Many first time parents who have had a family dog for years all wonder the same thing, “Is it safe to have a dog around a newborn baby?” The answer to this question is yes however you must first make sure that you prepare your dog for this new family addition as well.  

We all know that our dogs can be used to being the only baby in the house when there are no other children around. But, if the proper steps are taken and he is still giving the same love and attention that he is used to their will be no problems once the baby arrives.

How to Prepare Your Dog:

·When you first discover that a baby will be joining the family start putting in place stricter rules for your dog so it won’t be a surprise when the baby arrives.  For example, if you allow your dog to be in the chairs and the bed start teaching him or that sitting on furniture will be no longer allowed.

·Don’t baby him or her up as much. For example, if you are someone who holds your dog around the clock and lets him just be up under you all day put that to a stop. However, this does not mean that you cannot still spend time and play with your dog just get him or her used to spending some time alone. So, when the baby comes it will not result in him hurting the baby out of jealous.

·When the baby is still at the hospital bring home a dirty diaper and some clothes that the baby has worn so your dog will be able to pick up your child’s scent. This will prepare your dog to be able to recognize the scent of your child.

·When you bring the baby home. Interact with your dog, but don’t let the dog get to close to the child and lick him or her.

There are other things that can be done as well to prepare your dog yet those are the main things. It will not take your dog that long at all to get used to the child. However, if you have a more aggressive breed such as a pit bull you will want to keep a special eye on your family friend and make sure he is never alone with the child unsupervised.  But, don’t be surprised if as your child gets older your dog develops a stronger bond with your child than he or she has with you especially if it is a female dog.