How To Prepare Your Dog For a Baby

  • July 21, 2009
  • 2,560 Views
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A new baby introduces new sounds and smells into the house, so get your best friend ready before the baby comes home from the hospital.

You Will Need

  • A crib
  • A stroller
  • Assorted baby toys
  • A friend's baby
  • A recording device
  • Dog treats
  • A dog bed
How To Prepare Your Dog For a Baby: Make the house ready

Step 1: Make the house ready

Add items for your baby to your home – like a crib, a stroller, and baby toys – slowly, so your dog can get used to them.

How To Prepare Your Dog For a Baby: Use a stunt baby

Step 2: Use a stunt baby

Ask a friend to bring their baby over for a visit. Record the baby’s sounds, including cries, and play them back for the dog in the months leading up to the birth.

How To Prepare Your Dog For a Baby: Change the sleeping arrangements

Step 3: Change the sleeping arrangements

If your dog sleeps in your room or bed, slowly move them to their own sleeping area. They should be sleeping comfortably in their own spot away from your bedroom and the baby’s room several weeks before the due date.

Make sure your dog knows the new sleeping arrangement is not a punishment by leaving treats on his bedding.

How To Prepare Your Dog For a Baby: Getting the scent

Step 4: Getting the scent

While mother and baby are still in the hospital, send some worn clothes home to acclimate your dog to the new baby’s scent.

How To Prepare Your Dog For a Baby: Bonding with the baby

Step 5: Bonding with the baby

While you are playing with the baby, don’t neglect your four-legged friend. As you are holding the baby, talk to your dog and give them plenty of treats.

Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz hired “Dog Whisperer” Cesar Millan to help their bulldog prepare for their baby.

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Comments (2)

HeatherM

Such a cute baby and dog!

over 2 years ago by HeatherM

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Xavier_Tan

the dog is far cuter

about 1 year ago by Xavier_Tan

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Video is in How To With Babies (28 videos)