When you're having a baby, many people fear their dog's reaction. Will the dog accept the new baby? Is it okay to have the dog around? How can I make sure my dog doesn't get jealous of the baby?
Without knowing the answers to these questions, many people consider finding new homes for their dogs when in fact this is not really necessary. There are actually only a few basic things you need to do to ensure that there won't be any problem between the dog and the baby.
Obedience classes are a great thing to do with your dog during your pregnancy, even if you've had them before. Your dog will get a refresher course and the two of you will enjoy the private time together. Pregnancy is also a good time to train your dog if he/she likes to jump.
Here are some tips for helping your dog get used to the new arrival:
1) Baby's room
You should set up your baby's room along with the crib, the playpen and the toys long before the baby arrives. Allow the dog into the room, and let him/her sniff around and get used to this new room with its new smells. Let the dog sniff the toys, the crib, and everything in the room so there's less curiosity when the baby arrives. It might also be a good idea to play baby crying sounds, so the dog can get familiar with the new sounds that are going to be in the house. Getting a mesh cover for the crib is also a good idea, especially for a bouncy or jumping dog (or even cats.) Let them know, in no uncertain terms, that the crib is off-limits and is not a new comfy dog bed! After the dog has gotten a chance to explore the new nursery, it's best to then keep the nursery off-limits when possible. Keep the door closed even before your baby's arrival. This will help make sure the dog won't associate a closed door with the baby.
2) Expose your dog to other babies
Let the dog start learning social behavior around babies. If you have family or friends with a baby, have them come over to your home for a visit and introduce their baby to your dog. Let the dog gently sniff the baby and, to be safe, keep the dog away from the baby's face. Seeing something so small can be an exciting and/or intimidating experience for a dog. Be gentle with your dog since this experience is new for him. To further help your dog get used to new smells, you might also want to sprinkle a little baby powder around the house before your new baby arrives.
3) When your baby arrives
After your baby is born, bring home from the hospital for the dog to smell. When the big day arrives for your new baby to sleep at home, some formality in introducing your dog and new baby can help. Let your dog sniff the baby, again avoiding the baby's face, and reward the dog for outstanding behavior. Remember to be extra gentle with your dog as this experience is new for him, too.
4) Keep the dog involved
To avoid jealousy, keep your dog involved in your family's activities. Take time to be with your dog one-on-one so s/he knows s/he still has an important place in your family. You can play with your dog when the baby's sleeping or awake. The baby will learn the dog is a friend, and everyone will be happy. Bring your dog along on walks when you're out with the stroller... you'll all appreciate the fresh air!
Cris Walker Roskelley, MFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in helping people get through major life changes. In particular, Cris enjoys helping children deal with divorce, loss, and change. Cris has worked therapeutically with adults, children, couples, families, and groups since 1992 in both brief and long-term counseling. She is a Certified Prepare/Enrich Relationship Counselor and has had extensive training in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
You may visit her website [http://www.crismft.com] to receive the "Top 10 Tips to Survive Your Transition."
