Our dogs are very intuitive, so when you are pregnant, the dog already senses that something is wrong. But that doesn't mean he or she understands what's going on. Pets often struggle with the arrival of a new addition to the family, so if you're expecting a baby in a few months, it's important that you prepare him or her as soon as possible.
1. Gradually start giving your dog less attention. This prepares the dog for the diminishing attention he or she will receive when the baby is actually there.
2. Get your dog used to babies and children. Dogs learn on the job so it helps to have babies around. You can also buy a doll the size of a newborn and put on these baby clothes and let your dog get used to it as if it were a baby. Play recordings of baby-related sounds – crying, laughing and so on – for your dog.
3. Take him to the vet. It's a good idea to take the dog to the vet for a thorough check-up prior to the baby's arrival. This way you know for sure that the dog does not have parasites, diseases, allergies or other problems. Castration or sterilization is also recommended, because the dogs are more controllable and show less aggressive behaviour, for example.
4. Claim the baby's area. If you don't want the dog to go into the baby's room, jump into the playpen, lie down on the play mat, then you need to set limits for this. For example, put baby things on the floor and make it clear what the dog should not do.
5. Discourage rough games. Dogs love rough play and if you've given in in the past, stop now. This can become dangerous when the baby comes.
6. Once the baby is born…
When you bring the baby home, make sure the dog doesn't feel left out. Have the dog greet the baby and show him or her that he is still important. Involve him or her with the baby, but never leave the dog alone with the baby. Pay special attention to excited behavior as even a small dog can accidentally cause an injury if he or she is too excited.
7. Don't forget the dog. Make sure the dog knows that he or she is still important. It is essential to do fun activities with the dog every day. The routine should just continue. This will make the dog feel safe and it will be easier to get used to the baby.
