06-11-2008 - Doggy info

My mood while writing this blog: Ok

Here's some tips I got about helping your dogs adjust to the new arrival.

Brush up on the basics:perfect your dogs commands. Re-establish the pecking order. Make sure when you greet people coming in to your home you get to meet them first then your dog greets them second. Also, when going outside you always go first then the dog follows. This establishes you as the pack leader and will help your dog listen to you better. If you or anyone else plays "tug of war" with your dog- STOP now! This only teaches dogs to bite down and pull toys from people. Your dog may have trouble knowing what toys are his and what ones are your babies. The last thing you want is your child being pulled down because your dog thinks he's playing. When your dog is demanding your attention make them start doing a little something extra to get your attention (ex: make him sit before you gie them attention when walking in the door). This will again show them that things are done on your terms and that you are the boss, but also gives you a little extra control.

Prepare your pet: His routine is going to be interrupted by the baby. You won't have as much time with him and some rooms may be off limits. Make those adjustments or changes earlier- before the baby comes home so your dog won't see the infant as the reason for the changes which can cause jealousy and hostility.

Use a stunt double: Get a life sized baby doll and hold it, rock it and walk around with it. This will allow you to correct any bad behavior before it's actually your new baby. They also suggest taping an infants noises and playing them so the dog can get used to it. Female dogs tend to get upset more when a baby cries- just reassure them with a "its okay or its alright". Use the word "baby" and make the your dog use good behavior before allowing him to interact with the doll.

When dog meets baby: have someone bring something with the baby's scent home before you arrive so the dog is farmiliar with your baby's scent ahead of time. Let the dog explore the nursery before the baby arrives.

Greet your dog with open arms: Easy way to nip jealosy in the bud: let someone else carry the baby in if you've been gone in the hospital for a few days- this will allow you to give your dog a warm greeting.

Introduce them: Some suggest allowing your dog to meet the baby out by the car in the drive way if you have a dog that is funny about his territory. Make your dog sit while you hold the infant. Depending on your comfort level you can let the dog sniff or sit near/with you. Do not force them to interact if your dog is not interested yet.

Stay together: Use supervision. Even if you have the most well behaved dog in the world you still do not want to leave your infant alone with your pet.

Include your pet: Use early on interactions and incorporate your dog into your routine. Make sure they still get that special time that they are used to.