3 minute read
Preparing Your Fur Babies for Your Human Baby’s Arrival
By Megan Mayes
My husband and I were overjoyed to welcome our first child, Simon, this past summer! And in preparation we planned for family members that might have been in for a shock. Our two dogs, Freddy and Billy, were the babies in our house for more than two years. We wanted to set our dogs up for success and a future loving relationship with our son. Introducing a baby to established family pets, especially a first child, requires preparation and some advice from both dog and baby experts. We took several helpful steps and all of the “boys” are getting along wonderfully!
A good place to start is with general obedience training. Simple commands like “sit” and “stay” will go a long way to managing how your dog interacts with your baby. If you and your dog need a refresh on the basics, enroll in training classes during your pregnancy. This also gives you the chance to spend extra time with your fur baby, giving them your undivided attention!
While you are setting up your nursery, think about where your dog will be going in the house when he needs a break. If the normal spot is your lap, consider creating a cozy corner instead. Put a bed and blanket, a toy box, and maybe a treat container. You want somewhere that your dog can see as their own happy place to go when you are busy or the crying starts to stress them.
Many books and websites recommend baby doll training and crying exposure. As you are bringing home baby shower gifts, leave out things like strollers, car seats, and swings. Carry around a baby doll and practice putting it in places you will have the baby with the dog around. Play videos of baby cries so your dog can get used to the sound. The goal with this training is to expose your dog to new environments in your home, with a focus on rewarding calm behavior.
Plan to have a multiphase introduction with your new family unit. Have someone bring a baby blanket home early so your dog can become familiar with the baby’s scent. When you return from the hospital, greet your dog first without the baby, because they have missed you! Allow them to get out some excitement and energy, then introduce the dog and baby in a calm and quiet environment. Although you may be feeling your own stress about this first meeting, try to remain encouraging. If your dog picks up on your stress, they may form a negative first impression. Reward your dog for good behavior and curious but calm interactions.
Finally, as much as you are going to be learning, changing, and adjusting to your new life with a baby, remember that your dog is doing the same. Changes in behavior and even acting out are signs that your dog is trying to cope. Make sure to give them time to adjust, positive reinforcement, and as much time as you can spare. Your heart will be expanding significantly with the birth of your child, so don’t forget to spread some love to the fur babies too!
Resources: whattoexpect.com, parents.com, akc.org
