New parents quite suddenly – to the dog anyway – shift their attention from dog to baby. This often stresses out and confuses their dog. He may then try to get that attention back by barking, jumping up, or stealing and chewing baby items, especially ones that have an odor (pacifiers, used diapers, etc).
Here’s what to do:
- Teach your dog to walk next to the stroller – he’ll need plenty of exercise plus the routine of daily walks.
- Let your baby and your dog visit, always under your close supervision. The more they are together, the better behaved and less stressed your dog will be.
- Never, ever leave your dog and your child alone together. Ever.
- Interrupt your dog if he is chewing on one of the baby’s things, give him an acceptable chew toy, and praise him when he takes it.
- Its never too early to begin teaching your child to leave the dog’s dish and toys alone.
- If your dog growls or snaps at your child, call a dog trainer for professional help immediately!