You have a new baby in the house and everyone has concerns of how their dog will react. Many people give up their dogs because they have exhibited jealousy behaviors and people fear their dog may harm the baby. On the other side, many people have been successful in bringing the new baby and dog together.
The introduction of the baby to your dog is something that takes utmost care and time to ensure a safe, happy welcoming process. There are 2 things that need to happen. You need to prepare your dog beforehand for the new baby’s arrival. And then you need to actually introduce the dog to the new baby.
Preparing the dog
After being the center of attention up to this point, it is natural for your dog to be jealous when the new baby commands much of the attention the dog used to get. Following are some tips on things you can do to keep that from becoming a problem. Keep in mind that your dog is to understand that these things are not his.
A few months before your baby’s arrival you should:
- Take your dog to the vet for a checkup. Worms and parasites can be harmful to your baby so have your dog cleared of these.
- If your dog is not spayed or neutered it should be done and now is a good time to do it.
- If you have friends with babies, encourage them to bring them over so the dog can start getting used to what a baby is. Be sure to supervise any baby and pet interactions.
- Let your dog explore the new baby’s things. The crib, diaper changing area, the baby powder, lotions, diapers. Let them become familiar with the new smells and objects. Rub some lotion on your hands and let the dog sniff them. This will help the dog understand that the new baby is part of the family pack.
- If you’ve just had the baby and have a day or 2 in the hospital, have someone bring home some clothing the baby has worn to give your dog a chance to become familiar with the baby’s smell.
- For baby noises there are actually cds out there just for this purpose. SoundTherapy4pets.com has a cd called soothing sounds that has baby crying and children playing noises.
- If you have a rocker you can sit in that and give your dog treats to make that a positive experience for the dog.
- Likewise if you have a swing for the baby, turn it on or swing it back and forth do your dog gets used to that also.
- DO NOT let your dog play with any of the baby’s toys, or use any of the baby’s things for sleeping on. Your dog is to understand that these are not for him or her!
- Provide a barrier to the baby’s room if that is to be off limits. Make it something that they can see and hear through so they don’t feel left out or isolated from the family.
- You can use a doll to help your dog get used to the routines. Take the doll in a stroller when you walk your dog.
- Last but most important. Make sure you dog understands that each member of your family is alpha over him/her. This is crucial to ensure that if there are any signs of jealousy that you can reprimand your dog.
Introducing Your Dog To Your New Baby
The first few meetings of your dog and newborn are very important and often will dictate how your dog is to respond and act to the baby from this point forward. Because of this, it is important to do the introduction properly. Some tips when you first bring the baby home:
- Let someone else hold the baby while you greet your dog. It is important to pay attention to them when you first get home.
- Bring home a new toy for them and let them have it when you greet them. They will associate the baby with something positive.
- Once he/she has calmed down from you coming home you can start to introduce the baby. If you are not sure about your dog’s reaction, leash or restrain him for the introduction.
- Talk to your dog and let them sniff the baby and check out the new smells at their own pace.
- Do not force the baby on your dog. He or she may be scared and could bite out of fear.
- If your dog reacts aggressivley, put them in their crate or another room until they calm down. Once they’ve calmed down you can try it again.
- Once everyone is introduced, you can bring your pet to sit next to the baby. Give them treats for good behavior. Always make behaving around the baby a positive experience for your dog.
- Be sure to always spend some quality one-on-one time with your pet every day. Remember that they need to feel like they are part of the family.
