General Dog Discussion

Expecting first child, thinking ahead about Otto and the baby introduction

My partner and we are expecting our first child in about four months, and I want to be thoughtful about how we handle the transition for Otto. He is a working-line GSD, high drive, very bonded to both of us. Not aggressive by any means, but he is a lot of dog and he takes his environment seriously.

I have already started some basics. Baby sounds playing from a speaker at low volume. Adjusting his access to certain rooms gradually rather than all at once when the baby arrives. Teaching a solid 'place' command he already knows but we are proofing it more consistently now.

What I am less sure about is the actual first introduction. Scent first before they meet in person, I have heard this, but I am curious how others have actually done it in practice. Especially those with high-drive or working breeds. What mattered most in those first few weeks for keeping everyone calm and the dog feeling secure rather than pushed aside?

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