Preparing Your Furry Best Friend for Your New Arrival
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Bringing a new baby home is an exciting, life-changing event! As expecting parents, you're likely checking off lists for the nursery and the hospital bag, but there is one more family member who needs a prep talk: your dog.
With a little preparation, you can help your pup transition from "only child" to "big sibling" with a wagging tail. Here is how to make the introduction as smooth as possible.
1. The "Scent First" Strategy
Dogs experience the world through their noses. Before you even leave the hospital, have a friend or family member bring one of the baby’s worn hospital blankets or a beanie home. Let your dog sniff it at their own pace. This introduces the new "pack member" in a non-threatening way before the baby actually walks through the door.
2. Burn Off the Pre-Arrival Jitters
On the day you bring the baby home, try to have a family member or dog walker give your pup a vigorous workout. Whether it’s a long run or a game of fetch, getting that pent-up energy out will help your dog stay calm and relaxed when the "new human" finally arrives.
3. Automate Your Dog’s Needs
When you are in the "newborn haze," the last thing you want to do is realize at 10:00 PM that you’ve run out of dog food or are late giving them their flea and tick medication. Between the sleep deprivation and the busy schedule, small errands can become major stressors.
Never Run Out: Set your dog’s food on auto-delivery. This ensures a fresh bag arrives at your doorstep before the current one is empty. It’s one less thing to track and one less trip to the store with a car seat in tow.
Medicate on Time: Make sure to keep your four legged best friend healthy with auto-delivery of their flea and tick medication. Keep those creepy crawlies away from your fur baby and newborn.
Prevent Overfeeding: It is incredibly easy to lose track of kibble portions when you are exhausted. Using a timed feeder is a lifesaver. It ensures your dog gets the exact right amount of food at the exact right time, every single day, without you having to remember if you already filled the bowl.
4. Create a "Zen Zone"
Once the baby is home, aim for a calm and quiet environment. Dogs can be sensitive to the high-pitched cries of a newborn. Use white noise machines, keep your voice low, and give your dog a safe, quiet space (like a crate or a corner bed) where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Don't forget to head over to their "spot" throughout the day to show them some love!
Your New Parent "Dog Daily Checklist"
Print this out and stick it on the fridge to ensure your pup doesn't get lost in the shuffle:
[ ] Morning Feed: (Set your timed feeder so this happens without you having to think about it)
[ ] Morning Walk: 15–20 minutes to sniff and explore.
[ ] One-on-One Time: 5 minutes of belly rubs or brushing to show them they are still loved.
[ ] Fresh Water: Refresh the bowl at least twice a day.
[ ] Evening Feed: (Set your timed feeder)
[ ] Evening Potty Break: A final chance to stretch their legs before bedtime.
[ ] Inventory Check: Is the next auto-shipment on its way?
