Puppy-proofing your home and yard in Australia
Updated 2026-10-16. General information, not veterinary advice.
Ask your vet. This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. It does not diagnose or give doses. Your vet knows your dog and your area, so ask them about anything specific.
Puppies explore with their mouths. A few hours of preparation can prevent expensive and frightening emergencies.
If something goes wrong
Call your vet or the Australian Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 (animalpoisons.com.au) straight away if you think your puppy has eaten something toxic. Do not wait for symptoms.
Inside
- Food. The Animal Poisons Helpline lists chocolate, grapes, raisins and sultanas, and xylitol (a sweetener found in some foods and products) as common dangers. See also the Agriculture Victoria list of human foods to avoid. Keep food, bins and handbags out of reach.
- Medicines. Store out of reach. RSPCA Pet Insurance notes human medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be toxic to pets.
- Cleaning products and chemicals. Store in closed cupboards.
- Cords and small objects. Use cord covers and pick up socks, hair ties and children’s toys.
- Safe space. Set up a playpen or crate and a bed.
- Chewing. Offer safe chews and rotate toys.
Outside
- Check fences and gates for gaps and digging spots.
- Provide shade and water. See hot weather safety.
- Store garden chemicals, snail baits and fertiliser safely, and check plants with your vet if unsure.
- Supervise around pools and ponds.
- Ask your vet about ticks, snakes and cane toads in your area. See tick, heat and snake safety.
Teach as well as manage
Reward your puppy for choosing the right items and for coming when called (recall). Redirect, do not punish. Use gates and supervision first, as training takes time.
Related
New puppy checklist, first week and a first aid kit.
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- Baby gates: Block off rooms. Check the gap size for a small puppy.
- Lidded bins: Keep rubbish, compost and food out of reach.
- Cord covers: Reduce chewing hazards.
- Playpen: A safe area when you cannot supervise.
Check current price, size guides and availability with Australian pet retailers such as Petbarn, Pet Circle or Petstock.
FAQs
What human foods are toxic to dogs?
Agriculture Victoria lists foods to avoid, and the Animal Poisons Helpline names chocolate, grapes and sultanas, and xylitol among the common ones. If your dog eats any, call your vet or the helpline immediately.
Who do I call if my puppy eats something toxic?
Call your vet or the Australian Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738.
Should I puppy-proof the yard?
Yes. Check fences and gates, plants, compost, chemicals, pools and shade.
When should I puppy-proof?
Before your puppy comes home, and again as they grow and become more mobile.