Expert Advice on Babies, Kids and Pets -
Andrew's Response

Mum Zone's resident Pet Expert Andrew of Hanrob is available to answer some of your questions.

Topics include: Preparing your dog for a new baby, introducing your children to a dog or cat, identifying dog or cat behaviours, what to do if a dog is aggressive towards you or your child, how to choose the right dog or cat for your family, dog training, how to deal with dog behavioural issues, sleeping arrangements for your pet, pet hygiene, desexing - when to do it, walking your dog with a pram, pet routine and exercise.

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Reader's Question

Hi, our two Labradoodles have always slept inside and been allowed to go anywhere in the house, as that is what my husband wanted. I am worried about them being inside when our baby is born in February but my husband insists on them still staying inside, what can I do? And do you think it's a problem they stay inside whilst the baby is on the floor in a bouncer etc?

Andrew's Response

Your instincts regarding this situation are spot on. Your Labradoodles have learned that they are free to roam the house as they like, and will have difficulty adjusting to the inevitable new boundaries and rules when your child arrives.

It is important your dogs understand their position in the "pack". It is always best for your dogs to have their own beds, feeding and play areas. They should look forward to interacting with your family when invited to do so, and you should have the ability to remove them from that environment if they are misbehaving. It may sound harsh, but if you have this situation in place before the baby arrives, you will avoid many problems down the track. We recommend introducing these boundaries up to three month before the baby arrives.

When these boundaries are in place, your dogs will be able to enjoy more quality time with your family. Without boundaries now, your dogs may not understand the introduction of a new baby, and will miss the attention they received. Labradoodles are very loving by nature, but also very boisterous! They will need to learn how to behave around a child. If they are suddenly locked away, or yelled at when interacting with your child too roughly, they may develop a negative feeling toward your baby. If boundaries are introduced now, and they are used to having some time by themselves and look forward to being with you, the relationship with them and your child will be a positive one.

Good luck with your new family.

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