Household Dog Hazards: 10 Common Home Hazards You Need To Know

Did you know that dogs have the mental ability of a 2 to 2.5 years old child?

It’s true. Although some dogs can grow really big and smart enough to be trained, they’ll always have the mentality of a toddler, which means they’re curious, playful, and, sadly, the muse of hazards waiting to happen.

You might argue that your dogs would be safe since they only stay at home. But, dear, you got it all wrong. Our home may not be as dangerous as the streets, but it still contains hazards significant enough to put your furbaby’s life in danger. There’s a reason we still need dog harnesses and playpens at home.

Fortunately, these hazards are very much preventable if you’re just keen enough to detect them before your dog does. Acquaint yourself with these 10 common household dog hazards, and you’ll never have to use your pet insurance for a dog accident at home.

Cords and Cables

It’s no secret that dogs like to chew, especially the younger ones who are still teething. This habit seems cute until your dog gets electrocuted from chewing cords and cables. This may burn their mouth and hair and damage tissues in their lungs and heart.

You wouldn’t want that, right? Hence, make sure to organise your electrical cords and keep them from your dog’s reach and view.

Toxic Objects

Another problem with dogs’ incessant and mindless chewing is the possibility of swallowing toxic objects like pennies made of zinc and copper and batteries, which could cause heavy metal poisoning.

Household Chemicals

Sniff and Lick!

Dogs ‘see’ the world with their nose and tongue. They can pick up scents from afar or taste weird stuff which could make them all excited and curious. Unfortunately, these could also get them in trouble. After all, the house is usually filled with toxic chemicals like insecticides, antifreeze, bleach, and many more.

You might think they’re safe from these chemicals since they are capped and sealed. But, unlike children, dogs could actually bite the containers and successfully extract their contents. Thus, it’ll be best to store household chemicals away from your pup’s reach.

Toilets

Believe it or not, pets can be trapped in toilets. Their curiosity and playfulness lead them to the weirdest places. So, as an understanding hooman, just make sure to close your toilet’s lid to prevent such unwanted situations.

Additionally, you should always make it a habit to immediately dispose of your dog's poop. Leaving it unattended may lead to possible hygiene dangers.

Laundry Equipment

Apart from toilets, dogs are also weirdly drawn to washing machines and dryers. They get trapped inside since it's often difficult to escape once you're inside. So, just like toilets, make sure they're covered.

Toxic Food

What may be yummy for us can harm our pet’s tummy. Some of these are chocolates, onions, and grapes. We know it pains you to see your dog drool over this forbidden food, but it’ll be best to keep them away from our loyal buddies. Besides, you could always give them treats they could safely enjoy.

Windows and Balconies

Dogs love running around without much regard of their surroundings, even if it’s into the unknown or feet below your windows and balconies. Hence, it’s up to you to pull out all the stops. Screen your windows, and don’t leave your pets in balconies unattended.

Fire

We know that fire is dangerous for humans, how much more for our dogs, who wouldn't have the faintest idea how to use a fire extinguisher. Hence, it'll be best to keep our dogs from flammable objects.

Toxic Flowers & Plants

Flowers are pretty, but some can be pretty deadly. They won't be very forgiving on your scent-loving dogs, so make sure to keep them somewhere your dogs can't sniff around.

Fencing

We put up fences to protect our dogs from the outside. But, sometimes, these trusty structures could also be dangerous for dogs when their dog collar or dog harness gets entangled with them.

Final Thoughts

Dogs are curious and playful in nature. There’s always a chance they'll sniff their way to something dangerous. Hence, we'll have to watch out for these hazards at all times or train our furbabies to distinguish what’s safe and not using treats.

Although it’ll take a long time and effort to inculcate discipline in our dogs or pet-proof our homes, it'll all be worth it to keep our furry buddy safe.