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Introducing a dog to a newborn baby
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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The mistake many future or current parents make is that they believe that introducing a pet to a baby should wait until the baby grows up. However, this is not true. From the very first days of a newborn baby's stay in the house, the dog should get to know 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 available before the birth of the child should be used to the maximum to teach the dog obedience. If before the pet could easily jump into your bed or on the sofa, then after the appearance of a small child in the house this habit must be eradicated. If you cannot do it yourself, then it is better to seek help from professionals.
Clinical examination
Be sure to make sure that your pet is absolutely healthy and can be in the same room with your child without posing any danger to his health.
Read also: Dogs and cats can protect babies from colds
[ Prepare your dog for a new acquaintance
Before the animal and the child are introduced in person, let the dog get used to new smells in the house, such as the smell of baby powder or cream. This will give him a chance to get used to it gradually.
Dress rehearsal
If you have friends or relatives with small children, observe the dog's reaction to their appearance and his behavior while guests are in the house. As a last resort, wrap a doll in a blanket that looks like a newborn baby.
First meeting
After the baby and mother return from the hospital, do not forget about the animal, let it sniff the blanket in which the baby was wrapped or any item of clothing with its smell. It would be nice on this bright day to please the pet with a new toy, so that it knows that you have not forgotten about it.
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 it also needs love and care. Pay attention to the animal. At least 15 minutes a day should belong entirely to him. Do not forget to encourage and reinforce the dog's good behavior during communication with the child.