Introducing a pet to a new baby is similar to introducing a new pet to an existing household of pets or even introducing a new baby to its siblings.  It is probably best to proceed slowly and gradually.  Just as an older sibling may feel jealous for no longer being the center of attention, a pet, especially a dog may react negatively to the new family member.

Long before the baby arrives, practice basic obedience skills with your dog so that it will consistently obey you.  You will not have time to refine a dog’s responsiveness to your commands after the child arrives.  You must be able to control your dog in the presence of the baby (as well as elsewhere.)  The new baby could be injured if the undisciplined excited pet accidentally bumps or scratches the child.  Frequent nail trims are prudent.

Keep your pet away from the baby when the baby first comes home.  Wait several days before the introduction.  In the interim offer the dog a blanket or article of clothing containing the baby’s scent.  Give the dog positive reinforcement in the presence of the item with the scent.  You might even put the scented item in the dog’s bed.

When you finally make the introduction, keep the dog on a short leash, have one person control the animal and another person hold the baby.  Over a period of several days bring the dog, on its leash, closer to the baby.  During these sessions always give the dog positive reinforcement.  Finally, after about fourteen days of these meetings, carefully let the dog off the leash.  Depending upon the personality of the dog, a muzzle may be advisable until the dog becomes comfortable with the baby.  Do not leave the baby alone with the animal.

As the baby matures and is able to crawl or walk be aware that your dog may actually fear the child.  Realize that the two creatures are at approximately eye level to each other.  When the child starts moving towards the pet, the pet may feel threatened and act defensively.  You will need to supervise their playtime so that the little hands that tug, poke and pull do not get nipped or worse.  Eventually, the bond should develop and the investment of time you made with your pet should be rewarded.  Finally, remember that when you visit family and friends, they may have pets that will need to be introduced to the infant or toddler.  You should take the same or greater precautions with these animals that you did with your own pets.