Electrical outlets aren't just bad news for curious kids; they can send an electrical shock right through a curious dog too. But your inquisitive pup doesn't know an outlet exists if he can't see it, and he might be less eager to go near it if electrical cords are hidden.
Step 1
Block the outlet with furniture. Sliding your computer tower slightly to the left or rearranging your couch can block off all inquisitive dogs. Baskets and other similar objects work well too. Just don't use the same basket you use to keep your dogs toys inside.
Step 2
Place outlet covers on outlets that aren't in use. While most dogs don't randomly visit electrical outlets and lick them, some might give the plastic a taste and get a nasty electric shock back in return. The covers prevent anything, even your pup's big tongue, from getting inside.
Step 3
Keep electrical cords hidden. While cats are more infamously known for destroying electrical cables, dogs aren't at all innocent. Tie cords together with plastic ties and shuffle them behind furniture if possible. If you have a small dog that can still sneak behind the furniture to get them, hide them in a PVC pipe.
Step 4
Spray an anti-chew spray on the wall and ground near the outlet. Be careful not to spray the liquid into the outlet itself. Anti-chew sprays will make your dog's nose take him the opposite way of the outlet. Two or three sprays will suffice.
Step 5
Place your pup's toy container and bed against a wall or piece of furniture that has no outlet. Dogs can leave their toys everywhere, so keep a close eye on bones, ropes, balls and other objects that make their way toward outlets.
Step 6
Let your dog know it's not OK to check in on the upkeep of your house's electrical system. Each time he goes for an outlet, immediately say "ah" or "no" sharply to get his attention, and that's it. Don't yell, scream or throw a fit over it. Don't tell him to "come" and reward him with a treat or anything similar. If you do that every time he goes near an outlet, he may think walking up to the outlet gets him treats.
References
Tips
- Consistency is key when letting your dog know it's not OK to go near an outlet. If you only sometimes say "ah" or "no," he won't understand.
- Crating your dog when you leave will prevent him from seeking out cords and outlets while you're away.
Warnings
- If your dog licks an outlet or bites an electrical cord and receives an electric shock, visit your vet immediately.
Writer Bio
Located in Pittsburgh, Chris Miksen has been writing instructional articles on a wide range of topics for online publications since 2007. He currently owns and operates a vending business. Miksen has written a variety of technical and business articles throughout his writing career. He studied journalism at the Community College of Allegheny County.