Many owners can't help but smile when talking about their pets, as their furry friend is their first "baby" with their partner. When a newborn arrives home, owners often worry about their pet's reaction. The good news is that with the right steps and techniques, resolving this significant issue isn't difficult.
Dogs value hierarchy
Dogs live with a hierarchical mindset within their pack. Even if you believe everyone in the household is equal, dogs don't see equality as a concept; they believe each member has their own place. In most cases, dogs see themselves as protectors. If the owner uses this mindset to get the dog to accept a newborn baby, achieving harmony among everyone won't be difficult.
Dogs typically view newborns as special and important members of the family and rarely see the baby as a threat. They generally protect the baby, keeping a distance but also watching over the child's safety from time to time. On the other hand, cats' reactions are more ambiguous. They may initially show some interest in the baby and be curious as they pass by, but they usually walk away on their own afterward and try to avoid close contact.
Whether it's a cat or a dog, the best way to introduce a baby is to ensure that the changes are gradual and that the pet still feels like an important member of the family.
Prepare for your pet in advance
I recommend that owners prepare their pets before bringing a baby home. Give your pet their own designated area in the house, providing a pet bed, basket, or cat tree, etc. This area should be located in a quiet corner of the living room, allowing them some alone and peaceful time when needed. Your pet's area should make them feel safe and undisturbed by anyone.
The first step in introducing a newborn baby
While both mother and baby are still in the hospital, I would suggest the father bring home the blanket the baby used at the hospital. Place the blanket somewhere in the living room, on a chair or sofa, so the pet can become familiar with the baby's scent. Almost all pets will be interested in blankets and new smells, but don't force them. Let the pet gradually get used to the blanket and the new scent.
When a new baby comes home, take some time to introduce the baby to your pet. I suggest holding the baby and gently lowering them, letting the pet sniff the blanket and the baby's lower body to see if the pet can remember the blanket and the baby's scent. However, for hygiene reasons, I recommend avoiding letting the pet excessively lick the baby, especially the baby's face.
Another product that can help pets is aromatherapy containing pheromones . Pheromone is a special scent that only pets can detect, and this scent has no effect on humans. Pheromone is a scent naturally secreted by pets, making them feel comfortable, relaxed, and safe.
As time goes on, owners should begin allowing their pets to interact with the baby. Let the pet sniff the baby while they are lying down or playing. Try to make the cat or dog feel like they are part of the new family experience, not a substitute. Of course, owners should always supervise the interaction between the pet and the baby and not force them. Cats should not sleep in the same room as the baby, as they may snuggle into the baby's crib or cause unnecessary danger. If this cannot be avoided, owners should cover the crib with a safety net to prevent the cat from jumping in.
Don't forget to spend time with your pet.
Another important part is ensuring your pet feels like an important part of the home. Caring for a baby will be a very busy time, but don't forget to set aside ten minutes each day to interact with your pet. When the baby isn't around, allow your furry friend some alone time to play and go for walks. Also, make sure to feed your pet regularly and don't let the baby play in or near where your pet is eating.
However, it's important to remember that pets are animals, and each has its own personality. Some pets are more adaptable than others, but owners should still be cautious about any interaction between their pet and child. Generally, when introducing a newborn baby to a dog that is more prone to stress, anxiety, or fear of new environments and things (such as constantly barking during walks or being timid when strangers visit), more time, care, and attention may be needed. Owners should not ignore potential dangers or allow problems to escalate. Potential dangers include a pet growling or hissing, barking at the baby, or constantly trying to avoid contact and interaction with the baby. In these situations, owners should not force their pet to interact with the baby. Instead, make the transition gradually and avoid putting pressure on the pet or child. If you have any questions, I recommend that you contact a qualified pet trainer for assistance.
Of course, owners should encourage a gentle and peaceful approach to their pets, teaching both animals and children respect. Sometimes children are very enthusiastic and may try to touch or hold their pets, but the pets may be frightened by this sudden behavior and may even react defensively as a natural resistance. Additionally, ensure that children do not disturb the pets' resting areas and avoid disturbing their sleeping and alone time.
Pet toys should be for the pet only; children should be prevented from playing with pet toys. More importantly, children should not disturb pets while they are eating, and children should not be allowed to touch their food. Many dogs are very protective of their food, and if they feel their food is threatened, they may exhibit aggressive behavior.
Owners don't need to worry too much. With basic rules and common sense, getting your pet and child to get along is quite simple. Integrate your pet into the family and welcome them as a new member. Animals are very conscious of hierarchy, so make sure they feel useful in the home and ensure they still have alone time with their owner so they don't feel forgotten. Give your pet a safe, private space of their own. Of course, owners should also ensure that any potential dangers or situations that make the pet feel threatened are avoided. With a little luck, owners will one day witness the development of a friendship between their pet and child.
