Welcoming a Baby Into a Home with a Lively Dog

Bringing a newborn home is a special time, filled with magic and a touch of chaos. Now, imagine adding a bouncy, high-energy dog to the picture! I spent a year with my six-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer, Maple, while on maternity leave with my baby. Spoiler alert: we all survived and thrived with a lot of love, patience, and cheese!

Preparing Your Pooch for Big Changes

• Training Basics: Before your baby arrives, work on training exercises with your furry friend. I focused on teaching Maple to walk nicely on a leash. Picture this: me, the baby in a stroller, and no one ending up in a bush – success!
• Introducing Baby Sounds: Help your dog get used to baby cries by playing recordings quietly at first, then gradually increasing the volume.
• Nursery Time: Spend time with your dog in the baby's room. Encourage calm behavior so they know it’s a place for quiet, not play. And remember, cribs are off-limits for paws!

Safety First for Everyone

• Separation Solutions: Keep your baby and dog safe with playpens or baby gates. This way, your dog can see you but not accidentally knock over the little one.
• Never Leave Unattended: Dogs and babies are unpredictable. Always supervise them together for everyone’s safety.

Finding Balance and Joy in Your New Routine

• Walks as Naptime Powerhouses: Combine your dog’s need for a walk with your baby’s nap. A stroller walk meant peaceful sleep for my son and fun adventure time for Maple.
• Brain Workouts: Mental games like hiding kibble or setting up mini-training sessions in the garden can burn off some of that endless energy. It’s a great bonding time too!
• Treat Toys: Freeze a Kong toy stuffed with kibble and peanut butter. It’s a delightful, tasty challenge for your pup.

Explore and Have Fun Together

• Discover New Adventures: Break free from the same old walking paths. I used a footpath app to find exciting new trails, and both Maple and I loved the adventure.
• Professional Help When Needed: If it all feels like too much, don’t hesitate to get a dog walker or training help. It takes a village, after all!

A Heartfelt Call to Action

Cherishing moments with Maple while adapting to life with a baby was one of the most rewarding experiences. If you have a pet, take a moment today to appreciate the joy they bring into your life. And if you find yourself without a furry companion, consider adopting a rescue pet who’s waiting to share endless love and cuddles.

Read next: 12 Heartwarming Insights on Raising a Baby Alongside a Beloved Pet