Babies and Dogs - Tips for a Peaceful Coexistence

If you are a dog owner and expecting a new baby, it is understandable if you have concerns about how the two will get along. Many people have a close bond with their dog, and tend to spend a lot of time with them. Babies take up a lot of time and energy, so it is natural that there will be changes.

Children and dogs tend to get along just fine, often playing together and seeing the other as their best friend. Babies, of course, are far more vulnerable compared to older children.

It is best to start preparing before your baby is born. This can help you spot any problems beforehand, and will allow you to correct these problems.

Training

If your dog still has problems obeying simple commands such as sit and stay, this needs working on. Needs be, see about going to a training class. Whilst puppies learn easier than older dogs, a class can still be of benefit.

Some dogs get very excitable and bark frequently. Try to address this as well. Babies need their rest and so do parents. It would not be pleasant for anyone if the newborn keeps waking up because of noise.

Watch out for other undesirable behaviour, such as your dog jumping up a lot. Try to work on any habits that could cause problems after the baby arrives. Use treats and affection as rewards, so that the dog sees his adjusted behaviour as something positive.

The Nursery

Once you have decorated the nursery, teach your dog that that space is off bounds. It is best to do this before the baby arrives, to avoid any jealousy issues.

Practice

Experts recommend purchasing or borrowing a baby doll, and mimicking parent-baby interaction, such as cradling, talking and rocking. Observe your dogs reaction and ask him to sit still whilst you tend to the baby. This helps the dog practice good behaviour. It is recommended that if your dog behaves well, to reward him with affectionate interaction and a treat, to again build that positive association.

If you do not have any other children, the noise-level in the house will likely change after the baby arrives. This can be a cause of anxiety for your dog. If he is of a gentle and friendly nature, having children of family and friends visit can help your dog adjust to different sounds and activity around the house. You should, of course, supervise this interaction at all times.

It is natural that even with the best intentions, you will have less time to spend with your furry friend once the baby is brought home. To avoid jealousy and stress, slowly change the schedule and stick to it as much as possible. Regular feeding times, regular times for walks, some dimished time spent with your dog but quality time together when you do spend time with him, as well as a good dose of affection, will avoid problems in the future. Because you are changing these patterns beforehand, the dog wont associate it with the baby. This again will help avoid any jealousy.

Once Your Baby is Born

Babies bring with them some different smells. Whilst the mother is in the hospital you could bring home a blanket or baby-outfit that has the newborns scent. Allow your dog to sniff it and become familiar with it. This will help him recognise your baby.

On the day the newborn is brought home, spend some positive time with your dog. It is important that the mother gives him affection, because she has just been away and brought home a new addition to the pack. Showing him love will make him feel reassured.

Introduce your baby and your dog one step at the time. At first, have him on a leash and allow him to watch the baby from a distance. He will probably be curious, wanting to sniff and examine this little bundle, so make sure to reward him for good behaviour and staying where he is.

Repeat this several times, until you feel comfortable that your dog is at ease with the situation. Allow him closer when you feel the time is right, so that he can sniff his new friend. Do not let the two alone unsupervised for a good while, until you are certain it is safe.

The vast majority of dogs love babies and some will even feel slightly parental towards your newborn. If you have taken preparations, there should be no reason for the two not to get along.

And over the years, I am sure that they will become the best of friends.

This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.BabyNameVote.Com/ which is a site for Baby Names.

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