10 year old jack Russell being introduced to my newborn daughter

by Paul
(Tampa)

I just brought my 4 day old baby Riley home and I have a 10 year old jack Russell who has always had the run of the house. My jack Maggie is very loving and has been the best dog I have ever had. I brought home a swaddle and a shirt that the baby had worn. Maggie smelled it and seemed fine. Then i brought the baby home a couple hours later. Maggie smelled the car seat and had some interest and liked the baby's leg a bit. Later when baby Riley was moving around in her little rocker bassinet Maggie took some interest and was staring at the baby interested in her movements and noises.

I'm trying to figure out how to teach the dog that baby belongs here and is not something that she should mess with. My wife is concerned and it is understandable. The dogs mannerism's concerned me some. I plan on being very careful with the two of them and I was looking for any excersises that may help their bonding.

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Sep 20, 2012
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by: Michelle

Congrats on the new addition to your family! It sounds like you are doing all the right things in terms of introducing your Jack to Riley. I think Maggie will just need a little time to get used to all the changes in the household and figure out what the heck this little new creature is.
We did something similar when we brought our son home and had our Jack smell the newborn blanket. Our dog was very fascinated with our son and then eventually grew very loving and protective of him. He is even tolerant when the baby pulls his tail although we are working hard on him not pulling!

It is important to make sure your Jack is expending her energy and continue with walks and especially long walks (hard when you are not getting much sleep!). Keep your dog on a lead when near the baby and keep the baby's nursery off limits for now.

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