The first rule of introducing your dog to a
new baby is that it must be a gradual process. Dogs, need time to adjust to a new family
member. When you learn a child is on the way, review basic obedience skills daily with
your dog so that it will reliably and consistently obey you. The commands to sit, stay and
go are essential to control your dog and give direction for desirable behavior.
A curious and affectionate pet can unintentionally harm a baby. A child may be
accidentally scratched or even dropped when a friendly dog jumps up on you to investigate.
Keep your pet's nails well trimmed. If your pet has any type of behavior problem, resolve
it now while your life is still relatively uncomplicated.
When the baby comes home from the hospital, it is probably best to isolate him or her from
your pet for the first few days. To minimize excitement, greet your pet calmly without the
baby there. Though new parents are often tired, you should make extra effort to spend
"quality" time with your faithful pet.
Make more interaction between you and your pet when the baby is present, minimizing
attention at all other times. In this way, your dog is unlikely to view the baby's
presence negatively, which could result from reduced owner attention.
When you are ready to introduce the dog and baby, have an adult hold the pet on a short
leash in a controlled position. while another adult holds the baby. Proceed slowly over
several days, bringing the dog (as long as it is well-behaved) closer to the baby.
Keep the dog under control with a reassuring and relaxed manner. After several weeks of
consistently successful sessions, cautiously allow your dog off its leash. No matter how
well you trust your dog, an infant should not be left alone with it or any pet for that
matter.
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