Acquaintance of a dog with a newborn child
Last reviewed: 16.10.2021
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The mistake of many future or real parents is that they believe that acquaintance of the pet and the baby should wait until the child grows up. However, this is not true. From the very first days of the newborn baby's arrival in the house, the dog must meet with him and understand that this is not a stranger, but a new member of the family.
What is the basis of dating?
The time that is before the birth of a child should be used to the maximum to teach the dog obedience. If earlier a pet could jump to your bed or sofa easily, then after the appearance of a small child in the house, this habit must be eradicated. If you can not do it yourself, it's better to turn to the help of professionals.
Clinical examination
Be sure to make sure that your pet is absolutely healthy and can be in the same room with the child, not representing for his health no danger.
Read also: Dogs and cats are able to protect babies from colds
[Prepare the dog for a new acquaintance
Before personal acquaintance of the animal and child takes place, let the dog get used to new smells in the house, for example, the smell of baby powder or cream. This will give him the opportunity to get used gradually.
Dress rehearsal
If you have friends or relatives with young children, observe the reaction of the dog to their appearance and their behavior while they are in the house. In extreme cases, wrap in a blanket doll, which would be like a newborn baby.
The first meeting
After the baby and mother return from the hospital, do not forget about the animal, let it sniff the blanket into which the child or any garment with his scent was wrapped. It would be nice on this bright day to please the pet with a new toy, so that he knows that they have not forgotten about him.
Spend time with your pet
When a child appears in the house, all attention is usually focused only on him, but try not to forget about your dog, because she also needs love and care. Pay attention to the animal. At least 15 minutes a day should only belong to him alone. Do not forget to encourage and reinforce good behavior of the dog while communicating with the child.