Back when we got our dog Luna, I was so excited to get our home ready! I remember going shopping for all her toys, beds, blankets and accessories.
Changing up your home is always exciting. And finding ways to make it an even more dog-friendly space is key to keeping you both chilled out and relaxed.
So, here’s my personal dog-geek guide to making your home a stylish and functional space for you and your fur family.
1) Use their belongings as decoration
Dogs have a lot of stuff. But not all of it needs to be put away. I had a gap in the living room where the dog bed could live but I tried really hard to find one that fit in with my décor so that it is not only comfy for Luna but looks great in my home!
Shop around for your dog beds and food bowls so that they go with your style and let it be part of the décor.
2) Keep breakables out of reach
Dogs, especially puppies, are curious. So, keep interesting things low to the ground for them to safely explore. In my home, I make sure fragile items are higher up out of reach. Luna’s toys as well as sturdy items that are useful for hiding treats behind are perfect items for storing at low levels or on the floor.
3) Tackle dog hair with a vacuum
Handle dog hair regularly. Vacuuming every couple of days is fast and easy, before they turn into tumbleweeds around the house. I brush Luna regularly to remove loose hair and then vacuum twice a week to keep on top of the floor. Trust me about keeping up with this! It makes all the difference.
4) What you do, your dog needs space to do
Does your dog have space in every room? I thought I’d gotten everything ready for Luna’s arrival. Her bed was in place, the bowls were ready, the lead was in the cupboard. But where on earth was I supposed to store the rolls of poop bags once they were out of the box? I can’t believe I forgot something like that!
The point is to make sure your dog has space to eat, play, rest, sleep, use the bathroom and get clean. Try installing a dog dining area or a mud area for when Fido comes inside from the rain.
I’d love to know what other dog lovers are doing in their homes. What’s your favorite dog-inspired interior design tip? Send me a quick message at samantha@surroundedbyanimals.co.uk and let me know! Send a pic too, if you can.