Dear Labby,
I am a 5 year old Bichon Frise. I am an only child and quite spoiled.
I think my people are planning a surprise for me! I wandered into the guest bedroom last night and I saw a shiny, pink beautiful crate and a basket of toys. Only problem is that the crate has legs on it. With no doggie steps around, it will be impossible for me to climb into the crate.
The room also has a basket of stuffed animals and toys. However, the stuffed animals have no fur. And the squeaky toys make this terrible rattling noise; which scares me.
What has happened? Do my parents suddenly have bad taste and no common sense? Oh and guess what Dear Labby? I overheard my people talking about getting a ‘Bundle of Joy’! Undoubtedly, something for me! Lets hope it is something trés chic!
Signed
Babied Bichon
Dear Babied Bichon
Wake up and smell the Cafe Au Lait!!!! The setup you were describing in the guest bedroom is not for a’ babied bishon dog’, it’s for a baby human!
That it not a dog crate. It is something called a crib! It is used as a resting place for a human infant. As for the creepy basket of toys, those are dolls and baby rattles! These are amusements tailored to a different species.
Don’t panic. I’m not saying that you’re being replaced by a human baby. But let’s face it you’ve got a new addition to the family. You should expect a lot of adjustments. And please please be on your best behavior when you meet the baby. Be a ‘non chien’ my French friend.
Here’s some advice for your people.
When the baby comes home, have mom enter the house first without the little human creature. Next, they should introduce you to the baby’s items (ie. his clothing, a blanket or toy). That way you can sniff them and investigate and only after that should you meet the baby. Tell your people there is no need to rush this process.
Maintain Usual Routine
Make sure that your owner keeps your routine the same as it has always been when it comes to feeding, walking and playing. We don’t want the baby to cause any disruption in your lifestyle. That may cause resentment on your part, especially cuz you’re used to being babied!
The goal is for you to have no ‘detriment’ to having this new addition in the household. Only benefit.
Never Alone with Baby
Finally, make sure you’re never alone with the baby. And you really shouldn’t sleep in the baby’s room. That way there’s no chance of misunderstandings.
Quiet Place & Training
One last bit of advice, Babied Bichon, is that someday that little human infant baby will grow up and be able to move around. First on four paws like you! But this crawling will turn into walking on two paws just like your people.
During these times, the baby may try to reach out and grab you. He may touch you abruptly and unexpectedly! Don’t growl and bare teeth… Just grin and bear It.
You should have your people prepare you for this with the proper training. Also they should find you a quiet place for you to hang out when the baby is crawling and running around the house.
Sorry your bedroom renovation didn’t turn out as you had planned. As for the ‘Bundle of Joy’ you are about to receive, I recommend you make the best of it and you will grow to love the experience.
For more tips on preventing Dog Aggression to Babies go to our Behavior Problems Solving Tips section
