baby

You have been preparing for the arrival of your baby for months. The room has been decorated and furnished, the baby clothes have been folded and put into the dresser, the toys are in the toy bin and a truckload of diapers is stacked up everywhere. You just know you have forgotten something very important. What is it? Oh, man, you forgot to prepare the dog for the introduction to your baby.

There is a lot to do in a very short time. Why didn’t you start preparing him sooner? Well, it is too late to worry about it now. It is time to work with your dog so it is a comfortable meet and greet for him and the baby.

First, it is off to the vet. You want to make sure your dog is healthy and all vaccines are up to date. If he is not fixed, now might be the time. Be sure to have tests run to determine that your dog is worm and parasite free.

Invite your friends with babies to come and visit.
When your dog is used to being around other babies it will be an easy transition when you bring your new baby home. Watch your dog closely when he is interacting with your friends’ baby. You may even want to keep him on a short lead.

Let your dog become familiar with all of the smells associated with having a baby in the house. Allow him to wander around the baby’s room and sniff everything. Let him smell the powders and lotions by putting a little on your hands.

If this is your first baby, your dog is probably used to the house being fairly calm and quiet. There are CD’s available that have baby sounds. Crying, cooing, and laughing, etc. Play these sounds often so your dog will get used to them. Give him lots of attention while they are playing. This will help it be a positive reaction when the baby arrives.

Be sure that you have several doggie toys. Do not ever allow him to play with the baby’s toys. His scent will be on his toys and he will know the difference. You do not want to have to worry about your dog taking a toy away from the baby. When the baby is old enough, do not allow him or her to play with the dogs toys for the same reason.

Your dog needs to know his place. You need to establish yourself as the alpha of the pack. When you speak to him and give him a command, you want him to obey. This is for the safety of both him and the baby.

One of the hardest things is getting him used to you carrying the baby. Get a doll and wrap it in a baby blanket. Carry it around the house with you, not forgetting to talk and give attention to your dog. When you walk your dog, put the baby doll in the stroller and take it with you. He will become comfortable with your new walking conditions.

It is now time for the homecoming. Let a family member hold the baby when you enter the house for the first. Your dog has missed you and he will need your attention. Cuddle and love him to show you are happy to see him.

Soon after your arrival home, leash your dog and slowly approach and allow him to sniff the baby while having a controlled hold on him. Whatever you do, do not force him to look at or go near the baby. With some dog’s it may take a little longer. As long as you allow your dog to be part of the everyday activities of having a baby, he will not feel threatened. He will know he is part of the family and that you love him.

Try to imagine what good friends they will be as the baby grows up. Your dog will protect and love him or her unconditionally.
Why not start now and teach your dog everything you can to make him a well-behaved and loving dog that your friends and family will enjoy being around.
Your dog wants to please you, so take control now. Everyone will be happier, including your dog. You can learn more on how to do that by checking out these Dog Training Videos at http://goodpuppydog.info/ Enjoy your dog; he is one of the best friends you and your family will ever have.

Author: Deborah Gewock
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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baby