Expert: Kim Wingate - 10/6/2009

Question
I have a toy poodle puppy and just found out a few weeks ago I am pregnant. I don't want to get rid of my dog but is this going to be a huge problem what should I do?

Answer
Hello Quila,
Your dog shouldn't be a problem with your child as long as you work with your dog now and teach him/her some house manners.  You should start your dog in an Obedience class, or at least teach the dog Sit, Down, Stay, and Come Here.  Teach her room bounderies such as "Stay Out of {Babies Room}" or "Stay In the Kitchen".  
Also, if you haven't started getting her used to a crate, this is a good thing for her to learn.  Start by feeding her in her crate or putting her in her crate for short periods of time to get her used to being in it.  When she is in the crate, totally IGNORE her.  Don't look at her, or acknowledge her, and really don't give her any attention when she is fussing.  When you are ready to let her out of the crate, make sure she is quiet or she doesn't get out.  Give her a toy or treat before she goes in the crate so that she will have something to do when she is in there.  A tee shirt that you have slept in for a couple of days, will have your scent on it and that may make her more comfortable.  

Most dogs do really well when their "person" has a baby.  They come to see that baby as part of their pack and will protect it.  You just have to make sure that the dog realizes that the baby is YOUR property and therefore the dog has to respect the baby just like she respects you.  

This might sound funny, but get a baby doll and treat it like you would the new baby.  Let the dog smell it and watch you interact with it so that she will get used to seeing you with the baby and when you bring your real baby home the dog will be used to all thats going on.  

When the real baby does come, bring home a blanket that has the babies smell on it and show it to your dog.  Let her get the scent of the baby and she will recongise it when you bring the baby home.  

I hope this helps and congradulations to you.  If you have other questions for me, please feel free to ask.

Thanks for using AllExperts.com,
Kim