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The Dog & Baby Blog/Postpartum/Top 3 Challenges After Baby's Arrival (and How to Handle Them)

Bringing a new baby into the home is such a special moment—full of joy, excitement, and, let’s be honest, a little bit of chaos. As you adjust to life with your new little one, it’s easy to forget that your dog is adjusting, too. Dogs are creatures of habit, and a newborn can shake up their world just as much as it does yours. So, if you're feeling overwhelmed about how your dog will react to this big change, you’re not alone! Here are some of the most common challenges moms face with their dogs after a baby’s arrival—and some gentle, mom-tested solutions to make the transition a little smoother for everyone.

Jealousy

Jealousy

Your dog might feel a bit left out when your attention suddenly shifts from them to a tiny, crying human who demands every ounce of your energy. It’s perfectly normal for dogs to experience some jealousy, especially if they've been your "first baby" for years.

What to Do: Make an effort to continue giving your dog attention and exercise, even if it’s in smaller bursts. A quick 5-minute game of fetch in the living room can mean the world to them. And here’s a big one: Don’t exile them during moments they used to share with you. For example, if you’re sitting on the couch breastfeeding, and your dog used to curl up beside you—let them stay! Including them in these quiet moments can make them feel secure and less anxious about the changes.

Protective Behavior

Protective Behavior

Many dogs instinctively become protective when a new baby enters the home. You might notice them sticking close to you or watching the baby like a hawk. While it's sweet that they want to be your little guardian, this can sometimes turn into guarding behavior, which may create tension or even defensive actions.

What to Do: It’s important to gently communicate to your dog that the baby is a welcome addition, not a threat. One way to do this is to make the baby a source of good things—treats, praise, and gentle affection whenever the baby is nearby. This helps your dog see the baby not as a resource taker, but as a resource giver! Positive associations are key here. Let your dog know that when the baby is present, wonderful things happen!

Separation Anxiety

Separation Anxiety

With your focus shifting to the new baby, some dogs may develop separation anxiety, feeling unsure about their place in the household. You might see them becoming clingier, following you from room to room, or displaying anxious behaviors when they can’t be near you.

What to Do: Provide your dog with engaging, independent activities to keep them occupied when you’re busy with the baby. Puzzle toys, treat dispensers, and special long-lasting chews can help. Check out this post all about this kind of enrichment. If you’re overwhelmed, consider asking for help. A dog walker, a trusted friend, or a family member who can spend some extra one-on-one time with your dog can make a world of difference. Remember: It’s okay to lean on your village during this busy time!

Remember, you’re not just bringing a new baby into the house—you’re creating a family that includes your dog, too. Be patient with both yourself and your furry friend during this transition. Dogs are incredibly adaptable, especially when they know they’re still an important part of your life. A little extra patience and a few proactive steps can go a long way in helping your dog adjust to this new, beautiful chapter.

Lean into those quiet moments when it’s just you, your baby, and your dog, sharing the start of a new family dynamic. These small, everyday connections build a foundation for a lifelong bond between your dog and your child. You’ve got this, mama!

​If you have any questions or need more guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. There are so many resources to help you and your dog through this transition—you don’t have to do it alone!

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Hi, I'm Jaime!

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​IAABC Canine Behavior Consultant

Jaime specializes in helping families harmonize the relationship between their dogs and new babies. With a compassionate, science-based approach, Jaime offers practical advice and training techniques to ensure a smooth transition for your furry friends.

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© 2024 Pawsome University, LLC