Don’t Forget To Prepare The Dog For The Baby Too!

There is no room for error with dogs and babies so you must start to prepare your dog as early as possible. Like all training, it takes time and patience to see results, so prepare in advance.
Some jealousy is to be expected in the beginning because your dog is so used to being the center of attention, but follow some simple rules and everything will go great.
* Take your dog to your local Veterinarian for a complete checkup a few months before the baby arrives. Worms and parasites can be harmful to your baby so be sure to worm your dog before the baby arrives and at the normal intervals to keep on top of this problem. If your dog is not spayed or neutered, this is also the time to get it done.
* Try to get your dog used to babies by introducing to any of your friend’s or families babies. Always supervise these meets and this will go a long way to making your dog more comfortable around babies.
* Allow your dog to explore the baby’s sleeping, diaper changing areas, and related items such as baby powder, lotions, and diapers to become familiar with the new smells and objects. Apply baby lotion or powder to your hands, for example, and allow your dog to sniff the new smell. Dogs rely on their sense of smell, so familiarity with the new baby smells will help him or her recognize the baby as a part of the family. If possible, allow your dog to smell clothing that your baby has used before you bring the baby home.
* Get your dog used to baby related sounds as well, such as the infant swing, rocking chairs or rattles. Another good idea is to play recordings of baby noises, yes, they actually sell these, or make a recording of a friends baby. When you introduce your dog to these sounds, have him associate them with pleasurable things by giving them love and treats.
* Do not allow your dog to sleep on the baby’s furniture or play with the baby’s toys. Your dog should know that the furniture is not for him or her and should treat it as such. Provide toys for the dog that do not resemble baby toys. A dog may take the toy from the baby’s hand and unintentionally injure the infant.
* If you don’t want the dog in the baby’s room at all, install a barrier that will prevent them from getting in, but will also allow they to see and hear what’s going on. This will make him feel part of the process and feel more comfortable knowing and hearing the new baby sounds.
* Use a baby doll to help your pet get used to the real thing. Carry around a swaddled baby doll, take the doll in the stroller when you walk your dog, and use the doll to get your pet used to routine baby activities, such as bathing and diaper changing.
* Both you and your dog need to always know who is boss. Remember you are the alpha dog and never let your pup think otherwise. Always be vigilant around the baby and dog and always reprimand the dog when he shows any form of jealousy.
In my next article, I’ll cover all the things I recommend for the actual meeting of your new baby. Stay tuned or sign up for my pet tips and tricks e-newsletter found on my website
Alex is a freelance graphic designer & marketing pro with a passion for writing and dogs. She has a long and personal history with dogs and knows what works and what doesn’t when training them. If you liked this article, check out a few of her others, like Does Your Dog Have Separation Anxiety? or Reasons Why You Should Groom Your Dog.
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