If you’re about to get a new furry friend, you’re probably feeling super excited to bring them home.

As the time approaches, you may be wondering how to make your house as dog friendly as possible, particularly if you’re getting a large breed.

That’s why we’ve put together these tips on how to make your home a safe and accommodating space for your new dog. 

Consider your furniture placement

First things first, take a look around your house and whether the current set-up will work for your large dog. Is there plenty of space for them to move around freely?

Are there areas for them to lie down fully extended without hitting furniture or other obstacles?

If you have any pieces of furniture that you think could be easily knocked over, it may be wise to move these to a low-traffic area.

You may also need to move some furniture around to create enough space for their bed, crate, toys, and other items.  

Choose an appropriate bed 

Once you’ve allocated some space for your new furry friend, you can invest in a high-quality crate and dog bed. Big dog breeds require a supportive bed that can comfortably accommodate their size and weight. 

There are plenty of large dog beds that are designed specifically for bigger breeds, that allow them to stand up, turn around and lay down comfortably. These beds will offer essential support to their joints and give them a safe space to curl up and get some R&R.

Make sure the garden is secure

The next thing you need to do is consider adequate containment for your dog. Make sure your outdoor area is fully secured so there’s no chance that your dog can escape your garden.

Check that all your fencing is secure, any gates are sturdy, and you block up any gaps or holes they could squeeze through. If you are worried about this and you’re not sure that you can sort this on your own, you can get professional help. They may recommend entirely new backyard fencing, or they may just be able to sort the parts that aren’t sturdy enough. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

You should also consider their visibility – if you have fences with gaps they can see through, this could increase the amount they bark at neighbours. Opt for solid fences or walls if possible and increase the height of any low borders. 

Create a safe environment

You want your home to be a safe space for your dog to roam and play, so it’s important to take steps to minimise any hazards.

For example, if you have any wires dangling down or trailing on the floor – your dog could chew threw them – so make sure they’re hidden or contained in a wire protector. 

You should also make sure toxic substances are out of reach of your dog, as they could make your pet poorly or even poison them.

Plants such as lilies, azaleas and wisteria are toxic to dogs – so check your garden before bringing your pooch home. 

By following these tips, you can create a safe and welcoming environment for your new furry friend.