Blog How to Prepare Your Dog for Baby’s Arrival
Having a baby is an exciting time in your life, but it is also a major adjustment—for both you and your dog. The good news is that prepare your dog for baby’s arrival is easier than you may realize. The trick is to start preparing your pup early so he has more time to adjust
Confirm He Knows the Basics
Start by confirming that your dog knows basic commands, such as sitting and staying. If you need help teaching them to him, take advantage of our dog training in West Palm Beach.
Teach Your Dog the New Rules
If you plan on changing any of the rules your dog has gotten used to, start doing so as early as possible. For example, maybe your dog won’t be allowed on the couch anymore once the baby comes. If he was allowed up before, this can be a major change for him and can take some time for him to understand. Starting early gives him more time to adapt.
This also applies to blocking off access to areas the dog won’t be allowed to go into. For example, if he isn’t going to be allowed into the nursery, block it off well before the baby comes.
Introduce Him to Baby’s Sights and Sounds
You don’t want your dog’s first introduction to your baby and her gear being when she comes home from the hospital. This will be a shock, and you can’t be sure how your pup will react.
Instead, part of preparing the dog for a new baby is putting out the baby stuff ahead of time. Start by just placing the stroller in the living room. Then, when your dog gets used to it, maneuver it around the space. Do this with other baby items as well, such as the baby swing.
This is also the time to play some recordings of baby sounds. Remember to play happy and sad sounds, including crying, giggling, and more.
Introduce the Smell Once Baby Is Born
Once your baby has arrived, introduce your pup to her smell before you bring her home from the hospital. This is as simple as bringing a blanket or onesie your baby has worn at the hospital home. Wait for a time that your dog is calm and have him sniff the item.
The First Introduction
After all of the effort you put in preparing your dog for a new baby, you want to make sure the first introduction is safe and calm. Before you introduce your dog to his new human BFF, have someone take him on a long walk. This way, he will be tired and more relaxed. Don’t forget to have plenty of treats on hand as well.
After the Baby Is Home
Once your baby is home and everyone knows each other, make sure not to neglect your dog. Ensure there’s somewhere he can go to get away from the baby when he wants to. And make sure you still give your dog the attention he needs. If you’re concerned about not being able to play with him as much as you used to, consider VIP dog daycare in West Palm Beach to let him burn off some extra energy.
Conclusion – Prepare Your Dog For Baby Arrival
Having a new baby in the house will be a big adjustment for your dog. But if you start getting him used to the sights, sounds, and other changes associated with your new addition early on, it should go smoothly.
Sources:
https://moderndogmagazine.com/articles/getting-ready-baby/133718
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dogs-and-babies