Helping Your Dog Adjust To Your New Baby
Expecting parents are understandably concerned about allowing the family pooch access to their soon-to-arrive baby. Some are even convinced that their only option is to give their canine companion away. There’s no need to choose. With a little upfront training, you can make your pooch feel comfortable about the new addition to your family while building the groundwork for a lifelong friendship. Today, I’ll share a few tips for keeping the peace when your newborn arrives.
Enroll In Professional Dog Training
I cannot overemphasize the value of professional obedience training. It can help curb disruptive behaviors such as jumping and biting. Plus, obedience training plays a key role in establishing your position of dominance. Enroll your pooch in classes months before your baby is due. That will give him plenty of time to understand his new role.
Fill Your Home With Baby “Things”
The more familiar your mutt is with the items that babies normally use, the more smoothly he’ll adapt when you finally bring your newborn home. Buy a stroller, crib, high chair, and car seat early. Consider buying baby toys and teaching your dog the difference between them and his own toys.
Another strategy that works well is to play recordings of the noises that a newborn typically makes. Also, as soon as your child is born, bring a blanket home that has his or her scent. Place a small doll inside and leave it on the floor. Each time your pooch approaches to investigate, warn him away.
By exposing your dog to as many of these things as possible, you’ll build a familiarity that will prove valuable when you bring your infant home. Plus remember to reward the dog with Dog Treats for good behavior
The Delicate Nature Of Babies
Even though you instinctively understand that your newborn is delicate and defenseless, your dog may not realize it. He’s going to need guidance in understanding how to approach your infant gently. This is an ideal opportunity to use positive reinforcement in training him to behave properly. In time, your pooch will become protective of your child in the same manner that you are.
Forming A Bond
Continuous exposure to babies has an interesting effect on dogs. Often, if trained properly, they’ll assume the dual responsibility of playmate and protector. As your infant grows older, the friendship she shares with her canine companion will grow stronger. But, that assumes the appropriate measures are taken before your baby is born.
Invest in obedience classes and fill your home with the items your infant will need (i.e. stroller, crib, etc.). Also, develop your mutt’s familiarity with the scents and noises that will surround your newborn. By the time you bring your baby home, your dog will have adjusted to the family’s new addition.
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