Friday, October 2, 2009
MYFOXNY.COM - Dog behavior specialist Rayner Pacheco suggests the following tips for anyone welcoming a baby into a home with a dog.
Bringing a baby home from the hospital is an exciting event for both parents and animals living in the house. A new baby will change the hierarchy in the household, which is likely to be confusing for your the dog. Begin taking steps long before the baby arrives to prepare your pooch for the new family member. Following the guidelines will help keep your child safe and prevent problems.
Items you'll need for training:
1) A fake baby (make sure it makes baby sounds)
2) baby gate(s)
3) supplies for the baby
4) treats to reward the dog for good behavior....
2) baby gate(s)
3) supplies for the baby
4) treats to reward the dog for good behavior....
A few training tips:
1) Use the fake baby and carry it in your arms as you practice walking around the house. Do not allow the dog to follow you or jump on you. Reprimand him if he does and say "down." When the dog doesn't follow you, praise him and give him a treat. This exercise helps teach the dog manners.
2) Put baby gate(s) up on the door(s) of the room as you prepare the nursery. Do not allow the dog in the room.
3) Establish a set routine for the dog, when baby arrives nothing changes.
4) Don't allow the dog sleep in the same room as you or the baby.
5) Make sure during down times when the baby is asleep you have play time or give attention to the dog.
6.) If your dog is good with other dogs, find a day care center and have your dog go to it, sometimes stress can build with the dog when the baby cries. It's good when the dog is out the house enjoying playing with other dogs....(Remember when your dog comes back home refresh training in basic commands, you don't want it to pick up unwanted behavior from other dogs.)
7.) Your dog should never be in front of you (walking or sitting)because this will create leadership confusion. When walking your dog he should always be on your side, not pulling in front.
8.) Bring home an article of clothing from the hospital that holds the scent of the mother and the baby. Let the dog sniff it.
9.) Never allow the dog to sniff your baby, until you feel ready.
10.) When in the same room as your dog and baby always have
another person with you, this way you're not alone and you're able to focus on the baby.
another person with you, this way you're not alone and you're able to focus on the baby.
11.) Never leave the baby alone with the dog.
12.)Once the baby's room is done walk in with your dog. Let him sniff around but do not let him jump on the crib or play with the baby's toys.
Rayner Pacheco
Dog behavioral specialist
T-Trainers
646-707-2050
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