Introducing a Newborn to a Dog and Vice Versa

Introducing a newborn to a dog and vice versa can be stressful for many people. You won’t know how your dog will react when he sees the baby for the first time. A dog which has been treated as a child in the family may feel replaced and rejected if the surprising introduction is not handled properly. You need to prepare for the introduction early even before the baby is born.

Let your dog explore and smell your baby’s room including the crib or bassinet where the baby will sleep in when you bring her home. Allow your pet to smell the baby’s toys but correct the dog if he attempts to pick up the toys.

You may buy a stuffed baby doll and carry it around like a real baby a few weeks before the baby is born. Rock the doll and kiss it so he will realize that what you’re holding is very special to you. Don’t let the dog play with the baby doll so he will know he’s not allowed to get too close to that special thing.

After the baby is born, bring home a blanket that she has used at the hospital. Allow your dog to sniff the baby’s blanket so he will be familiar with the baby’s scent. Getting the attention of the dog, place the blanket in the crib or the bassinet so he will understand which part of the room the baby will stay most of the time.

Now is the time for introducing a newborn to the dog and vice versa. Before you bring the newborn in the house for the first time, make sure to leash your pet. Calm your pet so he sits in a down position when your baby is brought in. Hold him back and then carefully bring the baby close to him. Let him sniff the newborn’s toes and fingers so he can associate the blanket’s scent to the new addition to the family.

When the newborn is brought into their room, one member of the family should pay attention to the pet. When he behaves well when the baby is around, praise him. Don’t drive him out of the room or push him away. This can cause the dog to make a negative association with the newborn.

Never neglect your dog. Spend as much quality time alone with him as possible and continue to take him for walks. He will continue to feel needed and wanted when he won’t see changes in how you treat him. Allow the dog to continue to smell the baby in the coming weeks and interact with her until your pet becomes your baby’s little furry friend. It’s very important not to leave your dog alone with your baby.

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT, DO NOT LEAVE YOUR DOG ALONE WITH YOUR BABY AT ANYTIME.