Dog owners warned against this one popular home design feature

How modern, open-plan living could be impacting your dog’s wellbeing: a canine behaviourist explains...

For years, Brits have been renovating their homes to create open-plan living spaces, and whilst this is a modern and stylish option, some are starting to see the downsides. Not only can it make your home more expensive to heat, Victoria Cooper, Certified Dog Behaviourist recently told Jackson Woodturners, hallway and stairpart specialists, that such designs could be detrimental to your dog’s wellbeing. 

The warning comes following guidance shared in a dog-friendly hallway design guide launched by Jackson Woodturners for National Pet Month. The guide collates tips from experts across cleaning, joinery and interior design, with expert insights from canine behaviourist Victoria. 

Modern living styles could be causing “bad” dog behaviours

Discussing the challenges of open-plan homes: managing overstimulation and doorway excitement. Victoria comments, “Modern homes tend to be visually appealing for us, but for some dogs, unlimited access to all areas can be overwhelming. Large windows, open entrances, and constant visual stimulation can lead to increased alertness, hyper-vigilance, and reactivity. Dogs that are frequently exposed to excessive sights and sounds without the option to retreat can struggle to settle and relax.

“Dogs exposed to repeated stressful environments without enough downtime can experience ‘trigger stacking’ - where stress accumulates over time, leading to heightened reactivity, hyper-vigilance, or even aggressive behaviour. Noisy households, frequent visitors, or unpredictable surroundings can contribute to this, leaving dogs feeling overwhelmed.”

Instead, Victoria suggests,

“Ensure dogs have structured rest periods throughout the day, away from busy areas. Using calming music, and blinds can help reduce external stressors. Consider installing indoor dog gates across busy areas. A well-placed gate or room divider system can stop a dog from reaching the front door before they are invited or allow them to observe without feeling the need to react. Covering large windows with frosted film or using blinds can help reduce excessive external stimulation, particularly for dogs prone to barking or reacting to movement outside.”

Here are 6 considerations to ensure your home is as safe as it is welcoming for canine companions, according to Victoria.

1. Addressing Slippery Floors: Protecting Joints and Confidence

Modern homes are now designed to be sleek and easy to maintain, however, whilst natural wood, laminate, and tiled floors may look stylish, they can be hazardous for dogs, especially puppies still developing coordination and older dogs with weaker joints. Slipping can lead to knee injuries, hip strain, and a general loss of confidence in movement. I have met many dogs that are scared to walk on slippery floors and this can even impact them crossing a floor such as a kitchen to go outside to the toilet. 

Simple Fix: Use non-slip rugs or runners in high-traffic areas and near food and water stations. This not only provides stability but also gives dogs clear pathways where they feel secure walking.

2. Creating a Safe Resting Place: The Need for Decompression

Dogs need a dedicated space where they can truly relax, undisturbed. A resting area should be positioned away from busy walkways, entrances, and external triggers such as doorways and windows, which can create unnecessary stress from outside activity.

Simple Fix: Choose a quiet corner or a low-traffic area and provide a comfortable bed, crate, or covered den where the dog can retreat. If possible, position this area away from direct noise, such as televisions or busy family spaces. Dogs need around 8-12 hours of sleep per day, and without sufficient rest, they can become irritable and more easily triggered by stressors in their environment.

3. Avoiding Toxic Plants: A Hidden Danger at Dog Level

Many common houseplants and garden plants are toxic to dogs, causing anything from a mild stomach upset to serious poisoning. Puppies are particularly interested in chewing on plants which can be dangerous to their health. When designing a home with a dog in mind, plant choices should be made carefully.

Simple Fix: Keep toxic plants such as lilies, ivy, aloe vera, and certain ferns out of reach. Make sure any plants are above dog height on shelves or in tall planters. Opt for pet-safe alternatives like spider plants, some ferns, and herbs such as rosemary and basil.

4. Scent: Using Relaxing Pheromone Diffusers for Security

A new environment can be overwhelming, and subtle methods of reducing stress can make a significant difference. Pheromone diffusers, such as Pet Remedy or Adaptil, release calming signals that help dogs feel more secure, especially during transitions. Also be aware that chemical scent diffusers or candles can be highly toxic to some dogs and can cause skin and breathing irritations.  If you are going to use them, they should not be placed at floor level or in areas where the dog sleeps.

Simple Fix: Avoid highly scented chemical room diffusers. Place a pheromone diffuser near your dog’s resting area or in rooms where they spend the most time. These can be particularly beneficial for rescue dogs or those prone to anxiety.

A well-designed home that takes a dog’s physical and emotional needs into account can reduce a lot of problematic behaviour and stress for the dog. By reducing and managing environmental stressors, preventing hazards, and offering a secure resting space, owners can ensure their dogs feel safe, confident, and relaxed at home.