If you’ve ever caught your dog chewing on a table leg or sneaking up onto the sofa like it’s a covert mission, you’re not alone.

Dogs, especially curious ones, love to explore their space. They do it sometimes in ways that aren’t always the safest (or cleanest).

So, creating a dog-friendly home isn’t just about making your space look cute with paw-print cushions. It’s about making sure your dog feels safe, comfortable, and included in your home life...without sacrificing your sanity.

Whether you’ve just brought home a new puppy or your older dog is finally allowed full house access, there are a few easy changes you can make that’ll help your pup settle in happily (and avoid a few accidents along the way).

1. Start with the Floor - What’s Under Their Paws Matters

Think about where your dog spends most of their time.

Chances are, it’s on the floor. Slippery surfaces like tile or hardwood can be tough on paws, especially for older dogs or excitable puppies who love to zoom around.

Adding a few rugs with non-slip backing can help your dog move around more confidently and avoid injuries. Plus, a soft rug is an ideal napping spot in the middle of a sunny room.

And while we’re on the topic of the floor...consider what your dog might accidentally chew on. Loose cables, small objects, kids’ toys, socks. They all somehow end up in your dog’s mouth.

Get into the habit of doing a quick sweep of the room every morning. Your dog (and your vet bills) will thank you.

2. Create a Designated Dog Zone

Dogs love to feel like they have a space of their own. It doesn’t have to be a separate room, just a cosy corner with a comfy bed, a few toys, and maybe a soft blanket they can burrow into.

It’s where they’ll go when they want to rest, chew in peace, or just watch the world go by.

Having a ‘dog zone’ also helps with boundaries.

It tells them, “This is your space,” and it gives you a little more control over where they spend most of their time.

If you have a crate, you can make it feel like a little den. Toss in a few soft items, drape a light blanket over the top, and always keep the door open so your dog knows they can come and go as they please.

3. Make Your Furniture Dog-Safe (and Dog-Worthy)

You don’t need to redesign your living room. However, if your dog has access to the couch (or is sneaky about climbing on it when you’re not home), it’s worth thinking about a few things.

First, throw blankets are your friend.

They’re easier to wash than entire sofa covers and can protect your furniture from fur, muddy paws, and the occasional drool session.

Second, consider your dog’s jumping habits.

If you have a small breed or a senior dog, jumping on and off high furniture can be hard on joints. Pet stairs or ramps are a great solution. They blend into the decor and save your dog from a possible injury.

And third, avoid any low furniture that has sharp corners, especially if your dog is a zoomer (as most are). 

You’d be surprised how many face bumps can be avoided with a simple corner protector.

4. Think About What’s Within Reach

Dogs explore with their noses and mouths. That means anything at nose-level (or within paw’s reach) is fair game.

If you’ve got a coffee table full of snacks, candles, or even remote controls, just know that at some point, your dog’s probably going to try to sample it all.

It’s a good habit to keep surfaces tidy and store away anything that could be harmful. Houseplants are another big one.

Many common ones like pothos, lilies, or aloe are toxic to dogs. A quick online check can help you know which plants are safe and which ones to keep out of reach.

And...of course, the kitchen.

If your dog’s a counter-surfer or a bin raider, baby-proofing tools like cupboard latches or motion-activated pet deterrents can be surprisingly effective.

5. Let in the Light (and the Outside World)

Dogs love watching the outside world.

If you can, leave a curtain open or set up a low bench or soft mat near a window where they can perch and stare out. It gives them entertainment when you're not around and helps reduce boredom or anxiety.

Window watching also helps your dog feel connected to what’s going on, especially if you’re out for a few hours. And if they start barking at every bird or car, you can gently redirect them with a treat or toy.

Remember, it’s all about balance.

6. Keep Them Busy Indoors

Even on days when it’s raining buckets outside, your dog still needs mental stimulation. Having a few toys they love (and rotating them every few days) can keep things fresh and fun.

Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, or even a frozen Kong can keep your dog entertained while you work, cook, or relax.

You can even create little indoor games like ‘find the treat’ by hiding small pieces around the house.

This kind of activity keeps them engaged and also helps burn off some of that extra energy without needing to go outside for hours.

7. Safety First, Always

It goes without saying, but it's worth repeating: dog-proof your home the same way you’d baby-proof it. Afterall, these four-legged adorable creatures are our babies without doubt.

Cover up power outlets, secure heavy furniture that could tip, use stair gates if needed, and make sure there’s nothing sharp or toxic lying around.

If you use cleaning products or store things like medication at home, always keep them out of reach.

Your dog might not be trying to cause chaos, but they are naturally curious. So, keeping them safe sometimes means thinking a step ahead of them.

8. Make It Smell Like Home

Dogs rely heavily on scent. This is why adding familiar smells such as your scent, their blanket, even an old t-shirt can make a huge difference in helping them feel calm and at home.

If you’ve just moved or introduced your dog to a new space, spreading a bit of “home” scent into the room helps them settle faster.

And while it might not match your Pinterest aesthetic, your dog’s comfort will be worth it.

Wrapping It Up

Creating a dog-friendly home isn’t about making your space perfect. It’s about making small, thoughtful changes that help your dog feel included, safe, and comfortable in the space they share with you.

After all, your dog doesn’t care about the colour of your couch or whether your cushions match. They care about how your home makes them feel.

So with just a few adjustments, you can give your pup a space that’s not only safe but full of love, comfort, and a whole lot of tail wags.