•
NATURAL
PET CARE ARTICLES •
• PET
CARE PRODUCTS •
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.
|
| Pamper
Your Natural Pet at
the Balter Catalogue Company - Living is
only natural; let us help you live it more
naturally! |
|
|
|
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
