Keeping your dog safe at home

Ensuring your dog's safety is an important part of pet ownership, particularly when you are travelling with dogs or they are at home alone.
Take a look at some important tips on how to keep your dog safe in various environments and during your adventures together.
 

Prioritise Your Dog's Safety at the Park and Beach

Visiting the local dog park is a great way to exercise your dog and teach them how to socialise. While it’s a fun day out for you and your pet, there are some dog safety tips to be mindful of when you visit one:  

Dog Park Safety Tips:

•    Keep Your Dog on a Lead: Unless you’re in a lead-free area, keeping your dog on a lead helps prevent accidents, especially near roads, unfenced areas, or when other dogs are aggressive.
•    Command Training: In lead-free areas, ensure your dog responds well to commands like ‘come’ and ‘stay’ before letting them off the lead. Dog obedience training will help promote both their safety and the safety of others.
•    Vaccinations and Parasite Protection: Make sure your dog is up to date with vaccinations and protected against parasites. NexGard SPECTRA® for Dogs provides the most complete protection against fleas, ticks, mites, lice, heartworm and intestinal worms, all in one tasty, monthly chew.
 

Beach Safety Tips:

•    Sun Protection: Dogs, especially those with short or light-coloured coats, can get sunburned. Apply pet-safe sunscreen and limit their sun exposure during peak hours.
•    Access to Shade: Ensure there is a shaded area where your dog can rest and cool down.
•    Fresh Drinking Water: Always bring fresh water to keep your dog hydrated and prevent them from drinking salt water, which can cause dehydration and illness.
•    Avoid Hot Sand and Pavements: Hot surfaces can burn your dog's paws. Check the ground temperature with your hand before allowing your dog to walk on it.
•    Supervise Swimming: Dog water safety is important - not all dogs are natural or strong swimmers. Supervise your dog in the water and avoid strong currents. 
•    Prevent Saltwater Consumption: Drinking saltwater can lead to salt poisoning. Keep fresh water accessible and encourage your dog to drink it.
•    First Aid: Carry a dog first aid kit for emergencies, including items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers.
 

General Outdoor Safety Tips:

•    Dog Car Safety: A method of restraint such as a dog seat belt or car harness is important while travelling with dogs. For more tips, visit our Dog Car Safety page.
•    Remove Outdoor Toxins: Be aware of food dogs cannot eat, toxic plants, stagnant water, chemicals, and poisonous animals. Remove chewable items like wires, scissors, and glue to prevent accidents.
•    Secure the Area: To prevent escapes, ensure your yard is securely fenced. Learn how to stop your dog from escaping by reinforcing fences and supervising outdoor time.
•    Safe Dog Toys: Choose safe dog toys to avoid choking hazards and ensure they are appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing strength.
•    Dog Pool Safety: Supervise your dog around pools. Ask your veterinary clinic about dog CPR to be prepared for water-related emergencies.
 

dog safety tips 2
dog safety tips 2

Keep Your Dog Safe in the Heat and Cold

Keeping your dog safe outdoors requires special precautions during extreme weather conditions. Be sure to follow these tips on how to keep your dog safe in hot weather, cold weather, and even snow:

Dog Heat Safety:

•    Provide Plenty of Water: Always have fresh water available for your dog to prevent dehydration.
•    Use Dog Sunscreen: Apply dog sunscreen to protect areas with little fur, like the nose, ears, and belly, especially for dogs with light or short coats.
•    Create Shade: Ensure your dog has access to well ventilated, shaded areas to rest and cool down.
•    Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 10 AM and 4 PM.
•    Cool Down with Water: Provide a kiddie pool or hose down your dog to help them stay cool.
•    Protect Paws: Hot pavements and sand can burn your dog’s paws. Walk your dog during cooler parts of the day and check the ground temperature with your hand before allowing them to walk on it.
 

Dog and Cold/Snow Safety:

•    Keep Them Warm: Dog sweaters or coats, especially for short-haired breeds, are a good way to keep your dog warm in cold weather. Also, after being outside, dry your dog’s coat and paws to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
•    Limit Exposure: Avoid leaving your dog outside for extended periods. Bring them indoors frequently to warm up.
•    Protect Paws: Dogs should wear booties to protect their paws from ice, snow, and salt. They should also check their paws regularly for signs of injury or irritation. 
•    Provide Shelter: If your dog spends time outside, ensure they have a well-insulated and dry shelter to protect them from the cold.
•    Avoid Antifreeze: Keep your dog away from areas where antifreeze may have been used, as it is highly toxic.
•    Adjust Food Intake: Dogs may require more calories in the cold to maintain their body heat, so adjust their diet accordingly.
Regularly check your dog for signs of heat stress or cold discomfort, and adjust their environment and activities as needed.
 

