If possible, keep the pet and child play areas as toys separate. A dog who remains master over their own space, or one that has a safe place to retreat if the baby is crawling after them, is far less likely to become territorial or aggressive.
Teaching Your Baby About Pets
Teaching your baby how to interact with the family pet is also very important. Telling the baby to be “gentle” and carefully supervising any interaction between the pet and your child will help you teach your baby how to be around the pet. As cute as it may seem, never let your child pull ears or tails. Toddlers also love grabbing long, soft fur; always intervene if the child grabs the pet and prevent it if possible.
All pets are not equal; just because your pet tolerates your toddler’s affection and play doesn’t mean that your neighbor’s pet will. Always carefully supervise your crawling baby or toddler when there are pets nearby. Even the most good natured pet can unpredictably bite.
Your veterinarian or local pet food store can give you more information on pet training programs to help ease the transition of having a new family member around the pet. They can also be a great source of products and information to help keep your home safe for both those that crawl and those who walk on four legs.
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