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Hi, I’m Helen Thompson, host of First Time Mum’s Chat, and as a childcare educator, I know how overwhelming the early days of motherhood can be.
Adding a family dog to the mix and introducing dog to newborn often brings even more questions and concerns, which is why I’m so excited to share this episode with you. I chatted with the incredible Aileen Cronin, a mom and seasoned Canine Behavior Consultant, to talk about how to introduce dog, whilst creating a safe, loving, and harmonious relationship between your dog and your baby.
If you’re wondering how to manage the dynamics of introducing dog to newborn, this episode is for you.
Aileen brings over a decade of experience and a unique perspective as both a mom and the founder of Baby Pack Leader. She understands the stress and challenges that come with introducing dog to newborn whilst trying to juggle your baby’s needs and also ensuring your dog feels supported, safe, and loved.
In our chat, Aileen shares actionable strategies to help you prepare your dog for the arrival of your newborn. From creating boundaries in advance to ensuring your dog doesn’t associate new rules with your baby’s arrival, Aileen provides step-by-step guidance to reduce stress and avoid common mistakes. For example, did you know that overly excited dogs can be just as risky as aggressive ones?
Aileen explains why setting limits and training even the friendliest of dogs is crucial for your baby’s safety.
We also dive into those postpartum challenges that many moms face when it comes to their dogs. You might feel overwhelmed, overstimulated, or guilty about not giving your dog the same attention you used to. Aileen shares her compassionate approach to navigating these feelings and even offers practical tips, like adding dog care services to your baby registry or creating a designated dog space to reduce chaos during those early months.
But it’s not just about safety and structure—Aileen is passionate about fostering a positive bond between your dog and your baby. She talks about how setting boundaries early can lead to a beautiful friendship as your child grows. Her real-life examples, like her own journey with her daughter and dogs, will inspire you and give you the confidence to make these changes in your own home.
This episode isn’t just about dog training—it’s about building a peaceful, joyful family environment. Whether you’re navigating baby sleep schedules, managing postpartum emotions, or simply wondering how to keep your dog from being underfoot during nighttime feeds, Aileen’s insights are invaluable.
So, if you’re a new mom feeling uncertain about how to balance your baby’s needs with your dog’s, don’t miss this episode. You’ll come away with practical strategies, confidence, and the reassurance that you can create a safe, happy home for your entire family—including your furry friend!
Click play to listen now.
What You Will Learn From This Episode
- How to prepare your dog for the arrival of a new baby with simple yet effective strategies.
- Why setting boundaries for your dog early can create a safer and more harmonious environment for your family.
- Practical tips to navigate postpartum challenges while maintaining a strong bond with your furry friend.
And much more…
Links Mentioned in the Episode
About Aileen Cronin
Aileen is a devoted mother, loving wife, and seasoned Canine Behavior Consultant. With over a decade of experience, she’s honed her expertise under the guidance of the industry’s leading educators and through hands on experience.
Her journey has led her to specialize in the intricate dynamics of dog and baby relationships, a passion ignited by her own transformative experience as a mother.
Through her venture, Baby Pack Leader, she dedicates herself to empowering expecting parents, guiding them through the transition of welcoming a new family member. Aileen’s mission transcends mere training; it’s about fostering understanding, compassion, and a deep-rooted connection within the family unit.
From preparing the family dog for the arrival of a newborn to navigating the energetic chaos of toddlerhood, Aileen provides invaluable insights and practical strategies to ensure a harmonious and joyful coexistence for all members of the family.