New puppy guide · 02
Puppy-proof your yard
Your yard is an exciting new world. Preparing it gives your puppy a safer place to play, learn, and take potty breaks.
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Use this checklist to walk through your outdoor space before your puppy begins exploring it.
- Fence the yard if possible. The fence should be high enough to prevent jumping and free of holes a puppy could crawl through.
- Remove toxic plants so your puppy does not mistake them for a snack.
- Fence in-ground pools. A barrier helps prevent accidental falls; you or a qualified trainer can also teach pool safety.
- Designate a puppy area for bathroom breaks.
- Keep lawn and brush trimmed. Ticks are more likely to hide in tall grass.
- Keep your puppy out of a yard recently treated with fertilizer, pesticides, or insecticides. Avoid insecticides when possible because the chemicals can be harmful.
- Be mindful of heat. Avoid leaving your dog outside in hot weather, and always provide shade and cool water.
- Clean up after your puppy so they are not tempted to eat feces.
- Supervise young puppies outdoors. This is the time to play and train together while protecting them from predators, heatstroke, and other hazards.