04/17/2026
Big newsโฆ weโve welcomed the newest member of our pack! ๐พ๐ผ๐
As a dog trainer, this past week has been a reminder of just how important preparation is when youโre expecting. No matter how well-trained your dog is, itโs only fair to ๐๐ฝ๐๐ to be gradually and thoughtfully introduced to such a big life change.
โจHere are a few tips:โจ
๐พ ๐๐ซ๐๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐จ๐
โข Schedule vet and grooming appointments early. Stock up on food, chews, and meds.
โข Gradually desensitize them to new sounds, movements, and baby gear.
๐ ๐๐๐ฏ๐ ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ง
โข Create a plan (and a backup!) for your dog during labor and postpartum.
โข Arrange walks, daycare, or help from friends/family to meet your dogโs needs.
โก ๐๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐๐ง๐๐ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ
Prevention and supervision are critical!
โข Acclimate your dog to baby gates and consider dog zones and a thoughtful home setup for structure and safety.
โข Gradually adjust sleeping spots and routines as needed.
๐ฏ ๐๐ฎ๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐ข๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ค๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฌ
Reinforce behaviors that will set your dog up for success:
โข Responding reliably to their name or recall from distractions
โข โPlaceโ cues to create positive personal space boundaries (especially with little humans)
โข Loose-leash walkingโeven with a stroller!
We have two dogs, and while one naturally stepped into the โbig sisterโ role ๐ฅน, our geriatric pup is on a slower, tailored introduction planโbecause every dog deserves an approach that sets the whole family up for long-term success ๐ฅฐ
๐ค๐พ Preparing your pup for a new arrival and not sure where to start? ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ โIโll share a few of my favorite step-by-step courses ๐๐ป
This is such a special season for our family, and Iโm so grateful to share it with all of you ๐
