Introduction key for dogs, children

[bigdoglover]

The London Free Press

By Ann Howland

Many parents are concerned about introducing a new dog to their child, or bringing a new baby home to meet the family dog.

According to Lynn Young of Ottawa's Dogma Dog Training, dogs do not get jealous of children, but are confused by the change in routine and no longer being the centre of attention. Also, children often don't recognize when a dog is uncomfortable being handled, and may push the animal beyond its limits. Before bringing baby home, parents should:

- Acclimatize the dog to regular use of a crate, even when people are home.

- Walk with a stroller and encourage people to look in while rewarding the dog for sitting quietly.

- Vary the dog's routine.

- Associate good things with baby noises, such as feeding with crying baby sounds in the kitchen.

- Tire the dog out with a long run before baby comes home. The dog should have a chew toy in his crate as mom and baby get settled.

- When the dog comes out of the crate, he should be dragging a leash; if he gets too excited he can be put back in his crate until he calms down.

Occasionally, Young says, a relationship between the dog and the child will be unworkable. Parents should look for the following signs:

- The dog does not want to stay in the same room with the child and leaves voluntarily.

- The dog turns away from the child and yawns a lot when the child approaches or is nearby.

- The dog growls or snaps at the air when the child gets too close.

- The dog stops eating or starts to urinate in the house from stress, or chews excessively.

These are signs the dog is very stressed about the routine change, and the owners should seek professional help. Until then, dog and child should remain separated, Young says.

[hipster]

So true! Good post.