Obedience and Commands Training

Dog obedience training is a lifelong investment that ensures your dog's safety and well-being. Teaching your dog certain commands can prevent dangerous situations and help them behave appropriately in various environments. For example, here are some basic dog commands every pup should know:
•    ‘Sit’: Helps your dog to stay calm and controlled in different situations.
•    ‘Stay’: A command telling your dog to remain in one place, helping with their safety and that of others in busy or potentially dangerous areas.
•    ‘Come’: A reliable recall command that brings your dog back to you, preventing them from running into hazardous situations.
•    ‘Leave It’: Prevents your dog from picking up harmful objects or substances.
•    ‘Drop It’: Teaches your dog to release anything they have picked up, especially when they grab something dangerous.
•    ‘Heel’: Keeps your dog walking close to you, especially important near traffic or crowded areas.
•    ‘Down’: Helps to calm your dog and can be used to keep them in a safe, controlled position.


For a comprehensive guide on training these commands and more, visit our detailed Dog Commands and Training page. 


By mastering these commands, your dog can navigate both indoor and outdoor environments safely, making your time together more enjoyable and stress-free. 
 

What Can Dogs Not Eat?

Pet owners need to understand what dogs can and cannot eat to keep their furry friends safe. Many human foods that are quite safe for us are poisonous to dogs and can cause severe health issues, including:
•    Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and even death.
•    Grapes and Raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs.
•    Onions and Garlic: Contain compounds that can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anaemia.
•    Avocado: Contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.
•    Alcohol: Even small amounts can lead to intoxication, coma, or death.
•    Caffeine: Can cause rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors.
•    Xylitol: A sweetener found in many sugar-free products that can cause low blood sugar and liver failure. Signs include vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination, tremors, seizures and coma. 
•    Macadamia Nuts: Can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, and tremors.
•    Raw Dough: Can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol, leading to severe health issues.
•    Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injuries or blockages.


For a more detailed guide on feeding your dog safely, review our Feeding Dogs guide. 
 

Other Types of Dog Poison Dangers

In addition to certain human foods, there are other dog poison dangers out there that pet owners should look out for, such as toxic creatures, plants, chemicals, and everyday objects that can pose significant risks to your dog’s health.


Some common examples for dog owners in Australia include:
•    Cane Toads: These toads secrete a toxin that can cause severe reactions in dogs, including drooling, vomiting, seizures, and even death. If you live in an area where cane toads are common, supervise your dog closely and seek immediate veterinary care if exposure is suspected.
•    Sago Palm: Highly toxic, causing liver failure.
•    Oleander: Can cause severe heart problems.
•    Azaleas and Rhododendrons: Can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, and potential cardiovascular collapse.
•    Tulips and Daffodils: Bulbs can cause gastrointestinal irritation and other severe symptoms.
•    Household Cleaners: Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful if ingested.
•    Antifreeze: Contains ethylene glycol, which is extremely toxic to dogs.
•    Pesticides and Rodenticides: Chemicals used to control pests can be fatal if ingested by dogs.
•    Stagnant Water: Can harbour harmful bacteria and parasites. Ensure your dog drinks fresh, clean water to avoid illnesses.
•    Scissors and Sharp Objects: Can cause cuts or internal injuries if chewed or swallowed.
•    Glue: Some glues expand in the stomach, leading to blockages.
•    Wires and Electrical Cords: Can cause electrical shocks or internal damage if ingested.


It is normal for pet owners to wonder, ‘What plants are toxic for dogs?’ or ‘Is it safe for me to let my dog roam in this area?’ If you are unsure of possible dog poison risk, it is always better to err on the side of caution.
 

