CLEVELAND, Ohio — It's an exciting time with so much to do before baby arrives. But there's one important task you shouldn't neglect.
"People think their dog is going to be fine or they don't prep. And we get the calls - after the fact - where the dog is now growling or maybe even nipping at the baby. Or is terrified of the baby."
Sits 'n Wiggles Trainer and Certified Behavior Consultant Valarie Ross Smith is no stranger to these calls. Safety is the number one priority for all in the house, but some of the problems associated with this transition can be avoided with preparation and intention.
Preparing your dog for baby should start well before that due date.
"To start accepting that there's these new things in my house and new ways that my life is going to be," Val said.
Getting that nursery and house ready - isn't just for baby, it can help your pup too. Baby gates, cribs, strollers - having that gear in place - will allow your dog to check it and get comfortable with it ahead of time. That can include toys that might make noise. Rooms that may be off limits to the dog. Allow them time to adjust to these changes ahead of time.
Another tip: brushing up on basic commands. "Sit, stay and down," are the biggies. Make sure your dog is prepared to listen when baby is near.
Your dog is also going to have to get used to a small human in your arms. For that reason, it's not a bad idea to use a "baby doll" or something swaddled that might be the size of a baby - as a prop. Val has her clients do this exercise.
"Work with your dog. Ask them to do things. Start teaching them new cues and doing it with that "fake" bundle of joy in your arms," she said.
Lastly, take the empty stroller out with you on some dog walks. There will be lots of family walks in the future - get your furbaby used to walking next to that buggy.
Now you're ready for baby. But Val advises against a face-to-face meet and greet when you walk in the door.
"You may actually wanna have your partner or a trusted family member have your dog already out on a walk. So you can come home without the dog there. And then the dog comes in a little bit later, plus they've already had some exercise."
When your dog does come in, have baby in a bassinet or if a relative is helping out, have them hold baby. It's important for you to greet your dog, without baby.
After that, it's slow introductions with distance.
"Baby is safe in that crib, baby is safe on the other side of the, the baby gate. So your dog can just even learn to start coping with the new smells and sounds without having your dog's face right up in your brand new baby's."
Bringing home a swaddling blanket from the hospital, with baby's smell is also a great addition.
Just as you are adjusting to this new life, so is your best friend. Some dogs may regress a bit, or exhibit signs of anxiety. The last thing you want to do is cut back on walks or playtime.
"It's important to keep up with that exercise and enrichment for your dog, during this time. It helps reduce that stress and anxiety for them," Val said.
If you need help from a relative, friend or a dog walker familiar with your pup, that's a good plan too. Keeping up with your pup's walk and play is crucial.
If problems do pop up, reach out to a certified trainer, sooner - rather than later.