Harger Chihuahuas

Help Your Dog Welcome A New Baby Into the Family

There is nothing more wonderful than to watch than the relationship between your dog and your children. Most dogs adore their human brothers and sisters. However, as with any sibling relationship, there is the possibility for jealousy. So, it is the parents’ job to help ease the dog into the new relationship, to make sure he understands how to interact with the baby and to continue to give him the attention he deserves.

The Introduction

The introduction of your dog to your baby should happen even before the baby comes home from the hospital. You can do this by having someone bring a receiving blanket or piece of clothing that was worn by the baby to the dog. The smell of the baby will be on the blanket or clothing and the dog will be able to get used to the scent. Then when the baby gets home, the baby will already be familiar to the dog.
If the dog is particularly attached to one of the parents, then be sure that the parent is not carrying the baby when the parents and baby come home from the hospital. The dog will be happy to see you after a few days of your absence and you want to make sure that you give your dog a lot of affection before doting on the baby. This will help the dog feel secure and loved instead of confused and left out. When you do hold the baby, make sure to invite the dog over for a sniff and a formal introduction.

The First Few Days

Your dog is likely going to want to help you care for your newborn. While the parent of a newborn is usually grateful for any and all help that is offered, you should exercise care in allowing your dog to be your “helper”. Many dogs take on the roles of cleaner and protector. For example, as soon as you put your baby down on his quilt for some tummy time, your dog starts to lick his face and clean behind his ears. Or, your friends and relatives come over to see the beautiful baby and your easy going dog starts barking and growling as he keeps people away from his new charge.
It is best to curb both behaviors immediately. You should use whatever training method has worked for you and your dog in the past and you should be consistent. For example, if you have successfully treat trained your dog to stop bad behavior in the past, then consider doing it again when he licks the baby’s face or barks at visitors. So, when he licks the baby or barks give him a stern “No!” and when he stops the behavior, give him a treat.

The Coming Months

In the months following the new baby’s arrival, you will be filled with joy at the love your baby has for your dog. If you continue to give your dog the attention he desires and reinforce the rules you establish in your home, then your baby and dog will enjoy a happy life together.

Article by William Beasley of OhMyDogSupplies.com