Whatever you call it, the place where you and your family spend the most time will be where your dog wants to be. The family living room is a place where all kinds of potentially dangerous items can find their way into your pup's mouth (and stomach). Knitting materials, game pieces, other kids' toys, remote controls, magazines, ashtrays, pens and pencils, electronics paraphernalia, and any other small items should be put where your pup cannot reach them. You may need to redecorate for a while, finding secure containers for these items while your pup grows. Remove dangerous items before your pup enters the room, and train all family members to think about putting their things out of your pup's reach if they don't want them chewed or destroyed.

Things like potted plants and delicate end tables will get knocked over. It might be a good idea to store them away for the first few months until your puppy can learn to behave properly. Electrical cords need to be coiled and sprayed with Bitter Apple to prevent chewing. Anything wooden or seemingly chewable should also be protected from chewing.

Even with these precautions, it is recommended that you only let your puppy into your living and family rooms with supervision. Keep him on a short leash so his movements are restricted, and keep him close to you. This way, you can properly teach him how to behave so someday you can move some of your finer and more delicate furniture back where you want it and not have to worry about leaving the remote on the coffee table — or finding another set of iPod headphones mangled.