Jim and Grandma Una in New Mexico this past winter.Your puppy is reliant upon you to provide a safe environment for him. Of primary concern is adequate shelter that offers protection from excessive heat as well as protection from the cold. Heatstroke can be a life or death situation, particularly for the very young or elderly dog. Make sure his shelter is well-ventilated or air-conditioned in summer months, and that shade and plenty of fresh water is always available. Rather than a doghouse, a wonderful, inexpensive option is installing a "doggy door" from the fenced yard to a utility room, kitchen or any other room that can be closed off from the rest of the house and "puppy-proofed".
As much as dogs may love to run, it is an unfair risk to your dog as well as to the family that loves him to ever allow him to run free without supervision. Even the best trained dog who "never leaves" his property is tempted on occasion by a squirrel, cat, or another dog. Too many "trusted" companions are shoveled up off the roads and highways every year, and I do not want to see your puppy become one of the statistics. Also, many dogs are stolen and then sold to researchers, or stolen for hunting season. Consider having your dog microchipped as a permanent means of identification. Animal shelters and most vets have scanners and can trace a microchipped dog back to his owner; also, responsible research facilities supposedly scan and will not use microchipped dogs.
Providing an adequately fenced area for your puppy is imperative. It does not have to be a huge area; a long, narrow run allows more exercise than a square-shaped kennel. Many fencing materials are available, some quite inexpensive that you can install yourself. Just make sure that gates are securely latched and locked. Another option called "invisible fencing" is now on the market; it should keep your dog in, but obviously will not keep strange dogs or predatory animals out. Chaining a dog is NOT a safe or humane method of confining a dog, particularly large dogs that need exercise or puppies who may panic and get tangled. And, if chained, they are at the mercy of other animals or people who may approach.
You will need to "puppy proof" your home, and continue many precautions throughout the dog's life. In the home, keep dangerous or sharp objects out of reach. Electrical cords near the floor can be tempting and deadly. Even an open hot oven door can cause serious burns. Virtually all substances considered poisonous to humans are also poisonous to dogs, such as cleaning fluids, cleansers, fertilizers, cement, lime, caulks, fireworks containing phosphorus, insecticides, rat poisons, etc. Note that anti-freeze is particularly tasty to dogs ... and extremely deadly even in very small amounts. And some foods that are fine for humans are poisonous to dogs (i.e., chocolate, onions, some chewing gums). Also consider your house and yard plants as potentially dangerous ... puppies love to chew and many common plants are poisonous.
When you are not able to keep an eye on your puppy, the safest place for him is in his outdoor run or in a crate.
