Dog meet Baby, Baby meet Dog
Dog meet Baby, Baby meet Dog
When you're expecting a new baby it can be understand that you're nervous about introducing the baby to your dog but there are a few things you can do to prepare for your baby's arrival into your home to avoid any potential problems you may have. You should start your preparations well before the new mother and baby are due home from the hospital to ensure everything is ready for the new arrival.
One of the first things your dog should already have learned is basic obedience training. A properly socialized dog will react safely around an infant or any new situation so it is very important that you begin your dog's training and socialization well before the baby is born.
When training or playing with your dog you should always discourage play biting in the dog. Any mouthing is unacceptable and this will be especially so with a baby in the picture. Make sure you gradually phase out any nipping behavior your dog may be exhibiting.
As you will probably be very busy when the baby arrives, you should begin to gradually reduce the time and attention you give to your dog. When the baby arrives you may not have as much time to devote to your dog and this may result in the dog becoming jealous. By gradually getting your dog used to being given less time and attention you can successfully reduce the chances of your dog becoming depressed or jealous when the baby arrives and you're busy.
Something that is often overlooked when preparing a dog for a baby's arrival is any potential food aggression. Many dogs are protective of their food bowls and an unsuspecting infant may try to play with the dog's bowl resulting in the dog lashing out at the baby. Get your dog used to having his food bowl handled. Dogs can also be protective of their toys so try to phase out any territorial behavior in your dog well before you bring home a new baby.
Introducing your dog to the new baby's scent is another way to prepare your dog. Bring home a blanket that has been used to wrap the baby in to allow Fido to get used to the baby's smell. Allow the dog t smell the blanket and encourage him when he walks away. Ideally you want to encourage calm behavior in your dog in the presence of your baby. Praise your dog profusely if he's calm around your baby and its belongings.
When you bring the baby home make sure you greet your dog warmly and then put him on a leash and allow him to gently sniff the baby. Remain observant and be prepared to remove the dog immediately should he exhibit any unwanted behavior.
Never punish or admonish your dog harshly. Dogs respond better to positive reinforcement and constantly shouting or punishing your dog will only result in a fearful dog. Positive reinforcement will also teach your dog to associate the baby as a positive addition to his home. Praise your dog for good behavior and when he's calm around the baby.
Once life has normalized in the house and the dog is accustomed to the presence of the baby, you should try to get back into your regular routines. Don't neglect your dog and take time out to play with him. You can play with your dog when the baby is napping. Taking your dog for a walk when you take the baby out in a stroller is also a great idea, by doing so your dog will accept the baby as a member of his pack.
Even when your dog is used to the presence of the baby, never leave your baby unsupervised around the dog. Boundaries and limitations should be clearly defined and the dog should be taught not to play with the baby's belongings. Even the best trained dog can react unexpectedly and always monitor your baby when the dog is around. Retiring Baby Boomers And US Economic Challenges 3 Important Benefits Of Quality Wooden Baby Toys Baby Safety Gates To Avoid Unwanted Mishaps Baby Cord: Creating Amazing And Wonderful Lifeline Of Excellence In Recent Times 2.4g Wireless Camera Voice Control Baby Monitoryour Effective Over-responsive Parenting Assistant How To Find The Perfect Baby Bouncer Baby Shower Ideas – Baby Gift Registry Baby Names - Some Interesting Facts 80's Baby Part Deux Cute And Whimsical Spring Outfit Ideas For Your Baby Why Should Parents Of Newborns Consider Cloth Diapers? 3 Top Accessories For Your Baby's Peg Perego Pliko P3 Stroller Babies and kids shoes - Pick a pair for your baby