How to Introduce Your Pet to Your Babies

How to Introduce Your Pet to Your Babies

Introducing a newborn baby to your pets is important for your baby’s well being and safety. It is always a good idea to start preparing your canine companion for the arrival of your baby early in your pregnancy. Starting early will yield better result; however, it is never too late to train your pooch to get along with kids. In this article, I’ll suggest you some easy but effective tips to introduce your pet to the new born babies. This article comprises some useful tips that you should follow before and after child birth.

Before birth of baby

Ø  When you find out you are expecting, make some conscious efforts to decrease the amount of attention gradually. Rather than short burst of attention throughout the day, try to give your pet undivided attention for longer period.

Ø  Give basic obedience training to your dog. Some dog behaviors like jumping up to greet you at the door may become an issue while pregnancy.

Ø  If your pet does not know how to stay, sit, lie down, or come when called, you should teach him to do so. 

Ø  Give your pet exposure to kids. For this, you should take your pet to the park on regular basis and see how your pet reacts to babies from distance. If anybody has kid in a stroller, you can ask for walking near him/her. In this way, your pooch gradually acclimates himself for the sound and sight of kids.

Ø  Let your pet smell various baby products like baby lotion and powder

After birth of baby

Ø  If your baby is born in a hospital, you should bring items that contain scent of your baby, such as burp clothes before bringing your baby to home. While you are holding the item, it is important to set clear boundaries and challenge the dog to sniff from a distance. In this way, you are telling your pet that this item is yours and then giving your dog permission to sniff.

Ø  You have to teach your dog that there is an invisible barrier between him and baby that he should not cross without your permission. Gradually, you should allow your pooch to sniff and explore certain things in your room with your supervision. Then decide when your pet needs to leave and repeat this task a few times before baby arrives. This task will let your pet know that the room belongs to his pack leader and should be respected.

Ø  When you bring your baby to home, introduce your dog to baby calmly. Before meeting, it is good to drain all the energy of your pet through a long walk. Upon entering to home, your pooch will instantly know the new scent of baby in the house. As you have already introduced this scent to your pet, he will be familiar to this scent. Make sure everybody remains in calm state while introducing your baby to the dog. Gradually, your pet should be allowed to get closer to the baby but it should happen under your strict supervision. Finally, you should keep in mind that dogs need care too, therefore, don’t forget your dog.

 Final Words:

I am sure if you follow above mentioned tips, you will be able to introduce your dog to your baby effectively and make your pet best friend of your baby. It is always good idea to bring those dog breeds that are friendly with kids, as these dogs have inherent abilities to remain playful with kids. Also, you should never leave your pet alone with kids.