Be Prepared With a Dog First Aid Kit

Being prepared with a dog first aid kit will allow you to handle any emergencies to ensure your pet’s safety. Similar to a first aid kit for humans, here are some supplies you should have on hand:


•    Bandages and Gauze: For wrapping wounds and stopping bleeding.
•    Adhesive Tape: To secure bandages in place.
•    Antiseptic Wipes: For cleaning wounds and preventing infection.
•    Tweezers: For removing splinters, ticks, or foreign objects.
•    Scissors: For cutting bandages or fur around a wound.
•    Thermometer: To check your dog’s temperature.
•    Disposable Gloves: For handling wounds safely.
•    Emergency Blanket: To keep your dog warm in case of shock or hypothermia.
•    Muzzle: To prevent biting if your dog is in pain or scared.
•    Saline Solution: For flushing out wounds or eyes.
•    Pain Relief: Medications prescribed by your vet.
Check and update your dog's first aid kit regularly to ensure all items are in good condition and within their expiration dates. 


There is also a First Aid app for your pets that includes over 130 essential first aid articles for pet owners. This free app was created to ensure you are better prepared to recognise an emergency situation and can act quickly with effective first aid during the critical minutes before you get to a veterinary clinic. 

Search for First Aid for Pets Australia in your App Store or Google Play.


 

dog safety tips 3
dog safety tips 3

Consider Dog Safety in a Car

Every responsible pet owner must take measures to create a sense of dog car safety when travelling. Here are some top-level tips to keep your dog safe in the car:
•    Secure your dog with a dog seat belt or car dog harness to prevent injuries during sudden stops or accidents.
•    A secure crate can provide a safe space for your dog during car rides.
•    Keep your dog in the back seat to reduce the risk of injury from airbags.
•    Do not leave dogs unattended in cars - temperatures can rise quickly, leading to heatstroke and dehydration.
•    On long trips, take regular breaks to allow your dog to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.


For more detailed information on safety when travelling with dogs, read our Dog Car Safety piece.
 

Stop Your Dog From Escaping

No matter how happy a home you make for your dog, they are curious creatures, predisposed to adventure and exploration. As such, taking measures to prevent your dog from escaping the yard or home is necessary for their safety. 


Fortunately, there are some things you can try, including:
•    Secure Fencing: Ensure your yard has a tall, sturdy fence without gaps or weak spots that your dog can exploit.
•    Digging Prevention: Bury chicken wire or install a barrier at the base of the fence to prevent your dog from digging under it.
•    Supervised Outdoor Time: Keep an eye on your dog when they are outside to prevent escape attempts.
•    Training: Teach your dog commands like "stay" and "come" to help control their movements and prevent escapes.
•    Exercise and Enrichment: Provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation to reduce the urge to escape out of boredom.
•    Check for Gaps: Regularly inspect and repair any gaps or weak spots in your fence or gate.


If you’ve been wondering how to stop dogs from digging and escaping, these tips will help ensure your dog remains safe and secure on your property.
 

Play it Safe with Dog Toy Safety

Every dog loves a new toy to play with, but as you make your selection, consider the possible risks you could be introducing to your pup. Dog toy safety methods prevent injuries and keep your pet safe, so be sure to:


•    Choose Durable Toys: Opt for toys made from strong, durable materials that can withstand your dog's chewing. Avoid toys with small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed.
•    Regularly Inspect Toys: Frequently check your dog's toys for wear and tear. Remove any toys that are broken or have loose parts to prevent choking hazards.
•    Size Matters: Select toys that are appropriate for your dog's size. Small toys can be a choking hazard for large dogs, while large toys may be difficult for small dogs to play with safely.
•    Avoid Strings and Ribbons: Toys with strings, ribbons, or other thread-like components can pose a risk of strangulation or internal blockages if ingested.
•    Supervised Play: Always supervise your dog during playtime, especially with new toys or if your dog is an aggressive chewer.
 

Prioritise Your Dog's Water Safety

Is your dog regularly around water, such as a swimming pool or lake? Take some time to consider how you and your family can better practice dog water safety, especially if your dog loves to swim. 
 

