How to Prepare Your Dog for a New Baby

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   Step 1: Start early

   Begin preparing several months before the due date. Gradual changes are easier for dogs than sudden ones after the baby arrives.

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   Step 2: Adjust routines in advance

   If walk times, sleeping places or attention levels will change, shift them gradually now. Practise short periods of your dog resting alone in a comfortable area.

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   Step 3: Polish key skills

   Strengthen settle on a mat, leave it, wait at doors and loose lead walking. Practise walking your dog beside an empty pram.

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   Step 4: Introduce baby sounds and items

   Play quiet recordings of baby sounds while giving treats, increasing volume slowly. Set up baby furniture early so your dog can investigate calmly.

   Good to know: Install baby gates before the baby arrives so your dog gets used to them.

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   Step 5: Plan a calm first meeting

   Bring home a blanket with the baby's scent first. When the baby arrives, greet your dog calmly without the baby, then allow a sniff from a distance while your dog is on lead.

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   Step 6: Always supervise

   Never leave a dog and baby alone together, however gentle the dog. Give your dog safe places to retreat. If your dog shows worry or growling, contact a qualified behaviour professional.

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