Congratulations! You’re having the most wonderful baby! It’s time to prepare everyone to welcome the new baby addition to your family, and especially your dog. The arrival of a new baby to your home is a moment that is full of anticipation and excitement. But, it also signifies the beginning of a new phase in your family particularly for your pet. The process of transitioning is a matter of careful planning and understanding. This is why we offer 10 important tips on what to do when you introduce your pet to your new baby.
This guide is designed to facilitate an enjoyable and smooth introduction that encourages an enthralling relationship between your new family member and your pet. Here are ten suggestions to help your pet to make friends with your new pet to become the best of friends throughout every single moment.
10 Tips to introduce your dog to your Baby
1. Teach your pet to adapt your dog’s behavior
You must ensure that your dog can modify basic commands like Sit, stay, come back and to heel. Be sure to stop any behavior that could cause issues during or after your pregnancy, such as uncontrollable leaping and pawing at your baby bump or your newborn. Include your dog in the obedience category, if he needs an update.
2. Let your dog be exposed to children
Certain dogs aren’t used to children, and kids at any age can be unpredictable, especially children WHO tend to yell at you and loud outbursts and exhibit fast behavior that could be alarming for your dog. Go with your pet to the parks or other places where moms and children gather, so that your dog will be able to be aware of children’s behaviors from a safe distance.
Begin by introducing your dog to more social interactions by asking your friends and family members if you’ll be with strolling with their children, ensuring your dog will be at in a safe distance from running around in the stroller.
3. Let your pup experience toys and scents
The faster your dog is able to adjust to the baby’s toys, such as crib, strollers, baby lotions and toys, the better the reaction to those new items once they’ve entered his space. Bring one of your infant’s blankets from the hospital to introduce the blanket to your pet so your pet will be familiar with the scent prior to when the baby returns home. Follow your dog’s walk next to a stroller that is empty, not securing his leash to it.
Be aware that dogs can be unpredictable, too. The last thing you would like is for your pet to chase after squirrels while in the stroller with your infant inside.
4. Find reliable and trustworthy caretakers for your pet
It is important to arrange for trustworthy family members and friends to provide charge of the pet while you’re in the hospital with your newborn. You can also give bow-wow day care, which could help you for a few of hours every day in the first few weeks of your baby’s arrival. Find a reputable facility with plenty of people to ensure your dog gets sufficient doggy care when you’re there.
5. Give your pet a treat for remaining peaceful
Your dog is eager to greet you when you first fall into place therefore it’s probably a good idea to greet him with the newborn within your grasp. Perhaps he’s had a smell of his baby sister prior to the visit and won’t be awed by the smell. Give your pet for not jumping up on your shoulders while you hold food for your dog by having his favorite delicious treats available.
6. Training (and take it off) your dog
Changes within your home could disrupt your dog’s routine that could lead to some unwholesome behaviour. Make sure your dog is surrounded by healthy distractions such as exercising and toys for chewing. If you’re able, include your dog’s taking care of them from changing diapers and nursing or stroller trips. Talk to your dog while you play with your child so they both receive the love and attention they need.
7. Reduce sib group activity among your pup and your baby
Make sure to clearly label dog and baby zones with security gates, so everyone has their own home. This means that your child will begin to learn how to put down their kip in at peace, while your dog won’t be attracted to chew on toddler toys instead of his own pet-safe ones.
8. Place pet food on the counter
Pet food bowls and water placed on the ground are too tempting for children on trips. As with dogs, babies put everything they eat in their mouths, which makes kibble (a danger of choking) looks delicious. Furthermore, your dog might be a bit territorial about his food and criticize the sibling for taking the food.
9. Introduce your child to gently pet your dog
If you’ve ever seen babies pull your hair, then you’re aware they don’t understand their own strengths. If they’re not taught to be gentle with their pet or gently, they’ll pull too hard on the coat of your dog or tail. They aren’t as gentle as we adults, and they should not attempt to bite at the small hands that are causing fur.
10. Keep your pet and kid safe
Do not let your child or youngster in a secluded area with your dog how well they have a close bond. Unpredictable movements, sound and activity changes can make you nervous and cause harm of them. Kids may cry when something is wrong but dogs are likely to remain still. Watch out for a puppy WHO appears to you or at your infant in a surprising way. It could mean that your dog isn’t comfortable and you need to get rid of them.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of your dog to your baby is a significant occasion that marks an important increase in the size of your family. While it’s thrilling, is not without difficulties. It requires meticulous planning, understanding and lots of patience. But, with a thoughtful method outlined in these 10 important strategies, you can create an enthralling connection between your baby and your pet.
Remember that your pet is an integral member in your home. It may take them a while to adjust to changes in the family as you do. Focus on keeping regularity in their routines and giving them full focus, no matter if for a brief period and recognizing their interactions with their baby. These behaviors will make them feel loved as well as less likely show an anxiety or jealousy.