Playful Dog & a Baby - Help!

A couple things. Walking. and... More walking.

My baby was always up early. I walked the dog and took her along, often in a back carrier. When it was too cold, I just left her home with my husband, and walked the dog.

On days I'd be home late (regularly scheduled), I had a young adult neighbor take my dog for a walk.

The first thing I did after I came home was walk him again, even if it was a short walk.

Late at night, I took him on a longer walk. I loved my alone time. I loved walking.

The dog and my baby grew to be best friends. The kids incorporated the dog into their play, dressed him up as a reindeer around Christmastime, "harnessed" him, and had him pull them around in sleds. My daughter grew to absolutely adore the walks with the dog, looking for signs of spring, watching the seasons change, learning about birds and plants....

Taking care of the dog was not a drain on family time. It was a part of both family time, and a part of "me" time.

First, and most importantly, the dog needs an outlet for that energy. He's your first child, and he is not disposable. You don't give up a family member simply because your life changes. Would you do the same if your child became more demanding and that didn't fit into your lifestyle? Our prior responsibilities and commitments do not magically disappear with the addition of a child.

Believe me, I know it's hard. I had 4 large dogs and 5 cats when my first child was born. One dog as passed away since then. Our pets are high needs due to the type of rescue I had been doing for many years. I took in special needs animals, so that's what we have here. These are pets with medical and behavioral issues that nobody else would have. Each of was given zero chance of adoption.

There are other options. Consider daycare for your dog, where he can play with other dogs and burn off some energy. Be sure to check with the facility to make sure they're not just going to crate your dog all day too. Obviously, he could be crated at home. Believe it or not, some places actually just crate the dog and call it daycare. It makes no sense. If daycare doesn't work for you, hire someone to come in during the day to take him for a midday walk/run. There are plenty of pet sitters in the area who will do this at a very reasonable rate. Be sure to check to make sure they are licensed/bonded for your own protection. DO NOT just hire some neighbor to do it. That's a very quick way for your dog to disappear, get hit by a car or to have someone sue you for injuries when they do something stupid.

I know it's hard, but you CAN make this work without breaking up your family. Everything in routine life requires a bit more thought once you add a baby, but doing what's right for everyone will truly pay off in the long run.

I'm pregnant with my second child. My son is now 19 months old. We have 3 dogs and 5 cats, all of them special needs. If I can do it, anyone can.

Edited to comment on another person's response:
NEVER use an invisible fence as a primary fencing system. If you have an existing barrier fence, adding an invisible fence as a back-up system for dogs who are prone to fence jumping is great. It should never, ever, ever be used without other fencing,though. For one, they do not keep out other animals, which may attack your dog, leaving your dog no ability to escape if attacked. Second, they do fail. I have known 3 dogs who have been hit by cars thanks to their invisible fence system. I have known many more who just disappear from such yards. It's just not worth the risk.

Dogs need consistency and exercise. Without it, they tend to misbehave a bit more. I have a 90 lb lab and once the baby came felt the same way. However, I made a commitment when I bought him and now I'm trying my best to honor it. Every morning I take my 8 month old out in the stroller or baby bjorn and we do a 30 min walk or ball with our dog. I also do the same thing later on in the afternoon. I know it seems a bit much, but it's better for everyone in the long run. You can also investigate doggie daycares where your dog can play and play. You could also call a dog walker for a daily walk. I've done all of these things to give me some sanity. Bottom line, dogs take work, just like children. You'll get more exercise too and you 4 month old will enjoy the walks. You just need to include the dog's exercise into your daily schedule - it will make a HUGE difference!

I would look into hiring a dog walker to come by a few times a week and walk your dog mid day (i actually used to do this for a living). There are several dog walking/ pet sitting businesses in town that offer reliable and services...your dog will get a nice long walk midday, so when you get home, you have one less thing to worry about - the dog gets a bit of attention and will be calmer around the baby.

just my 2 cents...i hate to hear about folks giving up a dog because he is energetic. with boundaries and supervision, I think any dog with a good temperament will learn appropriate behavior around a baby and child...

