So how do you go about keeping your pup safe? Well, think about anything bad that he may try to get into while you're away or in a different room and put those items away. And if he's good at opening up cabinets then you need to come up with a child proof lock. You can do it!

Keeping your dog safe — and your possessions intact — is simple to do, provided you know a few tricks and follow these easy steps.

1. Baby-Proof the House.
Dogs may not be human children, but the same devices we use to keep kids safe also work well for keeping our dogs out of trouble.

If you don’t have kids, take a trip to your local Target or baby store and check out your options:

• Baby gates that limit access to rooms you use frequently
• Covers for electrical outlets
• Power-strip covers
• Safety locks for your kitchen and bathroom cabinets
• A containment system for your electrical cords

2. Buy a Trashcan Your Dog Can’t Open
Most dogs love to root around in the trash for delicious treats, like pizza crust, fast-food wrappers and used tissues.

The most effective solution is a pull-out trashcan, but they can be horrifically expensive. But if you have a large, extremely food-motivated dog, a pull-out can might be your best option.

For smaller dogs or those who aren’t as interested in plowing through garbage, a sturdy metal trashcan with a step-on lid is the way to go.

3. Close the Doors
If your dog pees on your bed, shreds your linens or otherwise behaves badly in the bathroom, bedrooms or any other rooms, keep the doors to those rooms closed when you aren’t in them. Voila!

4. Banish Clutter
Dogs love to chew; if they destroy your possessions, it’s your fault for giving them access to your stuff. Get smart, and put your things away when you aren’t using them.

5. Crate the Beast
Left alone in an empty house, dogs can create a great deal of mischief.

The best (and easiest!) way to keep your pup out of trouble is to crate train him and keep him confined when you aren’t home.

Dog-Proofing Is Worthwhile
Although this list of tips might seem daunting (and expensive!), dog-proofing your home is definitely worth the time and expense.

Other things to be concerned about are your rugs, pillows, and shoes. If you have an inkling that your mischievous doggy may tear up one more of these items, either close the door where these items are or crate him during the day while you're at work.

If your pup loves his crate you can get him a larger one and fill it with a bunch of doggy friendly toys. Problem solved, but continue to keep a watchful eye on him. He's precious cargo!

In addition, Petful has advice on how to keep your pup out of harm's way. Whew!