Bringing a newborn baby home can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience for new parents, especially if they have a furry friend at home. Dogs are known to be man’s best friend, but they may not always understand the arrival of a new family member. In this article, we’ll explore some tips on how to handle a newborn and dog at home.
- Introduce your dog to your baby before bringing them home – Before bringing your newborn baby home, introduce your dog to the baby’s scent by bringing home a blanket or clothing item that has the baby’s smell on it. Let your dog sniff it, and give them praise for showing interest in the new scent. This will help them associate the baby’s scent with positive feelings.
- Gradually introduce your dog to the baby – When bringing your newborn home, keep your dog on a leash and gradually introduce them to the baby. Let them sniff the baby while being supervised, and reward them with treats for good behavior. This process may take some time, so be patient and allow your dog to become comfortable around the baby.
- Establish boundaries – It’s important to establish boundaries for your dog around the baby. Designate certain areas of the house as off-limits to your dog, such as the baby’s nursery or play area. Also, teach your dog basic obedience commands such as “stay” and “leave it.”
- Supervise interactions between your dog and baby – Never leave your dog and baby alone together, even for a moment. Always supervise interactions between your dog and baby, and intervene if necessary. For example, if your dog is showing signs of anxiety or aggression, it’s best to remove them from the situation.
- Provide plenty of exercise and attention for your dog – It’s important to continue providing plenty of exercise and attention for your dog, even with the new addition to the family. This will help prevent them from feeling left out or neglected, and reduce the likelihood of negative behavior.
- Consider hiring a professional trainer or behaviorist – If your dog is showing signs of anxiety, aggression, or other negative behavior around the baby, consider hiring a professional trainer or behaviorist to help address the issue. They can provide personalized guidance and training to help your dog adjust to the new family dynamic.
In conclusion, bringing a newborn baby home with a dog can be a challenging experience, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth transition for everyone involved. By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and happy environment for both your baby and furry friend.
