Tips to Keep in Mind While Introducing Human Babies to Dogs

Most of the dog parents out there, wonder about how to introduce their baby to their fur baby. Some might go down the reddit rabbit-hole reading about other dog parent's experiences regarding this topic. To make it a little easier for you, here are some tips to keep in mind while introducing a human baby to a dog.

1.  Gradually introduce the baby to the dog: Before the baby arrives, allow the dog to get used to the scent of the baby by using items like the baby's blanket or clothes. When the baby is born, gradually introduce the dog to the baby by allowing the dog to sniff and investigate the baby from a distance.
   
   
   
2. Supervise all interactions: It's important to always supervise the interactions between the baby and the dog to ensure the safety of both. With older children, once you ascertain that they can follow the rules and outcome of their interaction is a positive one, you can leave them alone. However, this is not true in terms of younger children, wherein their unpredictably may sway the outcome either way!
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Reward good behavior: Encourage good behavior in the dog by rewarding them with treats or praise when they behave calmly around the baby. This reward is going to act as a 'positive reinforcement' for the dogs, making them want to repeat this 'good action' to get treats. Slowly, their minds would automatically register 'behaving calmly in front of the baby' as a good action without needing any treats to fortify the thought.  
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Train the dog basic commands: Teach the dog basic commands such as "sit," "stay," and "leave it," which can be helpful in controlling the dog's behavior around the baby. Since we cannot control the baby's actions, teaching our dogs basic commands is the next best option. This would not only help them with forming a meaningful connection with the baby but also help them in their everyday life. 
   
   
   
   
   
   
5. Never leave the baby and dog alone together: It's important to never leave the baby and dog alone together, especially when the baby is very young. Accidents can happen, and it's important to be present to prevent any potential harm.
   
   
   
   
   
   
6. Keep the dog's living space separate from the baby's: It's a good idea to have a separate space for the dog to sleep and rest that is away from the baby's living and sleeping areas. This will allow the dog to have a sense of ownership over their own space and will also give the baby a safe and quiet place to sleep.
   
   
   
   
   
   
7. Be patient: It's important to be patient with both the baby and the dog as they learn to interact with each other. It may take some time for the dog to get used to the presence of the baby, and it's important to be understanding and patient with them during this process.
   
   
   
   
   

Although this whole topic of 'how to introduce a baby to your fur baby' might seem a little scary, we hope this blog would help you in this journey.

Do you have any other tips in mind? Write to us in the comments down below. 

Till then lots of woofs and wags to you!