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Are you worried about how your dog will react to a new baby? Your dog may have been an "only child" for years; the introduction of a human sibling may cause your pet some distress. Read on to learn how to introduce a new baby to your dog.
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Introducing Your Dog to Your New Baby
This video reviews some helpful tips for introducing your dog to your new baby. The expert emphasizes that you make sure your dog has been well trained before the baby arrives. She suggests rubbing baby oil on your skin, and playing recordings of a baby's cries to get your dog ready for the smells and sounds that will come with the baby. She also emphasizes that no matter how much your trust your dog, you should never leave your dog alone with the baby.
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Introduction
In order to make the transition from an only dog family to a family that includes a human baby, you'll need to do some planning and preparation. Visit your vet to ensure all medical concerns have been addressed, and introduce your dog to baby sounds and smells. Plan your homecoming carefully, allowing time for your to greet your pet and introduce him to your new baby. -
Step 1: Visit Your Vet
- Make sure that your pet has a thorough physical exam, and is up to date on all their shots before the baby is born.http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html
- If there are any dog training issues that you haven't dealt with, resolve them during your pregnancy.http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html Making sure your pet can reliably stay in a down position when commanded will make your life simpler after the baby is born.
- Spay or neuter your pet if you haven't done so all ready. Neutered pets generally have calmer dispositions.http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html
Step 2: Prepare for the Baby
- Begin rubbing your skin with baby powder and baby lotion to get your pet used to smells that will come with the new baby.http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html
- Have friends with new babies over to your house to visit. Make sure that you spend time holding and carrying their baby so that your dog gets used to seeing you with a baby.http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html
- If the mother to be is the dog's primary caregiver, it is a good idea to have others take over that role before the baby is born.http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html
Step 3: Bringing the Baby Home
- Before you come home from the hospital. have your partner bring home a blanket with the baby's scent.http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html
- Make sure you take the time to welcome your pet when you come home. If possible, have someone else hold the baby while you greet your pet.http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html
- Keep treats handy for time when you're sitting with or feeding the baby. This will help your pet associate seeing you with the baby as a positive experiencece.http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/introducing_your_pet_and_new_baby.html