Congratulations on your growing family! As you prepare the nursery, don’t forget that there’s another family member who needs some attention. Whether you have a cat, dog, or both, helping your pet(s) adjust to a new baby is crucial for everyone’s happiness and safety.
From our experience in working with families undergoing the same transition, here’s what we’ve learned that will help your pet get ready.
Start Really Early
With a baby on the way, we know that you already have a million things on your to-do list. But trust us, you want to start preparing your pet now, not two weeks before your due date.
Sudden changes stress animals out. If certain rooms will be off-limits or your dog won’t be allowed on the furniture anymore, implement these rules now. Your pet needs time to adjust without thinking the baby is the reason their world got turned upside down.
Think about the daily routine, too. Will morning walks need to happen at different times, or feeding schedules need to shift? Make the changes gradually. Dogs who are used to 6 AM walks can really struggle if that suddenly becomes 8 AM because you’re exhausted from dealing with nighttime feedings. Nobody needs that extra stress.
Get Them Used to Baby Stuff
Babies are loud. And they smell different. And nowadays, they come with what seems like a thousand different pieces of equipment.
Start playing recordings of baby sounds (crying, cooing, giggling – here’s an example from YouTube) while your pet eats or plays. Start at low volume, then gradually turn it up over a few weeks. This way, when your actual baby starts crying at 3 AM, your dog is much less likely lose their mind.
And bring out the baby gear early. Let your dog sniff the stroller and crib. For cats (who are nosy little creatures by nature), letting them explore prevents these items from becoming scary unknowns. Consider practicing stroller walks a month in advance to help your pup become a pro by the time there’s actually a baby along for the ride.
Those baby lotions and powders? Start using them around the house now. Your pet’s nose is incredibly powerful, and familiar smells make everything feel less overwhelming.
Training Tune-Up
Even the best-behaved pets benefit from brushing up on basics. Focus on the commands you’ll actually need – sit, stay, leave it, and gentle – because when you’re holding a screaming newborn and your dog decides to investigate too enthusiastically, you need them to listen immediately.
Now is the time to deal with jumping, nipping, anxiety, and similar worrisome behaviors. Please don’t wait until you’re running on 3 hours of sleep with a brand-new baby!
For high-energy dogs, ramp up exercise in the weeks leading up to delivery. A tired dog is a calm dog. And if you establish a solid exercise routine now, it’ll be easier to maintain it later (we’re always happy to help with walks!).
First Introductions
Baby has arrived, and you’re coming home from the hospital … how you handle that first meeting really matters.
Before bringing your newborn inside, have someone else hold them while you greet your pet alone. Your dog or cat has missed you terribly and needs a moment of your undivided attention. Otherwise, they’ll bounce off the walls with excitement the moment the baby comes in.
Keep your dog on a leash during the intro. Let them sniff the baby’s feet from a safe distance; keep it brief, and reward calm behavior with treats. Cats? Let them observe from whatever distance feels right to them.
First Months
In the chaos of new parenthood, your pet’s needs don’t disappear, of course. This is honestly where many families struggle.
Line up help before you need it. Whether it’s a neighbor, family member, or us, know who will help with walks and feeding when you’re completely overwhelmed. Try to maintain routines. Feed your pet at consistent times, keep up with vet appointments, and make sure they still get some quality attention. Even 10 minutes of focused play can make a huge difference in reassuring your pet that they’re still loved.
And it goes without saying that pets must always be supervised when around the new baby. No matter how gentle and trustworthy they’ve always been, even the sweetest animal can react unpredictably to an infant’s sudden movements or sounds.
The Payoff
With some preparation and patience, your pet and baby can develop an absolutely beautiful relationship. We’ve seen pets become incredibly protective and loving toward their new tiny humans. You’re not just preparing your pet for a baby; you’re setting up your child to grow up with a loyal companion and best friend!
Peak City Puppy and Dog Walking is ready to help you manage your pet’s routines during one of the most exciting times in your family’s life. Contact us today!
