Preparing your dog for the arrival of a baby

The impending arrival of a baby can bring great joy and anticipation. However, for some dog owners there may also be an added sense of trepidation about how their dog will react towards the new family member.
 
Rest assured, dogs are excellent when it comes to adapting to new situations, if they are given the time. So, to help things run smoothly, preparations need to begin many months before the baby actually arrives.
 
After making sure that your dog is receiving qualified veterinary treatment for any long-standing ailments, and is fully vaccinated and up to date with worming and flea treatment, you need to consider the changes that will take place when the baby arrives. You can prepare your dog for some of these changes by putting new furniture, such as cots and high chairs in place, and fitting baby gates to keep him out of ‘no go’ areas.
 
If your dog has any behavioural issues, such as pulling on the lead or not coming back when called, then these should be addressed immediately before the baby arrives.
 
It is important to begin to develop a strong positive association in your dog towards baby noises, using a specially created audio CD. You can also ask friends or relatives for any worn items of baby clothing, and leave them around your house, to allow your dog to get used to the smell of a baby.
 
Finally, it is useful to begin carrying a baby doll around the house, acting out all the things that would be done with a real baby. This allows your dog to get used to seeing you undertake baby-related activities, and gives you an opportunity to reward him for appropriate behaviour. By the time your baby arrives, your dog will already know what is expected of him and you will feel much more comfortable with the situation.©