New
Baby and the Family Dog
by
David the Dogman
I
always advise that as soon as you are aware that there will be
a new baby in the house, begin to prepare your family dog. Do
not leave it until the new baby arrives. It is important that
your dog associates the new baby with as few disruptions as possible.
It
is essential to ensure that your dog has a basic understanding
of good behaviour. The dog should be able to lie quietly for short
periods, not jumping up, walking on a lead without pulling and
coming when called are all essential.
Most
dogs are used to being the "baby" in the family and
may find it difficult losing this position. Get your dog used
to being ignored and left alone for short periods of time every
day. If it is your intention to exclude your dog from certain
areas of the house after the baby arrives, establish these rules
well in advance to the baby's arrival. Ideally, the dog should
be excluded from the baby's bedroom.
It
is a good idea to teach your dog to walk gently next to the pram,
but never tying the leash to the pram, and never when unattended.
The dog should also be accustomed to new items of furniture such
as playpens, carry cots and high chairs before baby arrives. If
possible get a tape recording of baby noises and play it in a
tape recorder placed where the baby will normally be so the dog
becomes socialized to these sounds. Also teach the dog the difference
between his/her toys and the baby's toys.
Make
sure that you develop a routine and stick to it when the baby
arrives. It is important that the dog receives sufficient mental
and physical stimulation. Try not to make a big deal with the
dog about the arrival of the baby.
Teach the dog how to approach the baby properly and gently.
Allow the dog to make initial investigations and approaches.
Associate
the baby's presence with positive things. Give the dog titbits
and lavish praise for desired behaviour around the baby. Do not
place the baby on the floor with the dog and never shout at or
hit your dog for approaching the baby incorrectly. Gently show
the dog what you wish him/her to do and offer a reward for responding.
Due
to the fact the a baby's immune system is not strong, ensure that
your dog is healthy and is up to date with worming and vaccinations
before baby arrives.
If
your dog has any behavioural problems, make sure that you resolve
these before baby arrives or if you are in doubt about your dogs
behaviour after your baby arrives, consult your vet who can refer
you to a local animal behaviour counselor.
NEVER
leave any baby or child unattended with any dog.
Of
course all the above rules must also apply when Grandchildren
or visitors come over here for a few weeks, where dogs are not
used to being or living with children.
Commitment,
Firmness, but kindness.
Do
you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send your problem
to DAVID THE DOGMAN. David is a Canine Behaviourist who works
and lives in Marbella, Spain.
Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388. His web site is located at: http://www.thedogman.net.
David has his own radio and TV shows, and writes for many newspapers
and magazines. David has been working with dogs for many years
and started his career in Israel, working on the Border Police.
He has been involved in all forms of training, including air sea
rescue, air scent work, and has trained dogs for finding drugs.
David has devoted the past 10 years to studying behaviour and
the very passive approach. He does not use choke chains, check
chains, or any form of aggression.
David
The Dogman is available for private consultations in your home,
for further details telephone; Tel; (95) 2883388