How to Introduce Your Dog to Your New Baby

Once it is known that there is a baby on the way, moms and dads-to-be start painstakingly preparing everything for the arrival of their newest family member. However, amidst all the preparations, they often tend to forget how the incoming bundle of joy will affect their family’s other member: their dog!

Many people think dogs are independent, adjusting creatures. However, the addition of a new family member can be a stressful change for your dog too – especially for younger dogs. Help your pet cope with this change and join you in welcoming the baby by following these tips:

Before the arrival of the baby

• About three or four months before the arrival of the baby, start giving your dog scheduled periods of undivided attention rather giving him short bursts of attention throughout the day.
• Make any scheduled changes well in advance, for instance: a change in walk time, getting him used to a dog walker and so on.
• Move your dog’s things out of the area that will become the nursery. Get your dog used to his new play or resting area.
• Play recordings of baby sounds at low volume, slowly increase the volume when your dog starts getting used to these sounds.

• Let the dog get familiar with baby paraphernalia – strollers, swings, noisy toys and so on.
• If your dog has a history of aggressive or anxious behavior around children, make sure you consult a qualified trainer.
• Take your dog to vet for a through check-up and ensure he is clean and well groomed to welcome the baby.

Introducing the dog and the baby

• Before bringing the baby home, bring an article of her clothing or a blanket for your dog to sniff. This may help your dog become familiar with the newborn.
• When the baby actually comes home, have the mom go into the house first to greet the dog, since he’s going to be very excited to see her.
• When you bring the baby inside, do not place baby on the floor/ bed and have the dog come to her. Also, never hold the baby over your dog's head – this encourages jumping.

• Instead, have someone restrain the dog on a leash while you sit on a chair, holding the baby on your lap and covering her head with a hand.
• Talk to your dog in a gentle, normal tone while petting and stroking him for reassurance.
• If the dog does not show any signs of aggressive behavior, you may slowly allow him to sniff (but not lick) your little one.
• Even if all goes well, it’s best to keep your dog on a leash any time he’s around the baby for at least the first three weeks.

After the arrival of the baby

• After three weeks, allow your pet to follow you around as you care for the baby. You may continue to use the leash if necessary.
• Make sure you don’t neglect your pet and offer them treats when you feed the baby.

• Watch out for signs of agitation: nipping, barking excessively, growling, pawing, pinned back ears, unusual soiling incidents, refusal to eat, and so on.
• At anytime, if your pet shows aggression, make him back away with a firm “No” or remove him form the room. Don’t forget to give him a treat when he obeys this instruction.
• Always supervise all contact between the pet and baby at least until the baby is two years old.

Forging a friendship

As you train your pet to respect your baby, you will naturally want to teach your baby to respect the animal too. Show your toddler how to pet the dog gently, avoid poking its eyes, pulling its ears or tail, and so on.

Getting your pet and your baby off to a good start may be a tedious process, but it's well worth the effort. By taking the right steps at the right time, you can help build a safe, happy and wonderful bond between your dog and your child!

Getting your pet and your baby off to a good start may be a tedious process, but it's well worth the effort. By taking the right steps at the right time, you can help build a safe, happy and wonderful bond between your dog and your child!

This article originally appeared on our sister site, beijingkids.

Photos submitted by Sanfine Hospital