Prepare Your Dog for a Newborn Baby Joining the Family

Meta Description: Dogs react differently to a new baby in the house. Learn what to expect, how to prepare, and introduce your pet to the newborn to make sure everything goes well.

Dogs are a big part of most families and need to be prepared for welcoming the new baby. Up to now, your pet was probably the center of your attention, but with the baby coming, there will be a big change. 

For a dog, these changes can be very stressful, but if you prepare and introduce your baby to them properly, everything can go smoothly. 

What Kind of Reaction Can You Expect?

Every dog is different, so some of them could simply be happy and accept the baby right away, while others could demand more work. Dogs’ reactions can vary from natural curiosity when they will show interest in getting to know the baby, sniffing them, etc, to protective behavior when becoming alert and attentive as they understand how important that baby is to the family.

On the other hand, some dogs can suffer a lot of stress and anxiety, as the presence of the newborn can be overwhelming and exhausting for them. In those cases, they would start to seek attention or start panting, pacing, or even getting an upset stomach. Make sure you notice their behavior and help them relax; for example, dog probiotics are very helpful when stress and an upset stomach take over.   

When a baby is the center of attention, some dogs can become jealous and express unusual attention-seeking and frustration, while others would be completely indifferent and even ignore the baby situation. Still, monitor your dog’s behavior closely, as you would do in any other new situation your dog is going through. 

First Steps in Preparation

As soon as you know you are expecting a baby, start thinking about preparing your dog for the new circumstances at home. Dogs can usually sense when things are starting to change in human mood and behavior, so they will notice something is going on. 

Your dog will need to get used to the new setting in the space you all share, so start preparing the baby’s room as soon as possible. Decide if the dog will even be allowed into that room, and start setting those boundaries to make your pup adapt to them. 

Take your dog to the vet and do the overall check-up to ensure they are healthy and current on vaccinations. A professional vet can also point out any concerns in your dog’s mental health and warn you if there are any signs of behavior problems.

Train and Prepare Your Dog for the Newborn Baby

• Obedience

If your dog already knows basic obedience, that’s great. However, make sure you practice those skills before the baby comes, as this control it’s going to be important, especially in the baby’s first months. If your dog doesn’t know the commands, maybe it’s a good idea for them to enroll in the class.  

• Where does your dog sleep?

If your dog often sleeps in bed with you, you better start training it to get used to its own bed, as things are going to change when the baby comes. If you’re used to holding your dog a lot or letting it lay in your lap, that will also have to change. Start training your dog to lay on the sofa beside you or make a cozy bed for them near your feet.

• Practice with a doll

Many cases confirm that doll training works with dogs. Getting a life-size baby doll and treating it like you would a real baby can help your dog get used to the new routines. You can also try playing some baby noises from time to time to make sure your pup gets used to those too.  

How to Introduce Your Newborn to Your Pet?

When you first bring your baby home, make sure the dog is calm and relaxed. They should have a long walk or play before they become relaxed and release the excess energy.  

When you first step through the door, have someone else take the baby while you say hello to your dog. The dog should sniff the baby from a safe distance and approach it calmly. If their behavior is good, reward it with a treat. 

As the days go by, gradually allow more interaction between the dog and the baby while you are still in control. Observe and follow the dog’s behavior when they’re around the baby and notice any signs of anxiety or stress. 

Ensure your dog knows the daily routines and never leave it alone with the baby, especially not in the beginning.

Take these steps to prepare your dog for a newborn entering the home before the baby arrives.