Baby’s Best Friend: Preparing Your Pet For Your Baby’s Arrival
Welcoming a new baby into your home is an exciting time, but it can also bring significant changes—not just for you, but for your furry family members as well. Pets, just like us humans, thrive on routine and familiarity, so preparing them for your baby’s arrival is an important step to ensure a smooth transition for everyone. As a postpartum doula, I’ve helped many families navigate this process. Here are some practical tips to get your pet ready for the newest member of your family!
Why Preparation Matters
Introducing a baby to your pet without preparation can lead to anxiety, confusion, or even behavioral issues. By taking proactive steps, you can help reduce your pet’s stress (and yours too!), foster positive association with your pet and baby, and help create a safe environment for both your baby and fur baby.
Start Early: Gradual Adjustments
1. Familiarize Your Pet with New Sounds and Smells
Play Baby Sounds: Use recordings of a baby crying, cooing, and laughing at a low volume, gradually increasing the sound over time.
Introduce Baby Scents: After the baby arrives, bring home items like blankets or clothing that carry the baby’s scent. Then, under supervision, allow your pet to sniff and investigate these items. This will allow your pet to smell your baby and their hormones, familiarizing them with your baby.
2. Adjust Your Pet’s Routine
If you anticipate changes to your pet’s feeding, walking, or play schedule, implement these adjustments weeks before the baby’s arrival. Gradual changes help your pet adapt without associating the disruptions with the baby. Before the baby arrives, start walking your pet with the stroller you will use. This will introduce them to the stroller and get them used to it being included on the walks. If your dog usually sits in the backseat and will have to transition to a different area due to car seat placement, make sure you take a few rides with them to get them used to their new spot.
3. Create Safe Spaces
Designate areas in your home where your pet can retreat for quiet time. Ensure these spaces are comfortable, easily accessible, and off-limits to the baby.
Similarly, establish baby-only zones to keep your child safe once they start crawling.
Training and Reinforcement
1. Practice Basic Commands
If you haven’t already, reinforce commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” These will be invaluable for maintaining control over your pet when your baby arrives.
2. Work on Desensitization
Practice handling your pet in ways they may experience with a baby around, such as gentle tugging on fur or ears. Use treats and praise to create positive associations with these interactions so that when your baby is more mobile and interactive with your pet, they will be used to it.
The First Introduction
When it’s time to bring your baby home, a calm and controlled introduction is key:
Greet Your Pet First: After being away, greet your pet calmly without the baby in hand. This helps ease any excitement or anxiety.
Allow Sniffing: Once your pet is calm, allow them to sniff the baby from a safe distance or while the baby is in a car seat. Use treats and praise to reinforce positive behavior.
Supervise All Interactions: Never leave your pet and baby unsupervised. Even the most well-behaved pets can be unpredictable around newborns. Better safe than sorry!
If your pet struggles to adjust or shows signs of stress, such as excessive barking, hiding, or destructive behavior, seek advice from a professional trainer or veterinarian. Dog Meets Baby is also a great resource and has tons of practical tips on their social media pages! Early intervention can prevent issues from escalating.
Your pet is an important part of your family, and with a little preparation, they can adapt to the changes that come with a new baby. By easing the transition and fostering positive interactions, you can ensure a harmonious home for everyone.
Have you introduced a baby to your pet? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
Until Next Time!
Aiesha Draughton
Postpartum Partners
Aiesha is a postpartum doula in Charlotte, NC
