- 1). Prepare your dog in advance for any new arrivals if possible. If you are having a baby, get the dog prepared by having baby products in the house early so he gets used to the new smells. Play a baby CD so he also gets used to the sounds a new baby makes before the baby is in the house.
- 2). Give your dog plenty of attention. A dog can become jealous if your attention that once went to him is now directed towards something else, whether it be another dog, new baby or new relationship. Your dog should still get individual attention from you so he doesn't feel excluded.
- 3). Set specific schedules. Dogs are comforted by routines that are familiar to them so a regular walking and feeding schedule can help alleviate the stress of any new additions to the home that can cause jealousy. If the dog is kept active, he will have less energy for jealous or aggressive behavior.
- 4). Stage supervised meetings. A new dog should be introduced outside of the home in a more neutral setting so the dogs can interact with each other without fighting for resources. A new date should be introduced in a calm and friendly manner and the new person can give the dog a treat so the dog associates the new person with a positive experience. Meetings with a new child must always be supervised and the dog can be leashed initially if you are concerned about response.
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