Dogs and Newborns: This Is How to Introduce a Dog to Your Baby

July 15, 2020

Did you know that the American Pet Products Association found that 60% of households in the United States have a pet?

With more than 90 million dogs in households across the United States, and with more than 116 million babies expected to be born this year, there’s a chance that your household has a dog and well as having a newborn very soon!

When it comes to introducing dogs and newborns, there are several important steps that you need to it take to ensure the health of your baby and your furry friend. That’s why today, we’ve created this quick guide to help you better understand how to introduce your baby and dog to each other. Keep reading to learn more!

Train Your Dog

If you still have time before your newborn arrives into this world, it’s time for you to start training your dog. Enrolling your dog in obedience classes will help to correct any potential problems that could cause detrimental effects to your health or your baby’s health later down the road.

Bad habits such as your dog jumping on you when you get home from work could serve as a potential threat when you’re later in your pregnancy or when you’re carrying your newborn baby in your arms.

Introduce Your Dog to a Doll

While you may feel crazy doing this, a few months before your delivery date, carry a doll around your home in the same way that you will be with your newborn. Coo at the doll, carry the doll around your home and set up all of these supplies that your baby will be using when it’s brought home. Items such as a swing, a crib, and a bassinet should all be used by the doll, as this will allow your dog to become familiar and comfortable with these items.

When Should I Introduce My Dog to My Newborn?

You can introduce your baby to the dog a few days after you bring your newborn home. However, when you do first come home with a newborn, you want to be sure that you give your dog attention without the baby in your hands. This will prevent the dog from jumping on you, potentially injuring your baby.

When you introduce your dog to a newborn, give your dog a chance to smell a baby while it’s being controlled on a leash. As the dog is smelling your baby, pet, and praise your dog. Always allow your dog to choose when to interact with the baby, as the invitation to interact with your baby will prevent your dog from feeling threatened and potentially biting the baby.

Understanding When to Introduce Dogs and Newborns

By understanding When to introduce your dog to a baby, you’ll be able to protect your newborn and dog. We hope that you have a better understanding of when to introduce dogs and newborns to each other!

Are you looking for other guides to help you with training your dog? Contact us today to learn more!