A dog-friendly home is one where the dog feels comfortable, safe, and where their needs are considered. Here are 10 tips to keep in mind if you want to create a dog-friendly home:
- Safe Zone for the Dog: Assign a specific area where the dog can rest and relax peacefully. This could be a dog bed in a quiet corner where the dog feels secure.
- Accessible Food and Water Bowls: The dog’s feeding bowls should be easily accessible and placed so that the dog cannot accidentally knock them over. The bowls could also have non-slip bottoms or be placed in a special holder. Additionally, the area around the feeding bowls should be easy to clean.
- Non-slip Flooring: Choose a floor covering that is not too slippery, as dogs can slip and get injured on slick floors. Carpets or floor mats can help reduce slipping. Slippery floors are very harmful to a dog’s joints.
- Easy-to-Clean Surfaces: Dogs can bring mud, fur, and other dirt into the home. Choose materials that are easy to clean, such as washable furniture covers and stain-resistant walls.
- Dog-Friendly Furniture: Choose furniture with durable and easily cleanable covers. If you allow the dog on the furniture, choose fabrics that can withstand dog claws and fur.
- Safe Home for the Dog: Remove all potentially dangerous items from the dog’s reach, such as electrical wires, small items that they could swallow, toxins, and other hazards.
- Entertainment Options: Provide the dog with various toys and activities to prevent them from causing trouble out of boredom. A dog-friendly home has enough space for playing and exploring.
- Appropriate Exit Opportunities: Ensuring easy access to the outdoors (such as dog doors) helps prevent indoor accidents and allows the dog to go outside when necessary.
- Secure Yard: If you have an outdoor area, it should be properly fenced and secure to prevent the dog from escaping. The fence should be high and strong enough that the dog cannot jump over or dig under it.
- Proper Ventilation and Temperature Control: Ensure that the home is well-ventilated and the temperature is suitable for the dog. Dogs can easily overheat or become too cold, so a controlled climate is important.
Following these guidelines will help you create an environment where the dog feels good and their needs are considered.
