A new addition to the family is always an exciting time, but it may draw mixed reactions from your family pet. As founder of LeashesandLovers.com, I strive to strengthen the bond between owner and pet, and those around them.
So what about bringing your new baby home? Will your dog bark at the idea? I’ve always had pets in my life so my story starts with the startling fact that I married a man who just “wasn’t into dogs.” (People can change!) Then after years of marriage, together we selected our 1st – a retired greyhound, Shiraz. I think it’s important not to force a dog onto a family member. And, because we made this decision together, this dog improved our relationship on so many levels.
For one, Shiraz helped fill that void of a “baby” as it just never seemed like the right time to have one. Secondly, in so many ways, a dog’s and a baby’s needs are really quite the same. There are feedings, shelter, clothing, poo duty, cuddling, loving, bathing, etc. After having Shiraz a few years, we decided to take the big plunge. But, did we really want to end our freedom as my parents lead me to believe! Then, nothing happened. So while we waited, we adopted another greyhound, Buffett. Jump ahead to today, two children, and two greyhounds – we have become quite the happy pack.
Here are my 10 tips as to how we handled a baby to the pack.
Before the baby arrives:
1. Get the dog acquainted with the smells and sounds of a baby. Open baby items like lotions and shake a rattle.
2. It’s a great time to take your dog to the vet for a vaccination against parasites and other pertinent shots.
3. Visit a friend with a baby so your dog is familiar with infant cries and smells.
While at the Hospital:
4. Bring a couple of baby’s items home prior to its arrival for the dogs to sniff
Arriving Home:
5. If possible, have someone else carry in the new baby while you greet the dog to prevent jealousy and create a positive first time interaction.
6. Allow the dog to greet the baby on its own without forcing or calling the dog over.
7. Create positive interactions between the dog and the baby such as being happy and praising the dog’s good behavior with words and a treat.
8. Avoid negative associations between the dog and the baby such as yelling “no” when the dog sniffs or goes near the baby.
9. Don’t leave the baby and dog together unattended.
10. I learned this the hard way, don’t leave a dirty diaper within your dogs reach.dog rope toys
