Dogs are curious creatures, especially puppies. They explore the world with their noses, paws, and unfortunately… their teeth. While it might seem harmless for your dog to chew on a shoelace or a toy, a household electrical cord is a very different story.

 

Not only can chewing cords cause electric shocks and serious burns to your dog, it can also cause major house fires. This hidden hazard is in almost every home, from kitchen appliances to phone chargers, and it’s one that many pet owners don’t think about until it’s too late.

 

Why Dogs Chew Wires

 

Before we get into prevention, it helps to understand why dogs are drawn to cords in the first place:

• Teething relief: Puppies chew to soothe sore gums.
• Boredom or anxiety: Dogs left alone may chew as a way to cope with stress.
• Texture and movement: Dangling cords mimic the feel of toys or sticks.
• Attention-seeking: If chewing gets a reaction, some dogs repeat the behavior.

 

The Dangers of Chewing Electrical Cords

 

When a dog bites through a wire, they’re at risk of:

• Electric shock: which can be fatal.
• Oral burns: causing pain, drooling, or refusal to eat.
• Internal injury: if wire fragments are swallowed.
• Causing a fire: damaged wires can spark and ignite flammable materials.

 

How to Pet-Proof Your Wires

1. Hide Them Out of Reach

Run cords behind furniture where your dog can’t get to them.

Use cord clips to keep them high and tight along walls.

 

2. Use Cord Protectors

Plastic cord covers or flexible tubing can protect wires from avid chewers.

Spiral cable wraps are inexpensive and available online or at hardware stores.

 

3. Block Access to Hazard Zones

Use baby gates or exercise pens to keep dogs out of home offices or entertainment areas with lots of cords.

 

4. Provide Safe Chew Alternatives

Offer durable chew toys or frozen treats to satisfy the chewing instinct.

Rotate toys regularly so they stay interesting.

 

5. Train and Supervise

Redirect your dog to a safe toy when they go for a cord.

Praise and reward when they make the right choice.

 

Extra Fire Safety Tip

Make it a habit to unplug small appliances like toasters, kettles, and phone chargers when not in use. Not only does this save energy, but it reduces the chance of a spark if your dog manages to get to a cord.

 

Bottom Line

Pet-proofing your wires is a small change that can prevent serious injury to your dog and protect your home from potential fire hazards. A little prevention goes a long way toward keeping tails wagging and your home safe.

If you’ve got a curious chewer at home, take a few minutes today to look around and ask yourself: Are my wires really dog-safe?

 

Prepare Prevent Protect