Dog and baby: how to introduce?

First of all, take care of raising a dog, if for some reason you have not already done so. Teach her to follow basic commands, if necessary – work with a dog handler or animal psychologist to deal with deviations in behavior (of course, if any). All this must be done as early as possible, so that by the time the baby appears in the house, you already have a well-educated dog that understands and fulfills your commands.

Before the birth of a child, it will not be superfluous to take the dog to a veterinary clinic to make sure that the pet is completely healthy. Also, do not forget about regular treatments for external and internal parasites and annual vaccinations.

Preparing for the meeting

If you plan to change something in the dog’s life with the advent of the child in the house – for example, move it to another room, change the time of walks, or forbid it to climb on the bed, then do it in advance. The dog should not associate any changes (especially unpleasant ones) with the appearance of the baby.

Also arrange all new things in advance so that the pet has time to get used to them.

The first meeting

Dogs feel the mood of their owners, so try not to worry – otherwise this excitement will be transferred to the pet. Let the dog first meet with the mistress, whom she has not seen for several days, then introduce her to the baby. Let the dog sniff the child, but control their interaction – it is best if the pet is on a leash. Praise the dog for its interest and neatness. If she, on the contrary, is not interested in the child, do not insist.

What’s next?

After the acquaintance has taken place, give the dog time to get used to the new circumstances. Remember to give her enough attention so that she doesn’t feel lonely and doesn’t blame the baby for it. The most important thing for a pet at this time is to feel that everyone loves him just the same, that nothing has changed with regard to his owners.