Pregnant and Dog Training

Many times, I have been called to a client’s home to help alleviate issues stemming from the stress that had arisen because–a baby was on the way OR had already arrived! As human’s, we mean well, but we tend to be under the grave misconception that the stress we feel does not translate to our dog. And having a baby is one of the most wonderfully stressful times that we will experience in our lives. Whether we are prepping for their arrival or, they are already here–let’s face it–we are in a constant state of stress at one level or another. Yes, as time progresses and we get into a routine, the bulk of this stress tends to subside. But while we were in the process of ‘figuring it all out’, were we giving attention where attention was due to that other member of our family? You know, the one with four legs and the facial expressions that are to die for? Did we atany point consider including them in the preparation process? Or, are we now just in a constant state of stress AND feeling guilty on top of it because now we suddenly don’t know what to do with this four legged love of our life who is now ‘suddenly’ acting out?

Stress and guilt– your dog senses these two emotions more than you may realize. The lack of balance that these two emotions bring to the table almost always results in issues. Your dog thrives on balance and leadership. So the best way to help our dogs transition into change–aka the arrival of Junior–is to be as proactive with them as we are with ourselves throughout the preparation process. What does this mean? Take this time to evaluate areas in your dogs behavior that may benefit from a little improvement. By building on your dog’s obedience and structure, you are not only improving your relationship with him, but you are creating a calmer dog who’s listening skills will be solid and up to par when that huge lovable distraction becomes an ever present reality. When your dog knows what to do, and is included in the process with you in a balanced way, they transition into change better. This means, you will be less likely to experience any sort of major issues–which makes bringing a baby into your home that much more of an enjoyable experience.

Why do I bring this up now? Because I am four months away from bringing a baby home myself! I am in the process of acknowledging what areas in my dog’s life could use some improvement. Yes–dog trainers dogs are not perfect! As I brush up on certain skills with my dog, I am reminded that this work is what will help me maintain a state of calm and balance when the baby comes and my attention will be elsewhere. I know that my dog will be better off too, which I know will help alleviate any guilt or stress factors.

Pregnancy brings a host of emotions and actions with it. We don’t look the way we want. Our clothes don’t fit. We are happy and sad at the same time. We don’t move as fast as we used to. We think a million thoughts at once, and forget them just as quickly. We put the cereal in the fridge and the milk in the pantry. We leave our keys in the door. The formation of basic sentences becomes an arduous task on a day to day basis. The struggle is real! These are things that we just can’t control. But, what we do have control over is that cutie patootie who stands by us through all the craziness. Who does not judge us, but loves us just as much as they ever did.  And, who feels our stress just as much as we do. So, let’s help each other. Let’s work on our stress by achieving some balance–and when the next chapter in our lives happens–we will be ready for whatever comes!