Preparing Your Dog for a New Baby

A baby is life changing for everyone, including pets. As you’re preparing for baby’s arrival, take steps to prepare your dog for this big change.

Your dog may become nervous or fearful hearing a baby’s cry. Play audio of baby sounds and slowly increase the volume over time to familiarize your dog with these new sounds.

Carry a doll around the house to see how your dog reacts to cues when your hands are full. Practice responding to cues like “sit,” “down” or “wait” verbally and from a distance.

Reward calm, quiet behavior, and ignore unwanted behavior. Read more tips.

– Meagan Montmeny, SPCA Tampa Bay