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A newborn needs a proper introduction especially in families
where a dog, a four-legged baby, has been the glimmer in everyone's
eye for a couple of years. Petland recommends the introduction
process begin way before the newborn arrives.
Obedience training given to your dog several months in advance
can help a great deal. If your dog understands basic commands
for sit, stay, come, and heel, then you can give some positive
instructions to your pet when the baby also occupies the home.
A dog, living with little or no exposure to children, will
need to be integrated. You can start the process by asking
the children of friends and neighbors over to your home to
play with Peppy. This way the dog will learn what kinds of
noises and actions to expect from children.
Just before the baby arrives home, it is recommended that
some of the infant's clothes, blankets, and toys be brought
home from the hospital for a sniff preview. This will familiarize
your pet with the baby.
The first introduction between dog and baby should be guarded.
Any growls or signs of dislike from the dog towards the baby
should end the session, and a professional dog trainer in
your area should be called for help. If the dog is just excited
about the meeting, then work on calming him and try again
later.
Although your dog may seem to love your newborn as much as
you do, Peppy cannot be fully trusted. Never leave our dog
and baby alone together even for a few seconds.
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