Understanding your dog

Your dog and a new baby

Your dog is used to being your only "baby", and now he will have to share you with this new little person that will be entering "his" home. It is best to start preparing your dog when you first find out you are expecting, rather than waiting until the day you bring home your new baby.

Below are some suggestions and tips you can use to make the transition easier for both you and your dog.

• Invite over a friend that already has an infant to accustom your dog to babies. Be sure to supervise your dog and not leave him unattended, even if your dog seems unfazed by the baby's presence.
• If you have a nursery for the baby, put a gate in the doorway as soon as possible, as this will teach your dog early on that he is not allowed in that room. A gate is a good choice as dogs are curious creatures by nature. Allowing him to see what is going on in the room will also help in not making him feel isolated or left out once your baby arrives.
• Begin sprinkling some baby powder on the carpet or rubbing baby oil on yourself. This will help him to become accustomed to the new smells now, making the transition much easier when you finally bring your new baby home.
• Before your baby enters your home, be sure to take your dog to the Veterinarian to be sure that his shots are updated and that he is healthy. Also be sure to have his nails clipped.
• While you and your baby are still in the hospital, have your family member brings home a piece of clothing that belongs to your new baby and give it to your dog. This will help him become accustomed to your baby's smell and he will likely be more relaxed when your baby enters the home.
• When you are coming home for the first time, it is best that you greet your pet without your baby, while someone else holds the baby away from the area. You need to remember that he will be excited to see you and may jump up. After he calms down, allow your dog to sniff the baby. Have a treat in hand for your dog and be sure to praise him for his good behavior.
• And lastly, always be sure to never leave your baby unattended around your dog, no matter how well adjusted he appears to be. Always have supervision

Training

All dogs need to be trained in the basics - to sit, walk, and come. Older dogs as well as puppies can benefit from proper and consistent dog training, which will help them to become a well-behaved dog and keep people around your dog happy.

Depression

It is not uncommon for dogs to get depressed. If you sense your dog is depressed, you should spend more time playing with and training this dog. Take him through a lot of motivational training exercises in your yard or while on walks. Get him some new toys.