Baby and Dogs

You may have had dogs (or a dog) for years now, and suddenly there is going to be an addition to the house – your new baby. Most people wonder what they should do about the arrival of a new baby and their dogs – should they find a new home for their dogs? Or is it ok for the dogs to be around baby?

There aren't really any hygenic issues, or any issues at all, to worry about. But there are a few things you can do to ensure the transition for your dog (or dogs) goes smoothly. The only time you need to really be concerned is if your dog is unsocialized and aggressive. However, any problems with jumping etc. should be trained out during pregnancy. It is also good to know that the dog has an awareness of the baby while it is still in the womb.

If your dog has not done much training or obedience classes, the time has come for you to do it. You will find it of great advantage to your family, especially when baby starts crawling around the house and even starts to play with the dog as a toddler. But here are some quick tips to help you help your dog to get used to the idea of baby:

Firstly, it's good to set up the crib, the toys, the playpen and the room for your baby well in advance. This allows for your dog to get used to the room. Let the dog smell the toys, and hang around the room so that it isn't all new to him / her when baby arrives. You can also play baby crying noises so that dog can get used to the sound.

Secondly, If you have friends or family with a baby, have them come around with their baby so your dog can get used to the idea of a baby and understand how to socialize correctly with them. You can also sprinkle baby powder around so that your dog can get used to the smell and the scent of baby.

It's also a good precautionary measure to get a mesh cover for the crib so that a bouncing or jumping dog can't get inside. If they ever do, you should give them a starn warning or even a hiding so they know that the crib is not where they belong (this is not another comfortable sleeping space for them!) This is also very effective for cats.

However, it is probably better to keep the nursery a pet free zone and close the door when possible, even before baby arrives, so that the dog doesn't associate the closed door with baby (and therefore, is far less curious about baby.)

Once baby is born, take a blanket from the hospital that baby was sleeping in (or has baby smells) so that the dog can get used to the new scent that will be in the home. Once baby arrives into the home, have a bit of a formal introduction between baby and the dog. Be sure to reward the dog for his great behaviour with baby.

Make sure you remember to keep your dog involved with the family at all times – so play with the dog when baby is asleep or awake, especially to prevent any jealousy from occuring.