New puppy basics
What household items are dangerous for a new puppy?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Electrical cables, small objects that can be swallowed such as coins and buttons, certain house plants, medications, cleaning products, some human foods, and string or elastic bands all pose real risks to a curious puppy that explores mostly with its mouth. A room by room check before the puppy arrives catches most of these.
Chewing and swallowing risk tops the list
Puppies investigate new objects by mouthing them, so anything small enough to swallow, from hair ties to coins, is a genuine choking or blockage risk that adult dogs rarely bother with in the same way.
Chemicals and medications need a secure home
Cleaning products, medications and anything toxic should live behind a closed cupboard door rather than on an open shelf or countertop a curious puppy could reach by standing on hind legs, especially as it grows.
Key takeaways
- Small swallowable objects are one of the most common hazards for exploring puppies.
- Store cleaning products and medications securely, out of reach even as the puppy grows.
- A room by room walkthrough before collection day catches most everyday hazards.