This article discusses how to introduce your dog to the new baby.
First, make sure your dog is introduced to any new equipment in the portions of the house he or she has access to. Yes, that musical toy and the bouncy seat are just adorable, but they are strange and even frightening to a more timid pet. Once your baby is born, bring home a blanket that has the child's scent on it. Talk to your dog as if you were introducing a friend of the family. Your dog will get used to the baby's scent. Some people tape the baby's cries and play the tape in a bassinet or crib so the dog becomes accustomed to the sound. When the baby comes home, your dog will not be overwhelmed by all the new sights and sounds.
Next, be sure your dog knows and consistently obeys basic obedience commands. It is very important that he knows the sit, stay, come and down commands. An overexcited dog that does not obey could accidentally injure your baby.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that you should not neglect your pet during this hectic time. Some special treats or an extra long walk are good ways to let your dog know you haven't forgotten him or replaced him with your baby.
With a new baby comes a steady stream of visitors to admire your new arrival. Even if your dog is not timid, don't forget to give him his own private area where he can retreat from all the action. Fear and anxiety are the most common reasons a dog will react badly to a situation.
When you bring your baby home from the hospital, someone who has been with the dog during the new mom's hospital stay should hold the baby while the new mom greets the dog and gives him treats. This way, the dog won't be scolded for jumping up to welcome the new mom home while she is holding the baby. Don't immediately put the dog and baby close together to allow the dog to smell the new arrival. One person should have the dog and another should have the baby. Introduce them gradually. If the dog begins to get excited, back off. You may not be able to allow the dog close to the baby for several days. Ideally, first introductions should be made through a safety gate and the dog may need to be leashed.
Finally, once your new arrival comes home, always make sure someone is in the room with your dog and infant. Most dogs are extremely devoted to the new baby, but some do attack infants. Dogs don't always consider infants to be people. They don't walk, talk, or act like people the way toddlers do. If your dog chases and attacks small animals and is very aggressive with other pets, he may act the same with your infant. Realistically think about your dog's behavior traits. If he is very aggressive, you should consider talking to a professional trainer or animal behaviorist and you may have to crate him or kennel him until your baby is older.
