If you’re a dog owner who has a baby on the way, careful preparation makes all the difference! The arrival of a little one is an exciting but uncertain time for the whole family – and that includes your dog. Our advice can help you prepare in the best way.
We know how demanding a new family member can be, but it’s important to remember that your dog still needs time, attention and connection with the people they love. By taking the right steps early on, you can help your dog adjust to this change and ensure their needs continue to be met. Not only that, but you’ll also help to build a safe, positive relationship between your canine companion and the newest member of your household from day one.
By making some preparations in advance you can help your dog get used to the much-anticipated new arrival. It’s important to make time for your dog so they don’t feel pushed out when the baby arrives. You’ll still need to walk and play with them. Babies can be all-consuming, so if you’re struggling for time get a friend, family member or dog walker to help you out.
If there are going to be rooms that your dog will be excluded from when the baby arrives, prepare them for that early on by introducing baby gates as soon as you can.
Make sure your dog is well trained. Work on their lead training so you’re able to walk your dog and a pushchair. Practice useful commands such as sit, stay and leave. How to train your dog.
Your dog may find everyday baby situations hard – screaming, crying or arm waving can trigger an unexpected reaction in your dog. If you feel your dog may be worried by the noise of the baby crying, try getting them used to the noise before you have the baby. Search the internet for soothing sounds and playlists to prepare your dog for the noises a baby will make, including crying and children playing.
Let your dog meet and sniff the new arrival. Try and quell your nerves as he might sense this. Remember, you’re in control. Be calm but set boundaries: the baby is not for nibbling, licking or jumping on. Be careful, but not overly so; you know your dog and how much you can trust him.
Include your dog in the process of adjustment. If they seem restless or worried when you’re feeding the baby, ask them to sit or stay beside you and offer them toys or treats. This way, they come to associate the experience as a good one.
Keep the dog and baby separate at all times, but they need to be aware of one another. Never leave a young child unsupervised with a dog: no one has eyes in the back of their head.
Finally, be aware of potential hazards. For example, don’t leave your baby in a high chair or cot where your dog could knock it over.
Even with the best preparation, some dogs can still find the transition harder than others. It’s important to know the signs that your dog may be feeling anxious or overwhelmed, so you can step in before the situation escalates.
Signs of stress to watch out for include:
If your dog shows any of these signs, don’t punish them – they’re only communicating that they’re feeling uncomfortable. Not allowing them to express that can make things less safe. Instead, give your dog space to move away and take the pressure off. Make sure they always have a quiet area they can retreat to that’s out of reach of the baby.
If you’re concerned about your dog’s behaviour around your baby, seek help sooner rather than later. A qualified dog behaviourist can help you tackle the root cause and enable your dog to feel more settled. It’s also a good idea to speak with your vet, as anxiety in dogs can sometimes have an underlying physical cause.
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