Bringing home your new-born baby is a special and exciting time where you want to minimize your stress levels as much as possible. Many new parents feel anxiety at the prospect of having to introduce their dog to their new-born baby, as even the most well-trained dogs can have surprise reactions to the new family member. We can’t always be certain of how our dogs will respond to change, but we can prepare ourselves ahead of time by following these essential tips:

Gradually Decrease Playtime 

As all parents will know, having a new-born baby is a full-time job. We are no longer able to provide as much attention or playtime for our dogs as we once were, and this is often a major cause of shock and distress for dogs. A way to minimize the impact of the shock is to gradually decrease the amount of attention and playtime you give your dogs a few weeks before your baby is due. This will prepare your dog ahead of time so that they are already accustomed to this new level of attention by the time the baby arrives. 

Take Your Time

Allow your dog to get used to the presence of your new-born baby for a few days before you introduce them more closely. Allow your dog to first get familiar with the new smells, sounds and baby items before introducing them for the first time. Your dog will likely be feeling excited or possibly even uneasy during these first few days, so it’s best to allow them some time to adjust and calm down before meeting baby. 

A Slow Meeting

Even if your dog is well-trained, you may want to have them on a leash when you first introduce them to your baby. Allow them to smell your baby and watch their reactions as the baby cries, kicks or screams. It is important that you invite your dog to meet the baby and that he does so out of his own choosing. You don’t want to force or push the encounter onto your dog. Once your dog has gotten familiar with your baby and the new scents, you can take off the leash. 

Establish Boundaries

Even though you love your furry family members, you will want to create a safe space for baby which is to become a no-pet zone. Establish firm boundaries and let your dog know which parts of your home are reserved for baby only. It is also helpful to create a safe space for your dog to retreat to so that there is a space in the home where they know they can always go to feel safe. For example, you can put a doggie bed in your laundry room and give your dog his own comfy and protected space.

Walk Your Dog

Your dog will be more calm and relaxed around the baby if you allow them to shed any excess energy by taking them for a walk each day. If you don’t have the time to take your dog for a walk after the baby arrives, you can plan ahead of time by asking a friend or finding a dog-walker to walk your dog for you.