When adding a baby to a previously childless
household with a dog it is advisable that parents
prepare their dog for the new arrival. This article
assumes that the dog has been socialized with children
and likes them. If your dog hasn’t been around
children, or has shown discomfort or aggression towards
children it is best to consult a qualified professional
trainer.
My first recommendation for expecting parents is to
work on reliable off-leash control. Off-leash is
extremely important, as it is not convenient to have to
control a dog with a leash while holding, nursing or
otherwise caring for an infant. Useful commands, for
example, are sit, down, stay and back-up.
Many times the mistake that is being made is that
the dog (because he is unruly), is being kept away when
the parents interact with the baby, and then showered
with attention when the baby is away or asleep. This
often leads to problems, because the dog learns that he
is not welcome when the baby is around, and he gets
attention when the baby is not. Would you think that
dog is going to like the newcomer? Not very likely.
This is where your off-leash control comes in. The
dog can be included and get attention while the parents
interact with the baby. He can be in a down-stay nearby
when the baby is nursing or diapers are changed. He can
be asked to back up when he gets in the way. He can sit
next to the parents holding the baby and getting pets
and praise for that.
It is extremely important to make an effort to give
the dog attention when the baby is around, and not when
the baby is away or asleep, so the dog can make a
positive association with the new family member.
If new or expecting parents plan to go for walks
with the dog and a stroller, it is important that the
dog learns to walk on a loose leash next to the
stroller. This should be practiced with the stroller,
but without the baby until the dog has learned this new
skill.
Expecting parents should plan ahead and implement
any changes in the dog’s routine due to the baby,
before the baby actually arrives. For example, if the
dog will be allowed in the baby’s bedroom while the
baby is being cared for, one should practice in that
room, for example for the dog to lie in a comfortable
spot, while the parents busy themselves with the baby’s
bed or sit in the chair that will be used for feeding
or nursing. If the dog will not be allowed into the
baby’s bedroom, than that room should be off-limits
to him long before the baby arrives.
Never leave dogs and children together unattended;
it’s the parents' responsibility to keep everybody
safe. Teach your dog appropriate behavior around
children and teach your children to treat pets gently
and with respect.
