Transitioning from pet parent to real parent is no easy task, especially if you have a protective pup. That’s where Cesar Millan comes in.
The dog behaviorist and co-founder of Halo Collar recently sat down for an exclusive interview with PureWow. The expert shared tips on how to properly introduce your dog to your newborn and explained that there are two key factors for the meet-cute: scent and distance.
“Bring an item that contains your baby’s scent from the hospital before bringing home the baby,” Millan told PureWow. “Have the dog sniff from a distance, while you are holding the item.”
He continued, “You also want to make sure that you introduce the dog and baby at a social distance outside. Distance means respect.”
Millan also suggested that parents establish strict boundary rules, so the dog knows where it can (and can’t) be. “You also need to create boundaries so the dog will have trust, love and respect. You can use a Halo Beacon in the crib to keep the dog away from the area,” he said. “If you condition the dog to understand that there is an invisible barrier before the baby arrives, this will let the dog know that this room belongs to its pack leader and must be respected at all times.”
BRB, sharing with fellow parents.
