Bringing a new baby home can be an exciting and overwhelming experience, and it’s important to make sure that your large breed dog is comfortable and safe around the new addition to your family. Here are a few tips for safely introducing your large breed dog to a new baby:

Pro Tips:

1. Gradually prepare your dog for the new arrival. Start by introducing your dog to baby items, such as a crib, stroller, and diaper bag. You can also play recordings of a baby crying at a low volume to help your dog get used to the sound. Gradually increase the volume of the recordings over time to help your dog become more accustomed to the sound.
2. Set boundaries and rules for your dog. Make sure your dog understands that the baby’s belongings and space are off-limits. You can do this by using a gate or baby door to block off the baby’s room, or by keeping the baby’s belongings out of reach. It’s also important to establish a “no jumping” rule to prevent any accidental knocks or falls that could harm the baby.
3. Keep your dog’s routine as consistent as possible. A new baby can bring many changes to a household, but it’s important to try to maintain your dog’s normal routine as much as possible. This can include feeding and exercise times, as well as any other regular activities your dog enjoys. Maintaining a consistent routine can help reduce any stress or anxiety your dog may be feeling.

More:

1. Supervise all interactions between your dog and the baby. It’s important to never leave your baby and dog alone together, at least until you feel confident that your dog is comfortable and well-behaved around the baby. This includes making sure your dog is not left unsupervised in the same room as the baby, even if the baby is sleeping in a separate area.
2. Reward good behavior. When your dog is calm and well-behaved around the baby, make sure to give plenty of praise and rewards, such as treats or toys, to reinforce positive behavior. This can help encourage your dog to continue exhibiting good behavior around the baby.
3. Seek help if needed. If you’re concerned about your dog’s behavior around the baby, or if you’re having difficulty adjusting to life with a new baby and a large breed dog, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional dog trainer or a veterinarian. They can provide guidance and support to help you navigate this new stage of your life with your furry friend.

You got this!

A dog and a baby make the perfect pair, one to protect and one to care. With patience and love, they’ll learn to share and the bond they create will be beyond compare.

We have researched and compiled the best available training methods for your use in our 2023 Dog Training Products Purchasing Guide.

Overall, introducing your large breed dog to a new baby can be a smooth and enjoyable process if you follow a few simple steps. First, gradually prepare your dog for the new arrival by introducing them to baby items and playing recordings of a baby crying. Next, set clear boundaries and rules for your dog, such as keeping the baby’s belongings and space off-limits and establishing a “no jumping” rule. It’s also important to try to maintain your dog’s normal routine as much as possible, as a new baby can bring many changes to a household.

Additionally, make sure to supervise all interactions between your dog and the baby, and reward good behavior with praise and treats. If you’re having any difficulties or concerns, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional dog trainer or a veterinarian. By taking these precautions and establishing clear boundaries and rules, you can help ensure that your large breed dog and new baby can coexist safely and happily in your household.