Here Are Some Ways To Introduce Your Dog To Your Newborn Baby!

Are you expecting a child? Bringing a newborn baby home when you have a dog – or two! – can be a nerve-wracking experience. Here are some tips to help the process go smoothly and safely.

Preparing Before The Baby’s Arrival

1. Include your dog in preparations. Let them investigate your tummy, examine the baby’s nursery, and don’t stop their daily routines.
2. Keep training. Don’t slip up on obedience training; it will come in handy!
3. Don’t make assumptions about how your dog will treat your baby.
4. Reinforce your position as the leader of the household. Enforce rules and make sure your dog listens to you.
5. Set boundaries. Teach your dog to play gently, fence off certain areas that you don’t want them to have access to, and be consistent.

The Baby’s Arrival

1. Start with the baby inside the house first, then have someone bring your dog into the home on a leash from the outdoors.
2. Let your dog get used to your baby’s scent first. Bring them something that has the baby’s scent before you ever take the baby into your home.
3. Don’t neglect your dog; make sure they get attention, too!
4. Make sure your dog gets exercise on the day that the baby comes home.
5. Let your dog sniff at the newborn baby from afar.

Daily Life With A Newborn

1. Don’t leave your dog alone with the baby, ever. Yes, it’s mostly safe, but you want to avoid all risk.
2. Teach respect to both your baby and dog. Teach your child not to grab at or be harsh with your dog, and teach your dog to be gentle.
3. Know when to seek help from a professional trainer.
4. If your dog simply never acclimates to the baby, even with extensive training, remember your priorities and seek a safe new home for your dog.

Feature Image Source: Pixabay