How to Introduce Baby To A German Shepherd Dog? Having a baby is going to change your life and part of your habits, but if you have a German shepherd or another dog as a pet, the appearance of a new member in the family can cause problems if the introduction of the newcomer to the dog is not done by way of.
Your pet has established behavior patterns and marked territories. If we suddenly introduce a baby into his life that cries and monopolizes most of the time of the other members of the house, all the patterns of the German shepherd are altered and it can cause the dog to feel jealous of the newcomer to the family. However, if the baby-dog introduction is done properly, it should not present any problem and the dog will soon see the child as one of the family and will protect him as he does with the others.
How to Introduce Baby To A German Shepherd Dog
Dogs Can Be Jealous of Babies: Regardless of the breed of the dog, the reaction that the animal will have to the presence of a new member in the family will depend on how the situation is handled, this is for all dogs like long hair german shepherd and more. There are many cases of dogs with an apparently normal character and balanced behavior that have become jealous when a new baby enters the house.
With the arrival of the baby, the German shepherd may begin to act in a different way. to attract attention and even be aggressive towards whoever you think is stealing this attention. If the dog prior to the arrival of the baby was already challenging with people or other pets who want to interact with you, he could present these symptoms with the appearance of the child.
They do this because they are afraid of losing your love and attention and this is the way on how to Introduce Baby to a German Shepherd Dog. And to keep it and/or recover it, they try to eliminate any other rival. For most other pets and adults, this is a situation they can control, but babies are unable to cope.
Prepare your dog for the arrival of the baby
The best way to prevent dog jealousy is to solve the problem before it develops, this is the most effective way on how to Introduce Baby to a German Shepherd Dog. This means setting limits, preparing routines and creating the right atmosphere for the new situation.
Among the preparations you can make are:
- Talk to a behavior specialist: Getting special help preparing a home for a new baby is vital when it comes to pet dogs. A behavioral specialist how dogs react, so they can advise you on what adjustments to make.
- Set boundaries and zones: This includes areas where the dog cannot go like the child’s room or other areas where you would like to have the baby without the dog. First of all, the dog must be clear that he cannot enter these areas without your permission. You can let him sniff around under your supervision, but make sure he leaves when asked and doesn’t come in without being told.
- Let him know the smell of the baby: After the birth, but before the mother and child arrive home, introduce the dog to the baby’s scent through a cloth or other item. Make sure he understands that the cloth is not his and that he has to come to you to smell it. Clear ownership rules are essential at this stage.
- Reinforce behaviors and rules: Make sure the pet is well behaved and in a submissive state. This is a good time to practice, correct small mistakes, and reestablish strong leadership. This also means rewarding submissive and calm behavior compared to more hyperactive states.
- Work and set a new schedule: Having a baby is going to change your life and probably the German Shepherd’s, but this can lead to insecurity and jealousy on the dog’s part. Instead of making a sudden change in habits once the baby is home, try to change habits such as the time of the walk, etc. gradually. This way the appearance of the baby will cause fewer changes in your routine.
- Socialize the dog with babies and children: If possible, allow the dog to hear your baby’s sound before your baby comes home. Also, it is good to expose your dog to new sounds, smells and energies by allowing him to interact with other children, always under supervision.
Control the first contact
Leadership and control are most needed during the first introduction. This means finding the right time for first contact with the child to maximize the dog’s chances of accepting the new baby as part of the family without becoming jealous.
To do this, follow these steps:
- Go on a long walk to drain your German Shepherd’s energy.
- Meanwhile, the rest of the family brings the baby home.
- Upon returning, pause for a moment at the door, make sure the dog is calm and submissive before entering.
- Whoever holds the baby should be in a calm and relaxed state of mind.
- Let the dog sniff at a respectful distance, but not too close at first.
- Let her slowly approach over time, so she knows the baby is another leader.
Things to keep in mind
Your dog also needs attention. never forget the dog. This doesn’t mean excessive displays of affection or new toys, just sticking to the routine. Providing your pet with long daily walks and signs of leadership will keep him happy and safe. Also have a look on german shepherd hip dysplasia for its health.
Your child will grow fast: This means that they will start to crawl, touch and interact with the world and this world includes the dog. Supervise all interactions between him and your dog, so that you both get to know each other and don’t hurt each other, we all know that babies love to pull tails!
Dogs pick up your energy and mood: If you appear excited, worried, or nervous about the impending birth and new situation, your dog will pick up on it and may reflect this by becoming restless and more aggressive.
Family Safety Always Comes First
First of all, the safety of your newborn child, as well as other children, is the most important thing of all. If, even after seeking professional advice and dog therapy, you don’t trust your dog to be around your baby, find a new home for him.
This will protect both the well-being and safety of your child and the mental well-being of your pet. It sounds like a bit drastic, but surely it is the best solution for everyone.