Common Household Dangers for Dogs

This week we’re diving into common household dangers. To make things simple, we’ll walk through the home room by room, calling out common risks and offering easy, practical ways to keep your dog safe.

Kitchen

The kitchen, often called the heart of the home, is full of tempting smells, but it can also be one of the riskiest spaces for your dog. Beyond toxic foods (covered here), there are other hazards to consider:

• Human foods: Even if they’re not technically toxic, some foods are not suitable for dogs. High-fat items, for example, can trigger pancreatitis, so these should be avoided or only offered in very small amounts.

• Food scraps: Pits, peels, cobs, spoiled leftovers, or uncooked items can cause obstructions, infections, or toxic reactions. As a rule of thumb: if it’s not safe for you to eat, it’s probably not safe for your dog either.

• Utensils and knives: Unwashed dishes or knives on the counter can be irresistible but dangerous. Clean them promptly and keep sharp tools out of reach.

• Trash and wrappers: Discarded food and packaging can cause problems, from intestinal blockages to suffocation. An empty chip bag, for example, can get stuck over your dog’s face while they lick out crumbs. Pet-proof trash cans are a must.

We’ll talk more about cleaning product hazards in the bathroom section, but one quick note: plain hand soap can be used to spot-clean your dog if necessary, just make sure it’s completely rinsed off.

Bathroom and Laundry

Bathrooms and laundry rooms often store powerful products that can harm pets:

• Cleaning products: Toxicity depends on the product, concentration, and amount ingested. Even natural or homemade solutions can be risky. Essential oils, for example, may cause problems when inhaled or ingested. Always store products securely, rinse or dry surfaces fully, and keep pets away from fumes.

• Toilets: Close the lid to prevent exposure to cleaners or infectious agents.

• Medications: Both human and veterinary medications can be dangerous if given at the wrong dose, or if your dog helps themselves. Some human medications even contain sweeteners that are toxic to dogs. Never give medication without your veterinarian’s direction, and always store medicines securely.

• Cosmetics and hygiene products: Lotions, creams, cotton balls, Q-tips, feminine products, and even hair ties can all cause health problems if swallowed. Secure these items before leaving your dog unattended.

Living Areas and Bedrooms

Our relaxation spaces may feel safe, but hidden dangers are common:

• Electrical cords and open flames: Puppies and new pets especially may chew cords or wag their tails into candles.

• Small objects: Toys, socks, coins, batteries, and tools can be swallowed, causing obstructions or chemical burns.

• Holiday decorations: Seasonal décor often involves chewable or toxic items, plan ahead and consider a “dog-safe zone.”

• Hidden toxins: Play-Doh, adhesives, mothballs, some essential oils, and potpourri can all cause illness if ingested.

• Structural hazards: Stairs, balconies, low windows, and pools or ponds pose risks for curious pets.

Garage, Shed, and Yard

Outdoor spaces bring their own set of hazards:

• Chemicals: Antifreeze, ice melt, fertilizers, pest control products, fuels, paints, and even compost can be toxic. Keep them stored securely and wait for treated areas to be safe (active, curing, or drying time on label) before letting your dog back in.

• Lawn equipment: Power tools and machinery should never be used around pets, secure your dog in another space before starting work.

• Plants: Some plants are toxic to dogs, and severity depends on the plant, part, and growth stage. For example, green parts of tomato plants are toxic, but ripe tomatoes are safe. Use an app like PlantNet to identify plants and check the ASPCA toxic plant resource.

• Wildlife and carcasses: Frogs, snakes, insects, or dead animals can carry toxins, infections, or poison residues (if killed by bait).

• Standing water: Puddles or ponds can harbor bacteria and parasites that make dogs sick.

What to Do if Your Dog Gets Into Something

If your dog eats or is exposed to something questionable:

1. Identify what it was and how much was ingested.

2. Check trusted resources: Pet Poison Helpline Database

   • ASPCA toxic plan resource

   • Pet Poison Helpline Database

   • Or call a hotline: Pet Poison (855-764-7661), ASPCA (888-426-4435)

3. Contact your veterinarian for guidance.