Best way to introduce dogs to baby?

[AnnalisaJames]

Hi

I am new on here so sorry if this topic has already been discussed or if I haven't really put it in the right place!

I am due with first baby in Oct. We have 2 cocker spaniels, one dog, one bitch. Dog is 3 1/2yrs and bitch is just over a year old.

Wondered if anyone could give any advice on how to prepare them for the new arrival, also a good way to introduce them when the baby comes home? I've read dogs are generally ok with babies but once they start moving it might be more of an issue?

Grateful for any advice!

I don't have dogs myself, but have heard that before you bring the baby home, let dp bring home an item of the baby's clothing that has been worn for the dogs to sniff. They will remember the scent when you do bring baby home, as he/she will have a similar smell to you. They should accept this as you all share the same 'pack smell'.

Allow them to approach and look at/sniff the baby, under dp control if you think they will jump up and then put baby in a pram/moses basket while you make a fuss of the dogs and possibly give a treat. As long as you give the dogs lots of attention when you aren't busy with the baby they should be accepting. If they feel pushed out and not getting the same attention as before that makes them feel jealous.

I just remembered what my friend said of her bitch, after friend had brought her new baby home, she had to elbow the bitch out of the way when she changed nappies, because she wanted to lick him clean as if he were a puppy!

Thanks for the advice girlywhirly.
I have heard similar things and I guess the main point is not to make the dogs feel left out so they dislike the baby from the start.
The nappy thing is YUK! I will not be changing anywhere near the dogs for fear they will run off with a dirty nappy and make a horrible mess everywhere! I guess it might be usefull if they are sniffing round later on (when baby is a toddler) as it might be an indicator of a dirty nappy - an early warning system!
Thanks again

Totally agree with girlywhirly, I have 2 big dogs including a very jealous German Shepherd and we let them gently sniff DS when he came home from hospital and didn't exclude them and they were fine, all 3 the best of friends now (DS is 5)