Dogs and Babies or Children

Kids and dogs seem to be natural pals, but the introduction of a new baby into a family that already has a dog takes some preparation and planning. Many dog owners, especially those who do not yet have children, dote on their pets and lavish them with a lot of attention. While this is terrific, there is no doubt that with the new baby will come household changes, so smart parents-to-be make the effort to prepare their best furry buddy for the needed adjustments.

Although there are occasional stories in the newspapers about dogs attacking babies, generally this is quite rare and most pet owners don't have problems. However, thinking about how your dog may react and minimising the disruption can really help.

To reduce the upset, making changes to your usual routine before the new baby arrives can be beneficial. For example:

• Cut down the number of walks you have each day, as you'll probably have to do so when the new baby has arrived.
• Watch out for any behaviour or habits that could cause difficulties, like frequently jumping up or pulling on the lead. If you do notice such habits, slowly work on them, using treats as rewards.
• Teach your dog to be quiet around the house and get him used to sitting still and staying still. When you're dealing with a baby, this will be very useful.
• Have a dummy run and see how your dog might react to a baby. It sounds mad, but wrap a doll in a blanket, nurse it and give it attention.
• Encourage your dog not to go upstairs, especially if your nursery will be there.

Planning Ahead

It is important for dogs to understand and obey their owners, so dogs who have completed at least basic obedience training are apt to make the easiest adjustment to the addition of a new family member. While good family pets needn't have the skills to win ribbons or impress show judges, it is important that they can follow simple commands such as "sit" and "stay." Once they have these behaviours down pat, expectant parents should participate in "practice sessions" with their dog to get the canine used to the presence of a baby. While it may feel a bit silly, many parents find that purchasing a baby doll and then interacting with it as they would with their baby - rocking, cradling, swaddling, talking - whilst asking the dog to remain in a sitting position can help the dog to practice and master good behaviours before the arrival of the new baby. After laying the "baby" down, parents should reward the dog's obedience with affectionate interaction and a small treat.

Households of adults are very different from those that include babies and children. Babies make noises and movements that dogs don't always understand, but by introducing them gradually, dogs can learn to accept new babies with less anxiety. If they feel that their dog is gentle natured and ready to be introduced to real babies, arranging visits with the small children of friends and family members can help with the transition. Short, well-controlled interactions can help dogs to get used to the sometimes loud and unpredictable nature of small children.

It's also important that dogs get accustomed to a bit less attention than they may be used to before a new baby's arrival. For a few months before the due date, dog owners may want to gradually decrease the time that they spend interacting with the dog each day, since even the best-intended pet owners are bound to be a bit short on time once the baby is born. It's important that the dog doesn't learn to associate the diminished attention with the baby, so adapting the household schedule in advance is wise.

Similarly, areas of the house that the dog will be kept from after the baby's arrival, such as the nursery, should be made off-limits beforehand. Every step that can be made to get the dog accustomed to the changes in advance will make life that much easier once the baby has joined the family.

Bringing Baby Home

Once the baby is born, there are a few things that new parents can do to help their dog be ready to meet the newest family member. While Mum is still in the hospital, a blanket or baby outfit that has the newborn's scent should be introduced to the dog, helping it to become familiar with the baby. On the day that the baby comes home, Mum should plan to give the dog a little extra attention immediately upon arrival, letting Dad hold the baby (preferably in a separate room). It is perfectly natural that the dog will be excited to see Mum - after all, she's been away - so spending a short time playing together will reassure the pup that Mum is glad to see it.

When you do introduce your dog to your baby, have him on a leash and view the baby from a distance at first. He'll probably want to sniff and may want to get a closer look, but give him a treat for viewing from a distance.

Repeat this process several times during the first couple of days and don't leave your baby alone with your dog until you're completely at ease. If you still don't feel 100% comfortable after a while, then you could consider putting up a child safety gate for added protection.

The important thing is to treat your dog in the same way as normal. Feed him at the same times, take him for his usual walks, fuss over him and give him attention. But be clear of boundaries too and reward him for good behaviour. In most cases, babies and dogs do get on fine, but if your dog has shown previous behaviours such as aggression, killing cats or other animals or is known to not get on with children, then seek expert advice.

Health-wise, children can't catch dog diseases and are protected if dogs have been immunised, so they're safe from that point of view. The only thing to remember is that they can catch worms and get flea bites, so ensure you have your dog wormed and keep it flea-free.

Life at Home

Once it is clear that that family dog doesn't intend the baby any harm, parents can get on with establishing a routine that includes time for the two to interact. While parents surely hope that their children will become great buddies with the family pet, it is important to keep safety in mind at all times. Dogs, even the gentlest ones, should never be left unattended with babies.

The crying and flailing that babies do can make dogs anxious, and nervous dogs can sometimes behave unpredictably. Even as babies grow into toddlers, parents need to supervise their time with the family dog. Curious toddlers often tug or poke at dogs, not yet understanding that the dog may not like such attention. With time and care, dogs and kids are likely to grow to love one another, but it is up to parents to see that they make this transition slowly and safely.

Buying a Dog

If you're thinking of buying a dog and already have a family, then it's still important to ensure they'll all get on. Before you part with your cash, check that:

• The dog has no record of aggression or killing animals.
• The dog is not known to not get on with children.
• If it's a puppy, consider how you'll train it.

Taking your children to see the dog will clearly help identify which animals they'll get on with, but if you've got an infant at home, bringing the dog home to see how you all cope before making a firm decision can be useful. First impressions are important, and if the dog seems to take a dislike to your children, then you may have to find another dog.

Which Breeds Are Best?

All dogs living with children, need stringent training and handling, but some breeds are considered to be more child-friendly or suitable than others. The article Safe Dog Breeds For Children on the SaferPets website gives some useful pointers and valuable tips.