Preparing your dog for a new baby: The muslin cloth trick

My personal story

Many people asked me how our furry friend accepted the newest family member (this was more than 6 years ago). I admit, I was scared too. Even though I knew my dog was a sweetheart, I couldn't avoid the "What if?" questions. But in the end, it turned out that my worries were in vain.

The last month as a pair: Peaceful walks and a new routine

My preparation really began about a month before the due date, when I started my maternity leave. It was October, that beautiful, warm autumn sun, and Charli and I were home all the time. Those days were ours.

Every day we went for long but calm walks. This was the time when he also slowly got used to a different rhythm. There was no more morning rush to work; instead, we took our time for every "obstacle" (every corner, every flower) along the way. This peaceful routine helped him settle down and sense that something was changing, but in a nice, gentle way.

Dogs sense it first (even before we know!)

Even before I really started thinking about preparations, my Charli already knew. He became my shadow. Every time I sat on the couch, he would lay his head right on my belly. Their intuition is incredible – they feel the heartbeat, the warmth, and that special energy that changes in the body.

The muslin cloth trick (Must-do!)

When the moment to go to the maternity hospital arrived, we had a plan ready. Before we arrived home with the baby, I had a muslin cloth prepared. I held the baby in my arms so the cloth could soak up his scent.

My partner took this cloth home and gave it to the dog. The result? My dog sniffed it cautiously and later even slept with it. When the three of us finally crossed the threshold, the baby's scent was already completely familiar to him, and there was no tension.

Meeting and living as a new team

When we came home, we didn't forbid him anything. We let him sniff the baby (under our supervision, of course!). He was curious, but incredibly gentle.

The most important thing for me was that the dog didn't feel pushed aside. We let him always be part of us – when we were nursing, changing diapers, or cuddling. If the dog is part of the action, there is no room for jealousy. Today we are an inseparable team. Of course, other challenges come later, when you have to teach a toddler not to pull the dog's ears, but that’s a different story!

Advice for all future moms: Make the most of that last month for bonding. To keep your dog occupied while you rest, prepare some new dog treats or a cheese chew that will keep him busy while you catch those precious minutes of sleep.