How to Properly Introduce the Dog to the Baby

If there is a dog in your home who is not accustomed to children and you are expecting your first baby, it is important to introduce your dog to your baby gradually. This introduction should begin even before Mom and baby come home from the hospital.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Introduce the dog to your baby's scent before bringing the baby home. You can do this by bringing home from the hospital a receiving blanket or an outfit the baby has worn. Just set it on a chair for your dog to investigate. When you bring your baby home, the dog will recognize him by scent. The new baby will not be a total "stranger."

2. Even the most gentle of dogs will naturally become excited with the arrival of a baby. Someone should be at home with the dog when mom and baby come home. Have the dog on a leash and don't allow him close to the baby until he has calmed down. The new mom should take a few minutes to give the dog special attention, as he will be a little confused (she left; she's back; what's that she brought with her)?

3. Don't leave the dog alone in a room with your baby until he has become familiar with the strange sounds the baby makes. The dog's curiosity may cause him to become excitable and jump or paw at the baby, or plant some unwanted sloppy kisses on his face.

4. It may take a few days or a few weeks, but soon your new baby will become old news as far as the family pet is concerned.

[dlcass]

on 5/9/2009 This is an excellent article. You presented ideas that I hadn't considered, like bringing the baby's scent home. Thanks.