Introduce baby to the family dog

Good news: the family will grow soon! You are of course in heaven ... but how will your dog react to the arrival of baby?

From the outset, know that there is no reason for things to go wrong: usually, dogs are not jealous, they simply need to get used to the routine of their masters. So, if it is upset, they will need a time of adaptation to take the new place that is granted to them within the family. Of course, the better the animal is prepared, the more this period of adaptation goes well and without a hitch.

Before the arrival of baby

You have everything to gain by preparing your dog before the baby shows his pretty face. So, if you plan to add new bans to the dog (not allowed to enter the baby's room, for example), you should start serving them as soon as possible: this will prevent him from associating the arrival of the baby. infant to these limitations.

In the same vein, try to introduce it to the new material as quickly as possible:

• We prepare the room before the arrival of baby, most of the time. That being said, if you prefer that your dog does not enter, ban him right away. Privilege the "no" and rewards, at a gate or a closed door.
• Baby toys can be very tempting for your dog! Teach him immediately that he must not touch it, making it feel, and rewarding it when he does not lick it, or put it in his mouth.
• If you want your dog to walk with you and baby, get used to the stroller, tucking it in and letting it feel. And when you walk together, remember that it is strongly discouraged to attach the leash to the stroller.
• Once you arrive, you will probably have less time to give your dog. Without letting go, get used to spending time alone and give it a little less attention. The shock will be less important.

The arrival of baby
Before making the official presentations between your pet and baby, it is often advisable to make a piece of clothing that the infant will have worn at the maternity ward, such as their first cap or blanket. Also, have someone feed and walk your dog before you arrive. That way, he will be calmer and more willing to meet the child.

Once all the family is together, let the dog come to the baby: do not force things. Introduce the infant gently and let the animal sniff it: depending on your dog's reaction, let him feel the baby as he approaches his legs or feet - never the face. During this time, stroke the animal, talk to him and congratulate him: the context of the presentation must be pleasant. It is strongly recommended to put the dog on a lead during the first presentation, since we never know exactly what will be his reaction. In this way, whoever holds the leash can react if necessary.

Short…

• When both your child and your dog seem to be in good shape (the child is not crying, the dog is calm), take your baby in your arms.
• First, require your dog to keep a reasonable distance from you and to sit or lie down. Gradually, invite him to approach. First let your child feel at a distance and, if things go well, lean toward him.
• If your dog gets excited, ask him immediately to sit down or lie down. Your spouse can intervene if the animal is on a leash.
• When he is finally calm, approach him, or invite him to come. Do not push your dog when he feels the baby: this will create distrust in him. So let him feel the baby, without letting him lick it.