13 Things You Don’t Need in Your Home If You’re a Dog Lover

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For dog lovers, your furry friend is not just a pet, they’re family. However, when you share your home with a dog, there are some changes you’ll have to make, not only to keep your pup safe and happy, but also to protect your home and belongings from undue wear and tear. Throwing out some of those items is sometimes the best way to do this.

Let’s face it: dogs can be curious, energetic, and even downright clumsy. There are some household items that you might think are harmless, but they can quickly become hazards for your pup (or very expensive headaches for you). Here are the things better left out of a dog lover’s home.

Fragile Decorations

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Glass sculptures or any other delicate vases or chimeras (whatever is sitting on any table in a place with small dogs running around etc) are accidents waiting to happen. Big dogs, or puppies, love knocking stuff over with a wag of their tail. Swapping breakable items for sturdier décor is best, as it won’t shatter at the first tumble.

Open Trash Cans

Dogs are natural scavengers, an open trash can is like treasure, so keep those lids closed. This not only creates a giant mess, but it’s also dangerous. If you have chicken bones, wrappers, or spoiled food in your house and your pup gets ahold of it, it can be harmful. A lidded, dog proof trash can is much safer.

Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

It’s cozy to have carpeting, but carpeting can’t compete with dog claws, muddy paws and shedding fur. It can trap odors and stains that are almost impossible to remove over time. Hardwood or tile flooring is easier to clean and will last longer in the constant life of a dog owner.

Dangling Cords and Cables

Chewing on cords isn’t just destructive though, it’s dangerous. Puppies, especially, like to chew on things, and exposed wires can give shocks or burns. Keep your home safe for your pup by using cord covers or tucking wires out of reach.

Delicate Rugs

While fancy rugs can tie the room together, they are also a magnet for the mud, fur, and even the occasional accident for your furry friends. Some messes are so tough, even the toughest cleaners can’t completely erase them. Money Digest reports that replacing damaged rugs is a common expense for pet owners — so washable or stain resistant options can save you a bundle.

Unsecured Plants

Lilies, azaleas and pothos are some plants that are toxic to dogs if eaten. Non toxic plants can be chew toys as well, and it’s not uncommon to come home to shredded leaves and dirt all over the floor. According to the ASPCA, thousands of pet poisoning cases occur each year with household plants. Secure your greenery or opt for dog safe varieties.

White Furniture

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The kind of person that can keep white furniture in a house with dogs is a brave soul. Although your pup might be house trained, fur, dirt and drool still manage to find their way onto sofas and chairs. Go for darker, pet friendly fabrics that don’t show wear and tear.

Easily Swallowed Small Objects

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Dogs are notorious for chewing, or swallowing, random objects. Small decorations, buttons and loose parts from toys can become choking hazards. If there’s any of that sort or thing, it’s wise to keep it well out of reach or not have it at all.

Flimsy Screen Doors

Dogs are pushers, literally. An excited dog rushing to greet a visitor or chase a squirrel will quickly destroy flimsy screen doors. Replacing expensive screens or reinforced panels can keep your pup safe.

Scented Candles or Essential Oils

While we humans might love a home filled with relaxing scents, some candles and oils can be very harmful to dogs. Eucalyptus or tea tree oil can irritate their respiratory system. Pet friendly alternatives or unscented options are safer.

Expensive Bedding

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It’s easy to love sharing a bed with your dog — but it’s not without consequences. High end linens don’t stand a chance against fur, drool and the occasional muddy paw. Go for washable, durable bedding instead, that can take the occasional mishap.

Heavy Drapes

Dogs just can’t resist tugging, chewing or hiding behind long, flowing drapes. Over time they can trap fur and odors. Rather than having heavy drapes, consider swapping them for blinds or shorter, less likely to get dirty curtains to save yourself a lot of hassle.

Chemical Cleaning Products

Ingredients in many of the common cleaning products are toxic to dogs, especially if they lick floors or surfaces after cleaning. If you must use chemicals, look into pet-safe cleaners or make your own with vinegar and water (they are just as effective but safer).

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.