Dog and Baby

All too often the family dog is taken to an animal shelter because a newborn baby is coming home. There is a fear that the dog will hurt the baby. Many families are able to successfully integrate the dog and newborn baby together. The introduction process takes time and careful planning.

Dog and Baby - Introduction

Your dog has become accustomed to your sole attention. Preparing your dog for the newborn baby's arrival is the best way to avoid problems. Jealousy will naturally surface when your newborn baby becomes the center of attention. Invite your friends, how have babies or young children, to visit your home.  This will help your dog become accustomed to babies. Closely supervise all dog and baby interactions.

Dog and Baby Smells

A major part of a dog's life are smells. Take time to acquaint your dog to the new baby smells before the baby arrives. Put baby lotions and powder on your hands and invite your dog to smell.  Introduce the dog to the baby's room.  Allow your dog to explore all the new equipment, clothes, diapers etc. Familiarity with baby smells will help your dog recognize your baby as a family member.

Dog and Baby Sounds

Another obvious change in your household will be the new baby sounds and noises. The sounds of a baby's cry can be upsetting. The new sounds and movements of an infant swing may create anxieties for the dog, especially if the family is anxious because of the arrival of the newborn child. For this reason, you should introduce these new baby sounds into the household a few months before your child's arrival. This will allow your dog to acclimatize to the new environment.

Dog and Baby - Dog Socialization Techniques

Dog and Baby - Specialized Baby Furniture

Your dog should be given the opportunity to get familiar with the newborn baby's furniture, but not too familiar. Do not allow your dog to get up on this furniture. To do so would invite problems after the baby has arrived. It is harder to train a dog to break a habit, than to prevent a habit from developing.

You need to acquire an expandable baby gate that will keep your dog out of your baby's room when the baby is inside. Your dog should be able to see inside the room so that he does not become apprehensive when unusual or alarming sounds occur. Praise your dog when he comes to notify you that your baby  is crying. This will cause your dog to develop habits to be protective and watchful of the baby.

Dog and Baby - Initial Introduction

If after introducing the new baby sounds and smells you are still doubtful of your dog's initial response, when your baby arrives, leash him until you know for sure how your dog will react. Never ever leave your baby unsupervised with your dog. A baby is unable to push a dog away and the dog could injure the child accidentally.

Dog and Newborn Baby - Slow and Deliberate

The first introduction of your baby to your dog will dictate how your dog responds to your newborn. Make the introduction process slow and deliberate. If your dog reacts aggressively at the introduction of your baby put her in a room to calm down.  After your dog has calmed down reintroduce her to your baby.

When your baby comes home another person should hold the baby while you greet the dog. Remember she was the center of your attentions. You need to set a few minutes aside each day to show your dog you still cherish her. After your initial introduction of dog and baby, allow your dog to sit at your feet while you hold your baby. Provide your dog with treats as appropriate. Your dog needs to see the association between you, your baby and herself as a good positive experience.

Life after the arrival of your newborn will definitely be hectic. Try to get back into your normal routine with your dog as soon as possible. You all should be able to live together as one happy harmonious family.