Just set boundaries for the dog (like put a baby gate up and quarantine him to a part of the house where the baby doesn't play) until your child is old enough to handle being with him.

Hi J.,

I have two thoughts. I don't know if they will help, but here goes. We have a dog who was less than a year old when our son came home. A friend who really understands dogs visited two months later. Our dog had decided that he was above our son in pack order. He would literally steal food off my son's high chair as my son was eating!

My friend explained that dogs want to be part of the pack, and that they will perceive someone as alpha. It's key that they understand they are last in the pack. Our pack at that time was my husband, myself, our son and our dog. She suggested a couple of things to do. They have worked, and now my son is almost five -- and we still have the dog.

One of the things that communicates that to them is when members of the pack eat. So here's what my friend started us doing. We always feed the dog after we are done eating. We put some meat scraps on top of his food, then before putting it down, we make him sit. Then we put down his food and say wait. He waits and makes eye contact with us. Then we finally say, "OK" and he can eat. But the bottom line is that he goes last, and we tell him when he can eat. That changed his idea of who was in charge.

You can also look him in the eye, with your head higher than his, and breath in his face. Sounds strange, but it says to him that you are in charge.

On a different note, as it gets lighter later, there are two dog parks in Durham. Don't know where you live, but that would get some exercise for the dog while you hold your son.

Good luck!

S.

DON'T GET RID OF YOUR DOG!!!! when my oldest was a baby, i had the exact same problem that you are experiencing now. my daughter is now about 8 1/2, the dog will be 11 in a couple of weeks! i love that dog more with each passing day. it kills me to remember that i nearly got rid of him. i have told my husband that i am liable to have a nervous breakdown when the dog passes away. Baron is my first child--ha ha. congratulations on your baby, but my advise about the dog is to be patient. this too shall pass. the dog will get older and calm down a lot. plus, there is NOTHING like a big dog for security!

I have been right where you are! When I had my first I too had a dog and I think it was overload for us. I worked also and by the time I got home, I wanted to spend time w/the baby and not so much the dog I had loved so much at one time. I actually ended up getting rid of her and it was the best thing for me. Obviously this is a decision you and your husband will have to make, but at the time it was the best thing we did. I currently have THREE GIRLS now and we got a puppy almost a year ago, but we got a very small one and it has worked out great.
Good luck to you

J.,
I understand your dilemma. However, take the advice from the other women that have responded, it's VERY GOOD advice (except the one about the Dog Whisperer, please). I mean who really does that besides Ceasar Milan?
At any rate, like I said it is all good advice. I would suggest walking your dog as a family, that way you get to spend time with your family and your dog gets to spend time with his, your baby gets fresh air, and everyone is happy. If laundry gets in the way, start a load before you go, it will be done when you get back. If you have to work late, have your husband take your dog or a teenager that you know. Of course someone responsible.
Like I said there is a tremendous amount of good advice, I would try anything and everything before I gave him away. Try to incorprate him into your new life. You good even try talking to your vet, see what he/she has to say.
Good Luck!

I completely disagree with the one that said unless you can trian like the dog whisperer youll have to get rid of the dog. Theres no need. Your dog has the same problem any older child would have when a new baby is brought in the house. Do you have a laundry room or maybe a basement that you could use to put the dog in during the say with some squeaky dog toys? Also whenever your just sitting and playing with the baby invite the dog over. Let him lay near you and join in. I have a full blooded border collie and my 5 month old daughter squeals everytime she sees her. We let our daughter feel the dog, which makes her happy and the dog gets extra attention. Plus it helps them bond and this way as they get older youll have no better gaurdian then your dog. Remember for 2 years that was your only child. Itll take time for the dog to adjust. Not a bad dog he just needs your guidance in how to handle the changes. Hang int here itll work out. Love and affection is all he needs.

