Today I am back with another post regarding my preparation of Baxter for our first baby’s arrival. In particular, this one addresses how to introduce them.
Reminding readers that they can access all the posts in our baby prep series here. Should there be serious behavioral concerns or special needs for which a professional trainer should be sought out for guidance, we recommend reaching out.
My thoughts often turned towards how our dog Baxter would react when first meeting our newborn, Emma.
As I wanted the introduction to be as positive and pleasant for Baxter as possible, I planned a meeting between us that addressed both Baxter’s need to meet his new housemate comfortably and safely and mine of assuring they remain so.
If you’re planning for a similar scene, keep in mind that your strategies may need to evolve depending on how delivery goes and your recovery. Still, taking some time to strategize the first introduction rather than just letting things unfold is always beneficial.
As soon as I entered, I welcomed Bax into our home. Matt had been home several times between Ellie’s birth and our initial homecoming; therefore Bax had spent some time with him; additionally Matt was responsible for making sure Bax got out for a walk before my arrival.
As I had been gone longer than anticipated, Baxter was especially eager to greet me upon my return home. He eagerly came over and gave his greetings in person.
Even for our low-energy dog, Baxter, having a walk before I arrived home was essential in maintaining his calmness and relaxation. If your high-energy pup requires exercise before being let into your home, make sure they get their fill.
I spent some time greeting Bax and then moved into the living room – an open space where Baxter usually remains calm. If your dog gets overexcited when you return home, spend some time before the baby comes working on encouraging calm greeting behavior.
Matt and Baxter were next. Ellie was sleeping, which was part of my plan as I didn’t want Baxter’s first encounter with Ellie to be associated with her crying.
Matt took her out of her car seat and came into the living room, sitting with me on the couch. It is essential not to set Baxter down alone on either furniture or blanket, instead always having one of us holding him during his early interactions – Baxter could come up and greet Matt or sniff baby at any time; we used soft voices when talking with Bax.
Dogs take great pleasure in sniffing out something new they come across, which makes their ability to detect scent an essential factor when encountering something unfamiliar.
As part of your initial meeting between dog and baby, many experts advise bringing home a blanket from the hospital so your pup can smell them before meeting them face to face. Our trainer felt this was unnecessary: She noted: ‘Your pup has already been sniffing your child since its conception – they already know what its smells like.”
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