Winding Road Kennel Helps Your Dog Adapt to Your Growing Family
Bringing home a newborn is exciting, but it can be a big adjustment for your dog. Proper preparation helps your pup feel comfortable and secure as your family grows.
Start Training and Reinforcing Commands Early
Prepare your dog for a new baby by reinforcing essential commands before your little one arrives. A well-trained dog adjusts more easily to changes in the home. Strengthen commands like “sit,” “stay,” “leave it,” and “go to your place” so your dog knows how to behave around the baby. If necessary, work with a professional trainer to address any problem behaviors.
Introduce Baby Sounds and Smells Before Birth
Help your dog get used to the new sights, sounds, and smells before the baby arrives. Play recordings of a baby crying at a low volume and gradually increase it. Allow your dog to sniff baby lotion or blankets so the scent is familiar.
Winding Road Kennel Shares How to Create a Routine
Prepare your dog for a new baby by establishing a consistent routine before your little one arrives. Dogs thrive on routine, but a newborn’s schedule can be unpredictable. Start adjusting feeding, walking, and playtime to match what life will be like after the baby arrives. Consistency helps your dog feel secure.
Set Boundaries and Create Safe Spaces
Decide where the baby’s things will be and whether your dog will be allowed in the nursery. Provide your pup with a quiet retreat, such as a crate or bed in another room, to relax when needed.
Reward Positive Interactions with the Baby
Supervise all introductions and reward calm, gentle behavior with praise and treats. Allow your dog to observe from a safe distance before bringing them closer. Keep interactions positive to build trust and comfort.
Training your dog takes time and patience, but with the right approach, your pup can smoothly adjust to your growing family. By reinforcing training, setting routines, and creating positive associations, you help ensure a happy transition for everyone.
To learn more about our services, call Winding Road Kennel at (304) 428-3518. Follow us on Facebook. We are glad to talk more about how to prepare your dog for a new baby!