The Interaction Between Dogs & Babies

Do you have a dog and plan to bring a newborn into the home? When the dog meets the baby for the first time, there will be many overwhelming emotions. Routines will change, and the dog will not get as much attention as before. However, you can do your best to prepare for the arrival of the new addition.

One of the best things you can do to help your dog prepare for the new arrival is to teach them skills they will need to interact safely with their new family member. Furthermore, you must help your dog adjust to new experiences and changes ahead. Planning is crucial! Good verbal control of your dog would be best, which will benefit you when juggling the newborn’s needs.

Unfortunately, dogs may experience anxiety when a new baby is welcomed into the home. This is no surprise, as the dog’s lifestyle changes entirely at this point! Get your dog used to the changes in advance.

You should also prepare your dog for the baby’s touch and movement.

The child must also be taught how to interact with the dog. This will come as the child ages. The child must develop respect for the dog’s body, safe zones, and belongings. You must always supervise interactions so that you can guide your child as they learn to communicate and play with the dog! Planning should be your primary strategy, yielding a win-win situation for everyone in the family.