Introducing a dog to a newborn baby

With proper preparation, getting to know the dog and the newborn should not create any problems. Of course, the birth of a child is always an exciting event, but in some cases the dog may not share your enthusiasm.

Everything changes

Once you bring your newborn baby home, your life will change. This will inevitably change the life of your dog. She is used to your full attention, and now, although you will not do it consciously, your attention will be completely focused on the baby.

Some animals adapt quickly and take on a protective and guardian role, while others are slower to respond and need some help to get comfortable in their new family environment.

One potential problem is the bed. If your dog sleeps in bed with you, arrange for him to find another comfortable place to sleep. Find something that will remind her of you and put it in a new place so she feels safe and happy. Sometimes changes can take up to several weeks, but their implementation should be consistent. Your dog will eventually get used to and feel comfortable in the new bed.

Close acquaintance and satisfaction

Your pet’s walking routine is likely to change as well, so it’s worth buying a stroller before your baby arrives so your dog gets used to it. It is also a good idea to slow down the pace of your walk to match the walking pace with your child.

You should allow the dog to enter the nursery before the happy event so that he gets used to all the smells and things for the newborn, especially if he has spent a lot of time in this room before.

Acquaintance of the baby with the dog should take place in a calm atmosphere. Keep your pet on a leash, let him sniff the baby for a bit and just sit next to him. Any form of good behavior should be rewarded with praise. Bad behavior, such as growling or tugging on the leash, requires a severe reprimand.

With a firm command, force the dog to sit and sit until he calms down, this will allow the pet to switch to the desired behavior.

Never leave the animal alone with the child and continue to observe its behavior until you are sure that it has become comfortable.

Newborns are a big change for everyone, including your pets. Dog and baby eventually become friends. With a little help, even a jealous dog will adapt and remain a good and outgoing companion for the whole family.