Having a Newborn and a Puppy

Preparing your pet for a new addition to the family is a great idea. Depending on the breed and temperment training should start 4-5 months before your due date. This gives a 2-3 week cushion for any unexpected happenings. Here are a few things you should do to ensure that your pet will be ready for the new baby:

Pet to the Vet

Taking your pet to the vet for a routine check up is necessary. You may also opt to get your pet the vaccinations he or she needs. A healthy and happy
 pup eliminates and additional behavior concerns contributed to neutering or vaccinations. Even though humans and babies are not susceptible to most canine diseases, a unhappy pup can lead to problems in the future.

Pet Training

If your pet has aggressive habits, take immediate action and consult a specialist or vet right away. This behavior is dangerous and needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Having to put down your pet because YOU did not take the right steps to correct aggressive behavior is not an option. Of course, all parents will pick their baby over your dog any day, but all detriment can be avoided with hard work and diligence, anything else is inexcusable. Your pets should be trained not to jump up on people or kids and avoid running around the house. Doctors recommend moderate exercise while pregnant so this would be a good time to get in the habit of walking your dog to release pint up energy that could be causing this behavior. Beneficial to both you, baby and the pup.

Grooming

Regular grooming will keep shedding to a minimum and cut back on dander or allergens your best friend brings in from inside. A bit of grooming will not only keep your pet happy but will also prepare him or her for the new baby. Beside cutting back on dander and others, grooming will help your pup look and feel his/her very best!

Home Training

Doll simulation: Buy a 3-5lb doll from your local Walmart. The more lifelike the doll is in look, smell and sound the better the preparation for your pet. Getting your pet acquainted with the elements you will be using for the baby. This includes formula, baby oil, and baby powder (smell). Make sure to not use the doll in a jerky or use quick movements while confronting your dog, the doll should represent your baby and NOT a toy. Let it be known to your dog you own this doll (as you will your baby) and under no circumstances are you allowed to go near the doll (baby) without my permission. Your body language needs to say it and you need to feel it, if you don't know you will when you newborn arrives. You can teach your dog to stay away like they would not jumping on the furniture. Dogs DO like to be told what to do and actually like to obey orders so this should be a fun experience for everyone and not a punishment for your dog or you. This will be a dual effort with you and your husband and consistently practice behavioral training 10-15 minutes a day with your pet.

Getting A Sitter

Getting a pet sitter is advisable when you are finally going to give birth. The sitter will accompany your pet while he or she waits at home to welcome the new baby. The pet sitter will need to walk your dog regularly to relieve any anxiety building up in anticipation of you coming home. One you are home with the newborn continue the behavioral training like nothing had happened. This also means walking continues to be a regular routine to minimize any extra energy that is pent up due to less attention.

If you are concerned about the your newborns health please consult the best pediatrician for newborns the in Dallas and Plano area HERE.
If you are concerned about the demeanor of your pet towards your newborn please consult you trusted vet in the Frisco area HERE.