Paws Before Baby - Snout & About
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Paws Before Baby

12-Week Preparation Guide

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Complete

🎉

Congratulations!

A new family member is on the way

What an exciting time for your family! Preparing your dog for baby's arrival is one of the most thoughtful things you can do. With the right preparation, you're setting everyone up for a beautiful bond.

🏡 Why Preparation Matters

Dogs thrive on predictability. A new baby brings massive changes—new sounds, smells, schedules, and routines. By gradually introducing these changes before baby arrives, you reduce stress and build positive associations. This isn't about "training problems out"—it's about giving your dog the skills to feel confident and calm.

🤔 Important Questions to Consider

🚗 Transportation Changes

With a car seat now in place, will your dog's usual spot change? Practice the new seating arrangement before baby arrives so it's already normal.

🍼 Feeding Zones

Where will you feed the baby? Dogs naturally investigate new activities. Establish boundaries around feeding areas now, using gates and positive training.

👋 Greeting Behaviours

Does your dog jump up to greet people? This becomes a safety concern with a baby in arms. Now is the perfect time to teach calm greetings.

🏠 In-Home Support

Will you have visitors helping after birth? More people means more doorbell rings and excitement. Practice calm visitor protocols with family members first.

🚪 Safe Spaces

Your dog needs a comfortable retreat when things get overwhelming. Set up a cozy sanctuary area now��this becomes their happy place, not a punishment zone.

✨ The Golden Rule

Dog + Baby = Always Supervised. Even the gentlest dog should never be left unsupervised with a baby. Gates, barriers, and "eyes on" supervision protect everyone and prevent misunderstandings between species who communicate very differently.