Hi J.,
You may want to consider putting your dog in a doggy daycare. That's a great way for him to get exercise and lots of attention during work hourse. Dogs Rule Daycare is a great place. I've used them before. There is also a doggy daycare downtown near St. Jude, but I can't think of the name. I'm pretty sure Dogs Rule will actually pick-up your dog from your home and bring him back. I know they have package deals, etc...There are also dog sitters who you may be able to hire to come by a few times a week and give him a good walk during the day. Just a few suggestion...hope these are helpful!

We have an 18 month old and a 2 year old dog who is 68 lbs. She is a doberman-weimeraner mix (sp?), a very high energy dog. We live in a 1200 sf house with a tiny fenced in back yard. When my son was around the age of your child, we would take a walk with the whole family down to the dog park. My husband and the dog would go into the park and let her run aorund with all the other dogs for say thirty minutes and she was worn out. It helped a lot. Other distractions we give her are really big chewy bones and she can spend a couple of hours just chewing on those instead of our plaster walls and base boards. Since our son has gotten older he loves to be with her. She is great around him, she will take a few of his toys and he takes a few of hers but they are learning to share. They are both learning to live together and they generally love each other. We give him the chore of feeding the dog every evening and he loves it. We also to took the dog to obedience classes one night a week and that was the best thing ever - it tired her out and made her listen to us. So I highly recomend that. Good luck - I think you can make it work if you want to, but if your heart is not in it then maybe you should let the dog go to another good home. Hope this helps a little.

Dogs and babies can get on fine if you are willing to put the time in to work with them. You basically have to treat this as if you have two children. You have to establish firm and non-negotiable rules. Set up commands mow. (ex. "Not in the face" for licking. Or "Leave it" for something he is not supposed to have.) You need to work on furthering your dog's training and you should take him out for the exercise. It's hard to find time, but generally it just means sacrificing something.... like sleep. >.<

This is basically the only option that I see you having other than parting with him. If you can't spare the time to give both the baby AND the dog what they need, then you have to look for a new home for the dog. Pet's are a big responsibility and they take a lot of work. You just have to choose if he is worth it or not. He's a good dog, it sounds like, just dealing with jealousy and territorial issues. He just needs a bit of work and to not feel like he is being completely shunned by the baby. In the doggy world... he sees the baby as replacing him.

Also, when the baby is big enough, establish r ight away a hierarchy. Animals, especially dogs, respond by knowing their rank in a system. Never let the dog go in first. When you let him in or out, he is ALWAYS the last to come in. This lets him know his place. He still f eels like a loved member of the family unit, but he knows where his rank is. You need to completely establish dominance. Maybe look into a dog training school or pick up some informational books / videos on the subject. Again, this is only if you think he is worth finding time for.

Also, I don't even have a dog anymore and I take my young children on walks every day. When it's cold, I just bundle them up. I have done this since my first son, now two, was a wee little infant. It wont hurt your little boy to get some fresh air.

Good luck!

I understand what you are going thru and its as if you have two babies instead of one. But please above everything protect your baby. I just read a story about 3 weeks ago in our local paper, where the families pet of 3 yrs had bit their 4 month old babies head severely while it was sleeping in its room and the mother was in the kitchen. According to the story it was not a vicious breed, had no reason to have done that, but the mother said it had recently been acting possessive as you say yours has. The baby lived but it will have to have extensive surgeries on its head and face. So as much as you might love your dog also, please separate them somehow or find your dog another loving home. Just don't take that chance! It could happen so quickly especially with one that weighs 65 lbs. I know our animals become a part of our family just as our kids do, but we have to be realistic also and realize our kids come first! Good luck with what ever you decide.

I had three 10 year old animals when my baby was born, and I am sure the first 6 months was h*** o* them, but everyone adjusted. Just remember in a few short months when the weather is nice, you and the baby are going to want to take walks outside and play. By this time next year the dog will have settled down, and your child will love having a playmate. Give it a little more time before giving your animal up. Maybe more time in the yard and less time in the crate would help he situation now. Animals don't mind cool weather they wear fur coats. Good luck with whatever you decide.

