The arrival of a baby is one of the most beautiful and significant events in the life of a couple.How will the dog react? Will he accept the baby? Will we have as much time to take him out every day? So that the cohabitation between the future baby and your dog goes as well as possible, we are going to give you some advice in order to prepare this change of life.
baby and dog
PREPARE THE ARRIVAL OF THE BABY WITH HIS DOG
Most couples living with a dog have their own habits and changing them can be upsetting for your dog, who may not take it well. You should therefore proceed gradually so that your dog gets used to these changes. You can change the living environment by letting your dog discover the baby’s future room, or by putting a crib or a stroller in your living room so that he can get acquainted with these unknown objects.If your dog used to sleep on your bed or couch, you can put a comfortable bed in your living room so that your dog will gradually get used to sleeping in a different room than the baby. Your baby may also sleep in the same bed as his parents at first and the dog should not be in the middle. Your dog was probably the center of attention before the baby arrived, and you’ll have to teach him to have his habits slightly changed.
– You can hire a pet sitter or a family member or friend to take the dog out. This will give you some relief if your schedule doesn’t allow for it while everyone finds their place once the baby arrives. Your dog will have become acquainted with his new walker and his regular walks will therefore be maintained and still be as enjoyable.
– You can also get your dog used to the sounds of a baby by showing him videos with baby sounds and cries, at first at a low volume, while giving him appetizing treats so that he associates this sound with something positive. Then gradually increase the noise.
– Teach your dog to go to his place in his basket. This is an important detail so that your dog isn’t always behind you when you’re taking care of baby. You can associate the basket with something pleasant by giving him a treat to chew on when you ask him to go in.
– Take your dog on walks with the stroller (before the baby arrives) to get him used to walking with this different tool. You can also hire a dog trainer to teach your dog to walk on foot and to have a good recall when needed. This way, your future walks with baby and your dog will be enjoyable for everyone.
baby and dog
TO MAKE THE FIRST PRESENTATIONS BETWEEN THE BABY AND YOUR DOG
Now that your dog has become accustomed to the different and new objects of life, and that your habits have gradually changed, it is necessary to make the introductions and that they are positive so that the first association is well perceived.When you are at home, take an item of clothing previously worn by the newborn and let your dog sniff it at his ease while encouraging him vocally.Also be calm in your behavior so as not to excite your dog. The goal is for the meeting to be normal and not overly emotional.You can make the first introduction with your baby in a safe playpen and warmly reward your dog when he approaches and/or is interested in the child.
If the child growls, do not punish him. Your dog has the right to be surprised by this new individual who is different from what he was used to. Let him back up and move away if he wants to. And take the time it will take, it can take several days and this is quite normal.Remember to deworm and vaccinate your dog to ensure the safety of your baby, to avoid the transmission of parasites.Finally, to conclude, do not leave your baby and your dog alone, even if your dog is the nicest in the world. You can trust your dog completely, but he is still an unpredictable animal and it is better to be preventive.
Your dog is a part of your home, so don’t isolate him when a child arrives. With a few habits in place and patience, you’ll be able to find a good balance with your whole family.
baby and dog
