Introducing Bowser to Baby

When I announced I was pregnant with my now soon to be 2 year old son, I was somewhat surprised by how many people asked "What are you going to do with your dogs?!"  At first, I was confused by the reasoning for such a question.  Initially, I explained that the hospital where I was delivering was close to home and that my husband or family members would be going to let the dogs out and feed them... Then I realized that they were under the impression that bringing home a baby meant I would have to find new homes for my dogs, Sasha and Nolan, who have each been a part of my life for several years.  I couldn't imagine it.  I couldn't see telling them goodbye just because we were having a baby.  People warned me that the dogs would be jealous and may want to harm the baby.  I assured them that I would be keeping my dogs and we would be one big, happy family.  To ensure that I could prove those folks wrong, I made sure to take the following steps:

1. Get your dog used to baby gear.

While preparing for the arrival of your new bundle, get your dog used to the sights and sounds of all the equipment that comes along with becoming a parent. Let them sniff packages of baby diapers and other supplies.  Put a doll or stuffed animal in the baby's carrier or stroller and let the dog see you interact with it.

2. Bring something of baby's home from the hospital.

Before baby comes home, have your spouse or another family member take a blanket or cap that has the baby's scent on it, home to your dog.  When my son was born, my husband took home a knit cap to let the dogs get used to his scent.  My shepherd mix, Sasha, carried it around and slept with it!

3. Make sure Bowser has been exercised.

On the day of the homecoming, make arrangements for your dog to get a nice, long walk before you arrive.  As always, a tired dog is a good dog!

4. Make a calm entrance upon your arrival home.

When you come home from the hospital, have your partner or another family member carry in the baby and allow you a moment to calmly greet the dog who will likely be excited to see you after you have been gone a few days.  This reinforces that everything is okay and that they are still important.

5.  Allow Bowser to sniff baby.

Once you have greeted your dog, it is time to introduce Baby.  Holding the baby securely in your arms, allow the dog to calmly sniff the baby.  Immediately pull away if the dog becomes too excitable and try again a bit later once they have calmed down. Praise good, calm behavior.  

6.  Maintain routine.

As everyone is adjusting to life with the new family member, make sure the dog's routine is changed as little as possible. Try to keep feedings at the usual time and make sure the dog continues to get exercise. If visitors offer to help, take them up on their offer by assigning them to walk the dog or provide them with some play time in the yard. 

In summary, all dogs will react differently based on their personalities.  Ultimately, you must know your dog and know what will work for them. If you already know your dog has serious behavior issues, get them addressed by a professional prior to your baby's due date.

My dogs have two completely different personalities and, therefore, had two completely different reactions when we brought our son home. My greyhound, Nolan, is a laid back dog who likes to sleep at least 18 hours a day. He approached me, looked at the baby, looked back at me, gave a nod of approval, and went back to his bed.  He let fme know that he was fine with our new bundle of joy as long as he didn't have to participate in any late night changings or feedings.  Sasha, is a bit more excitable and was fairly wound up for a day or two after we brought our son home.  However, she also kept me company through each one of those late night change and feeds that Nolan insisted on avoiding.