New Arrivals (into the household)
OK, so you have a dog and now you want a baby. Some people think that dogs are ‘just’ dogs. Wrong. If you don’t consider your dog when your baby arrives, then the dog might let you know what he thinks. You might not like this.
A new baby in the home is a big deal for a dog. He needs to know that jumping up isn’t allowed. If you’re pushing your baby in a buggy and walking your dog on the lead at the same time, will your dog pull? Are you sure that the dog won’t be possessive or aggressive around the baby’s toys?
Is your dog used to children, and well behaved with them?
Dealing with these issues before a new arrivals enters the house will make life a whole lot easier than trying to deal with issues after they occur (when you haven't the time or energy to deal with them).
You also need to consider your dog in all of this – he’s not an accessory to your life. He needs your love and attention whatever is happening in the home. Having a dog who is obedient, loved and looked after (fed, walked, played with, and praised for all his good behaviour) will make any transition a good one, and increase the harmony and balance in your home.
OK, so you have a dog and now you want a baby. Some people think that dogs are ‘just’ dogs. Wrong. If you don’t consider your dog when your baby arrives, then the dog might let you know what he thinks. You might not like this.
A new baby in the home is a big deal for a dog. He needs to know that jumping up isn’t allowed. If you’re pushing your baby in a buggy and walking your dog on the lead at the same time, will your dog pull? Are you sure that the dog won’t be possessive or aggressive around the baby’s toys?
Is your dog used to children, and well behaved with them?
Dealing with these issues before a new arrivals enters the house will make life a whole lot easier than trying to deal with issues after they occur (when you haven't the time or energy to deal with them).
You also need to consider your dog in all of this – he’s not an accessory to your life. He needs your love and attention whatever is happening in the home. Having a dog who is obedient, loved and looked after (fed, walked, played with, and praised for all his good behaviour) will make any transition a good one, and increase the harmony and balance in your home.
Your dog is a partner in your life. Change doesn't have to mean that he suddenly matters less or needs less attention. Dogs know far more than most humans appreciate. If you speak respectfully to your dog and involve him in the baby’s life, he will repay you a thousand-fold.
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