Inspite of successful jack russell training, it is expected for new parents to feel apprehensive in bringing home and introducing their new bundle of joy to the resident pet. Dogs who have been the family’s baby for quite a while are more likely to feel jealous to the attention and affection the new baby receives.
There is however really no need to be worried about this because there are various simple and effective ways to train your canine friend to get used to the child:
- A few months prior to the birth of your baby, make some necessary lifestyle changes. Allow your pet to explore your baby’s sleeping area and get him used to the presence of toys, diapers, blankets and other baby stuff. Your pet should further understand that your lap is not his anymore and he can’t simply sit on it anytime.
- A dog that’s reliably trained with basic obedience such as sit, stay and down is less troublesome. However, if your pet has not yet mastered those commands, it is best to take the dog training seriously long before the baby arrives. Those commands are necessary in handling your pet in various instances.
- Before bringing home the baby (if born at the hospital), bring home the blankets first, clothing or other stuff the baby has donned or used. This is to acquaint your jack russell with the baby’s scent.
- If it’s time for the mother and the baby to come home, it is best if another member of the family is the one carrying the baby. This avoids creating undesirable encounter on the first meeting should you need to disregard him or tell him “off” or “go away”.
- The pet’s very first meeting with the baby should be a positive encounter.
A dog breed as energetic as jack russell terrier can make a family occupied, much more with the new family member. Efficient time and task management will help make things easy.