Welcoming a new baby into your family is an exciting and transformative experience, but it can also be a significant adjustment, especially for families with dogs.

While dogs can be wonderful companions and loyal friends, introducing a newborn into a household with a canine can require thoughtful preparation, particularly when it comes to creating boundaries.

Establishing boundaries ahead of time can make bringing your new baby home easier. Here are a few essential tips for creating a safe and happy home with your newborn and your fur baby.

Preparing for the New Arrival: Start 2-3 Months Before

Proper preparation is key to establishing a positive relationship between your dog and your newborn. 

Start teaching your dog boundaries two to three months before your baby is due to arrive. This proactive approach will give your dog ample time to adjust to the changes in their environment and your family dynamics.

The more prepared your dog is, the less overwhelming the changes will be when they do happen. The following are a few steps we recommend taking during this preparation period.

Define Clear Boundaries

One of the first steps in preparing your dog for the arrival of a newborn is to set clear boundaries. These boundaries provide structure and help your dog understand the new rules that will be in place once the baby arrives.

These boundaries should include:

• Defining couch and bed privileges. If your dog is used to lounging on the couch or bed, this might need to change. Establish “no couch/bed” rules well in advance to help your dog learn that these spaces are reserved for humans, especially with a baby around.

• Toning down excited greetings. Dogs often express excitement when their owners come home by jumping up or running towards them. To prevent this behavior from becoming problematic when the baby arrives, work on training your dog to greet you calmly. Practice having them sit or stay in a designated spot when you enter the house.

Introduce “Place” Training

As part of your boundary-setting, consider incorporating “place” training with your dog. This training involves teaching your dog to go to a specific location, like a mat or bed, and stay there until given permission to move.

Place training can be particularly useful for maintaining safety and structure when the baby is present. Start with short durations and gradually increase the time your dog stays in their place, reinforcing the behavior as they learn.

Create a Safe Space for Your Baby and Dog

We recommend establishing a three-foot physical boundary, or “bubble,” between your dog and your new baby. This is essential for your baby’s safety and your own comfort.

This space can help your dog adjust to the baby’s presence without feeling crowded or overwhelmed. Use baby gates or playpens to create clear boundaries, ensuring that both your dog and newborn have their designated areas within the home.

Never leave your dog unsupervised with children of any age, especially infants and toddlers. Closely monitor all interactions between your dog and child, intervening immediately if necessary. As your baby becomes mobile, be extra vigilant, as their unpredictable movements may startle or excite your dog. Always prioritize safety in these interactions.

Desensitize Your Dog to Baby Sounds and Smells

In the months leading up to the baby’s arrival, help your dog get used to new sounds and smells associated with infants.

You can play recordings of baby sounds, such as cooing or crying, at a low volume to encourage desensitization. This also serves to create positive associations through rewards and treats during these exercises.

As you prepare for the baby, introduce items like strollers, cribs, and diaper bags. Allow your dog to sniff and get accustomed to these new objects, providing treats to reinforce familiarity and calmness.

Seek Professional Guidance as Needed

Having your canine and your baby live together can be a significant adjustment, and many parents find they need support to help their fur baby adjust during this time.

Don’t hesitate to seek the advice of a professional dog trainer during this process. An experienced trainer can provide tailored strategies to ease the transition and ensure that both your dog and baby can coexist safely and happily, reducing your stress and increasing the chances of a positive outcome.

Contact Nova Pack Dog Training Today

If you’re preparing to welcome a new baby into your home, let Nova Pack Dog Training help you with this transition by properly preparing your canine. We work with dogs of all temperaments and breeds to help them adjust to a new family member. Contact us today to schedule an in-home training evaluation!