Every pet owner’s most concerning question when they welcome a new baby is, “Can newborns be around dogs?”
It’s an exciting time, but can also be overwhelming for your dog. New, unfamiliar sights, sounds, and routines can unsettle even the most well-behaved pup.
Training your dog in advance ensures a harmonious environment and a smooth transition. In this guide, we are exploring five expert tips that will give you clear instructions on how to introduce dogs to newborns:
1. Gradual Introduction to Baby Sounds, Scents, and Equipment
A baby brings many unfamiliar items into the home—cribs, strollers, toys, and new smells. Dogs need time to adjust to these changes before the baby arrives. Start by:
- Placing baby equipment like cribs and playpens around the house well in advance allows your dog to sniff and explore them.
- Introduce baby sounds, such as crying, by playing audio recordings at low volume and gradually increasing them over time.
- Use unwashed baby clothes or blankets to familiarize your dog with the baby’s scent.
Always pair these introductions with treats, praise, or playtime to create positive associations. This step is key to preparing your dog for a newborn and ensuring it feels comfortable around the new items.
2. Adjust Your Dog’s Routine in Advance
Dogs thrive on routine, so any changes to their schedule or household access should be made early. Gradually adjust feeding times, walks, or play sessions to align with the new routine you’ll follow after the baby’s arrival.
- Use baby gates to restrict entry to areas like the nursery and teach your dog boundaries calmly.
- Plan for visitors who may interact with your dog differently. Practice polite greetings and reinforce good behavior with guests.
This gradual adjustment minimizes stress and ensures your dog feels secure, even as your household dynamics change.
3. Teach Essential Skills for Calm Behavior
Certain behaviors, like jumping or excessive barking, can be disruptive or unsafe around a baby. Training your dog to remain calm is crucial. Focus on:
- Teaching the “settle” command, where your dog learns to relax in a specific area, such as a crate or behind a baby gate.
- Practicing calm responses to baby-related cues like crying sounds, baby toys moving, or your attention is focused elsewhere.
- Redirecting unwanted behaviors using treats or interactive feeders keeps your dog mentally stimulated.
By teaching these skills, you ensure that newborns can be around dogs safely while maintaining a peaceful environment.
4. Supervised Introduction to the Baby
The first meeting between your dog and the baby should be calm and controlled. Follow these steps for a safe introduction:
- Keep your dog on a leash and let them view the infant from a distance.
- Gradually decrease the distance while praising calm behavior.
- Reward your dog with treats every time they remain calm and attentive.
Supervision is essential during all interactions. Reinforce positive behaviors to help your dog associate the baby with good experiences. This step is crucial in how to introduce a dog to a newborn successfully.
5. Maintaining a Balanced Environment After the Baby Arrives
Even after the baby is home, it’s important to prioritize your dog’s well-being. Spend quality time with your dog to prevent feelings of neglect or jealousy.
- Use puzzle feeders or interactive toys to keep your dog entertained during busy moments.
- Monitor long-term interactions to ensure the bond between your dog and baby grows safely and positively.
This ongoing effort ensures your dog feels valued while adapting to the new family dynamic.
Buckeye K9: Building Harmony Between Dog and Baby
Preparing your dog for a new baby can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it’s entirely manageable. Gradual preparation, positive reinforcement, and supervised interactions are key to creating a safe and loving bond between your dog and your newborn.
If you want expert guidance to ensure zero risk, Buckeye K9 is here to help. Give us a direct call at (614) 448-6024 or reach us by email at lori@buckeyek9.com. Let us help you make this transition smooth and stress-free for your growing family.