are familiar with the challenges digging dogs present.

In addition to the strength and durability of the actual fencing, look at the gate. Is there an escape hatch under it. While many fences may be secure and touch the ground, a gate may be ornamental, allowing a space between the ground and the bottom of the gate. No matter how miniscule the leeway is, your rottweiler puppy may be able to get under-and-out. This chance doubles, if the entryway is dirt and your puppy is a digger.

Another concern is the locking or closing mechanism. What kind of latch do you have? Is it puppy proof? Can your pet leap and knock it open? Can anyone walk by and release or take your pet? Make sure the latch is safe and secure.

In the yard, you also need to check out the types of plants you are growing. Many do not realize how toxic some innocent-looking and beautiful plants are. Gladiola plants, ivy, laurel, milkweed, the stems and leaves of tomatoes, the bulbs of daffodils and foxglove are all poisonous on various levels. If you have a pup who loves to try out everything, you need to consider fencing your garden off or replacing toxic plants with chewing friendly ones.

Shed

While in the garden, you should check the contents of the shed. Many lawn and garden chemicals are deadly. Fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, snail and slug control agents and other materials are toxic. Refrain form using, whenever possible. If you have containers, make sure you seal them tightly and place them out-of-reach. Dispose of them responsibly.
Once you have made sure your yard is safe, you and your rottweiler puppy can enjoy it. You can play, train and relax, knowing it is a safe and secure environment for you, your puppy and your family.

Content provided by Philip Plant of ohmydogsupplies.com, the top ranked place to buy retractable dog gates online.