Episode 46: Dogs & Newborns-Introducing Your Dog To Your New Baby

Although dogs and cats are often portrayed as enemies, if introduced carefully, they can actually get on extremely well. If either pet or both have lived with the other in a previous home, then the introduction process is likely to be easier. However it is still a good idea to take things slowly by following this advice –  a gentle introduction is far safer than a rushed one, and will hopefully result in both pets becoming good friends. 

If your dog follows you everywhere then you’ll know what it’s like to be tailed by a familiar four-legged shadow around your house, whether you’re moving from room to room, cooking in the kitchen or even using the bathroom. Having a constant companion can be comforting, endearing or sometimes downright annoying, but why does your dog follow you everywhere and is it normal?

Our dogs are often seen as part of the family, and saying goodbye to them can be an extremely tough and emotional time. Please rest assured that there's pet bereavement support out there to help, from knowing the right time to grieving after the death of your pet. Tune in as we discuss some ways to navigate through your emotions at this challenging time.

Few things are more exciting in life than the birth of a new baby. It’s a special time for everyone involved, but it can be stressful too – especially if you have pets. Tune in on how to prepare your dog for the arrival of your new baby, and how best to introduce them when the time comes.

Just like humans use their voices, dogs bark for many different reasons. Some are somewhat useful, like warning an intruder or asking to go out to the toilet. But other reasons like barking for attention can get annoying pretty quickly. Tune in for some easy to follow methods to help make your life more 'woof' free

Some dogs may prefer the safety of their own home, and aren't always comfortable in new environments. Others may be frightened by the sound and vibrations of the motor, or recall that the last time they were in a car, they ended up at the veterinary clinic. Wherever their phobia comes from, you can help them to associate your car with positive experiences. A little time, patience, and a lot of treats can help your dog learn to enjoy car rides ― or at least tolerate them a little better.

Many dogs jump up and grab their leash at the word “walk” with wagging tails and excited faces. But some dogs don't seem as thrilled to go on a leashed adventure. Why is this? And how do you convince a dog to walk if they don’t want to? Stay tuned into this episode for tips and advice on how to get those paws walking in the forward direction.

There are certain times during the development of your puppy’s brain when they are totally accepting of new things, and when you can help them become the friendly and outgoing companion you’ve always dreamed of, without the fears and phobias so many dogs go on to develop as they get older. Managing these early encounters and situations well will be important for your dog’s behaviour and your future life together.

Dogs and hot summer days aren’t a great combination.  Because dogs can’t sweat through their skin like humans can, they rely on panting and ditching excess body heat through their paw pads and nose.  But there’s a lot we can do to keep our furry friends cool and comfortable when the sun really gets its hat on. Stay tuned!

Digging is a natural behaviour so we must start early in teaching our dogs, when and where to dig. We can enrich our dogs from the outset by putting into place areas and equipment that they can exhibit natural behaviours while staying safe and having fun. Stay tuned on how to save your garden whilst allowing natural behaviours to still occur.