Bringing a baby home is a major change not only for parents but also for the family dog. A pet that has been accustomed to receiving attention and following familiar routines may need time to understand the new sounds, smells and changes that come with a newborn.
A recent USA Today guide offers practical suggestions for helping dogs adjust before and after a baby arrives.
Prepare your dog before the baby arrives
Parents can gradually introduce changes to their dog’s routine before the baby comes home. This can include adjusting walking, feeding and sleeping schedules so that the changes do not happen suddenly after the birth.
Allowing dogs to become familiar with baby-related sounds and objects can also help. Parents can introduce items such as a cot, pram and baby products while maintaining a calm environment.
Rewarding relaxed behaviour can help dogs associate these new experiences with something positive.
Let the first meeting be calm
When the baby comes home, parents can give the dog an opportunity to approach gradually rather than forcing an interaction.
Keeping the first meeting calm and controlled can help prevent the animal from becoming overwhelmed. Parents should also continue giving the dog attention and maintaining as much of its familiar routine as possible.
Never leave a baby and dog unsupervised
Even a gentle and well-trained dog should not be left alone with a newborn. Parents should supervise all interactions and give the dog a separate, comfortable space where it can retreat when it needs quiet time.
With preparation, patience and consistent supervision, families can help their pets adapt to the arrival of a baby while creating a safer environment for everyone.