So, you are expecting or planning to start a family?  Is your canine “child” ready?  Each year, unprepared owners relinquish scores of dogs to shelters when a new baby arrives.  Many couples begin dogs-meets-baby planning too late, it al all.  To avoid problems and canine-human sibling rivalry, begin preparing your dog well in advance of the baby’s homecoming – ideally months before.

            During the actual homecoming is probably too late.  This is a high-stress time for new parents, filled with emotions, challenges, and uneven routines.  The dog picks up on this and might act out unexpectedly.  “Dogs can associate your lack of attention with the baby,” says one expert, “and you don’t want to give any cause for the dog to associate the baby with anything negative.”

            You may unconsciously do just that when you snap at your dog for smelling the infant, push her away, or scold her for doing things that you once condoned, such as entering the guest room – which is now the nursery.

            Experts state that a big mistake is not recognizing the dog’s attention-seeking behaviors and curbing them early on.  Something that’s annoying now, such as pawing, can become downright obnoxious, once the baby is on board.

            You can minimize negative effects during this transitional time by following a few guidelines.

 

Prior to baby’s arrival home

bulletStarting months before the baby arrives, take your dog to obedience school, even if she’s attended before.  This serves as a teaching tool for her and a bonding opportunity for both of you.
bulletHave friends and small infants and small children visit and watch how your dog reacts.  If she seems afraid, don’t force any interaction, but let her approach at her own pace.  Learn how to read body language.  Consult a trainer or behaviorist if her anxiety appears excessive.  Many dogs that were not socialized as puppies around children can appear fearful or anxious in their presence.  Now is the time to work with a trainer on counter-conditioning modification techniques so your dog will be comfortable around small ones.  REMEMBER: never leave dogs and children unsupervised.
bulletProvide your dog with a safe and quiet place that she can adjourn to when the household hubbub gets too intense.  Establish this place as a positive one before the baby arrives, and never use it as punishment.
bulletCarry a blanket-wrapped doll around the house.  It allows the dog to see you do something you don’t normally do.  Also, take the doll with you in a stroller on walks to help your dog get used to the equipment.
bulletTurn on the infant swing, wind up music boxes, plays CDs resonating with the cries of newborns, and set up the crib and gradually expose your dog to these.  All help desensitize your dog to the new sights and sounds. 
bulletDon’t go overboard and spend every moment with your dog before the baby is born, thinking it will tide her over.  All it will do is confuse her possibly making her associate the sudden lack of attention with the infant.
bulletArrange for safe, comfortable care for your dog during your hospital stay.
bulletDon’t forget to visit your veterinarian before the baby arrives, making sure your dog is in tip-top shape and current on all vaccinations.  Throw in a trip to the groomer for a haircut and nail trim.
bulletBefore you come home with the baby, have someone bring your dog an article of clothing that smells like the hospital and praise and reward her as she sniffs it.

 Once baby comes home

 

bulletHave another person hold the infant when you first arrive home.  This allows you to calmly greet your dog and give her treats – stash some in your purse or pocket before leaving the hospital.  Then calmly introduce her to the baby, rewarding proper behavior.  Keep the meeting brief and positive.  A quick sniff of the feet will suffice as a first hello.
bulletThe most important thing you can do is praise extensively every time your dog behaves properly around babies and their stuff.  When she gently sniffs her new human sibling, pull out a high value treat or favorite toy.  Show her in words and actions that you approve of her behavior, even if she’s just lying quietly by your feet as you fold laundry.  You want your dog to know she’s doing the right thing.
bulletThink of ways you can spend quality time with your dog after the baby arrives.  Morning runs and hours spent hiking may be on the hiatus for now, but your dog only cares about the what, not the where.  Don’t underestimate mental stimulation!  Teach you dog new tricks, like Roll Over and Retrieve-a-paper, or playing Fetch and Hide-n-Seek.  Some of these things you can do while sitting on the couch with your baby, or while cooking dinner.  Your dog just wants to be with you in a positive way!