With the right preparation, bringing a dog and new baby together should pose no problems at all. Of course, it is always an exciting time bringing a new baby into the world, but sometimes a dog won't share your enthusiasm.
All change
Your life will change once you bring your new baby home and inevitably, the life your dog leads will have to change as well. Your dog will be used to all of your attention and even though you won't consciously mean to, your focus will now be on the new baby.
Some dogs adapt quickly and take on roles of protector and guardian while others respond more slowly and need some help getting comfortable in the new family situation.
One of the potential trouble areas is the sleeping location. If your dog sleeps on the bed with you make another cosy spot for them to sleep. Find something to put into the new location that reminds your dog of you so they feel happy and safe. It sometimes takes a few weeks to make the change but be persistent. Your dog will eventually learn and be comfortable with their new bed.
Familiarity and contentment
Tasty Tips
Your dogs' walking routine is likely to change so it may be worth taking out the buggy before the baby arrives so your dog gets used to it. It is also a good idea to change the pace of your walk to match how you would expect to walk with your baby.
It's a good idea to let your dog go into the babies' room before the happy event so that they get used to all of the new baby smells and things in there, especially if the room was somewhere that your dog used to spend a lot of time.
Introductions need to be calm with your new little one and your dog. Keep your dog on the lead and let them have a little sniff and just sit by the baby. All good behaviour should be rewarded with praise.
Never leave your dog alone with your baby and just keep observing behaviour until you are confident that your dog has become comfortable.
New Babies are a big adjustment for everyone including your pets. With just a little bit of help, even a jealous dog will adapt and continue to be a good, sociable companion for the household.
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