Here are some key tips to keep your dog safe around water:
•    Supervision: Always supervise your dog when they are in the water.
•    Safe Access: Ensure your pool has steps with a grip or a ramp, as dogs don’t always find it easy to get in and out of pools.
•    Secure Fencing: Keep your pool securely fenced with the gate closed to prevent unsupervised access. Be wary of any soft pool covers that may trick your dog into thinking the pool is a solid surface.
•    Learn Dog CPR: Knowing dog CPR can save your dog's life in case of drowning or near-drowning incidents. Speak to your veterinary clinic about CPR for dogs or consider taking a pet first aid course to learn this valuable skill.
•    Watch for Fatigue: Be aware of signs that your dog is getting tired in the water, such as slow swimming, excessive panting, or struggling to keep their head above water. Encourage breaks and provide a shaded area for rest.
•    Life Jackets: Use a dog life jacket for added safety, especially in large bodies of water or if your dog is not a strong swimmer.
•    Clean Water: Ensure the water your dog swims in is clean and free from harmful chemicals or bacteria. Avoid stagnant water that can harbour parasites and bacteria.


By following these tips and prioritising dog pool safety, you can ensure your dog enjoys the water without any risks. 
 

Dog Safety Tips for Kids

Children must be supervised closely when around dogs, especially when playing. It’s important to teach your child to always be gentle, to maintain a safe distance and to never interrupt a dog who is sleeping or eating. Even if you don’t have a dog at home, it is still important to teach your child to be safe around dogs.  

Dog Walking Safety

Visibility and control are key for keeping both you and your dog safe while walking.
•    Use a Lead: Walk your dog on a lead to ensure it is comfortably restrained and close to you.
•    Safety Precautions: Keep your dog on a lead, even if they are usually slow and gentle, to protect them from other dogs or vehicles.
•    Night Walks: When walking your dog at night, stay on the footpath and wear a jacket or vest with reflective panels for visibility.
•    Reflective Gear for Dogs: To ensure your dog is visible to others, use a reflective jacket, tag, or collar.
•    Prevent Chasing and Getting Lost: Keeping your dog on a lead at night prevents them from chasing wildlife or getting lost in the dark.
 

Dogs and Bone Safety

Giving a dog a bone may seem like a natural thing to do, but are bones safe for dogs? Feeding bones can cause many potential problems. Cooked bones, such as ham bones, are not safe for dogs, as they may splinter and cause injury. Raw bones are also a potential risk for dogs and their owners, as raw meat can be contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter which can infect both dogs and people.  


Speak to your vet for advice before you give bones to your dog to better understand the safety risks.
 

Dog Hearing Protection

Protecting your dog from parasites is one of the primary responsibilities as a pet owner. NexGard SPECTRA® for Dogs  provides the most complete protection against fleas, ticks, mites, lice, heartworm and intestinal worms , all in one tasty, monthly chew. 


Some other general tips for reducing the risk of parasites are:
•    Keep the Environment Clean: Vacuum and wash bedding frequently.
•    Check for Ticks: This is especially important if you live in or travel to a known paralysis tick region, in which case daily tick searching  cis recommended.
•    Year-Round Protection: Use parasite protection year-round.
•    Regular Vet Check-ups: Schedule regular vet visits.
 

FAQs

  • Can dogs eat chocolate?

    We love it, but chocolate contains theobromine, and this is dangerous to dogs. Cocoa powder, dark chocolate and cooking chocolate are the most toxic forms, but even licking a substantial part of the chocolate icing from a cake can make a dog unwell. See your vet if your dog does manage to feast on some chocolate.

  • What plants are toxic for dogs?

    As dogs often like to chew plants, make sure you avoid plants known to be toxic – some examples include crocuses, cycads, azaleas, tulips and daffodils.

  • Are fertilisers dangerous to dogs?

    Some fertilisers may be dangerous to dogs, so in the backyard, make sure fertiliser containers are sealed, stored out of your dog's reach, and used strictly according to the manufacturer's directions. Dogs love 'blood and bone', even if it smells terrible to us, so keep them away from fertilisers to protect them from getting ill.

  • Can you use human sunscreen on dogs?

    No, you should not use human sunscreen on dogs. Human sunscreen contains ingredients that can be toxic to dogs if ingested, which is likely to happen as dogs tend to lick their skin. Instead, use a sunscreen specifically formulated for dogs to protect them from harmful UV rays. 

  • Can dogs drink pool water?

    It is not safe for dogs to drink pool water. Pool water often contains chlorine and other chemicals that can be harmful if ingested in large quantities. Drinking pool water can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Always provide fresh, clean water for your dog to drink when it is playing around or swimming in a pool.

     

    AU-CAN-0040-2024

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