Hire a dog walker or put the dog in a daycare place where he'll get plenty of play and exercise. Your little fellow will soon get big and boisterous and be more than a match for the dog.

M.

First, and foremost, your baby's safety is very important. And as a mother you will have that instinct whether to trust your dog or not. I know you love your dog, but do not feel badly if you also feel you need to give him/her to a different home. I have a 2 1/2 year old. And when I was pregnant, I wondered how my dog would be with a new baby. Now, my dog is very motherly with my daughter. Another thing to think about is your baby will not be a baby for long. I still can't believe my baby is now almost 3. My point is, it's a short amount of time to involve your dog in your baby's life (with you right there). And when you're not around, don't feel guilty if you have to crate the dog. Anyway, both of these choices are humane and loving. And if you decide to give the away, just make darn sure that it goes to a very loving family. Good luck.

Do you have any teen-aged neighborhood kids that maybe you could pay to take the dog on a walk everyday after school for like 45 minutes - 1 hour? Maybe if he got some more exercise during the day it would make things easier on you when you guys get home from work.
I have a yellow lab that was only nine months old when my daughter was born (we bought her the week before I found out I was preggo!). It was hard because the puppy was mostly left out back because she just had too much energy! We felt like we were neglecting her, but just couldn't have a rambunctious puppy around a newborn! But now, my daughter is three and the dog is almost four and she's the best dog ever!! Super sweet and mellow and she's inside the house more than out!!
I hope that helped a little!! Good luck!
M.

Hey there,

Sorry in advance for the numbering--just trying to put thoughts into order :)

1)Call a dog walker/trainer to give your dog the attention it needs at least a few times per week. Gail Keener, owner of Customized Pet Sitting can help: ###-###-####
My dogs are let out by her and walked three days a week while we are at work.

2)Call a playcare place to drop the dog off during the day for socialization and exercise. I recommend Club K-9
http://www.clubk-9charlotte.com/contact.htm
My dogs go there on Wed and Fri each week, play with a pack of 30 or so dogs all day, and come back exhaused and happy. You cannot trade this for anything.

3)Never let your toddler and dog together unsupervised.

4)It's not too early to say 'no!' especially when it comes to your child's safety. Mosy children are bitten, if they are, by a dog they know. In many of these situations, the dog was simply pushed beyond its limits. Growling of any kind is a warning that should be heeded.

5)Do everything you can to keep your dog who was in the family first. Teach your child to respect the dog, and teach your dog to respect the child.

6)Move your dog out of the crate and put up a tall babygate on your bedroom, giving him more room to move.

7)Get an electric or wooden fence installed so that the dog can have his time outside. www.invisiblefence.com

8)Create some daily time slot for your dog--15 minutes of cuddling, training, sitting outside, etc does wonders.

Finally, from the professionals:

Things to Consider Before You Get a Dog

Spay/neuter virtually all dogs (this frequently reduces aggressive tendencies).
Never leave infants or young children alone with any dog.
Do not play aggressive games with your dog (e.g., wrestling).
Properly socialize and train any dog entering the household. Teach the dog submissive behaviors (e.g., rolling over to expose abdomen and relinquishing food without growling).
Immediately seek professional advice (e.g., from veterinarians, animal behaviorists, or responsible breeders) if the dog develops aggressive or undesirable behaviors.

Teach children basic safety around dogs and review regularly:

Do not approach an unfamiliar dog.
Do not run from a dog and scream.
Remain motionless (e.g., "be still like a tree") when approached by an unfamiliar dog.
If knocked over by a dog, roll into a ball and lie still (e.g., "be still like a log").
Do not play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.
Immediately report stray dogs or dogs displaying unusual behavior to an adult.
Avoid direct eye contact with a dog.
Do not disturb a dog who is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.
Do not pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.
If bitten, immediately report the bite to an adult.

It's good to see that you care about your pet! So many people do not! I have 3 dogs and an 8 month old. I stay at home so I don't really have an issue with exercise/attention for my dogs. Except lately with this iffy weather...I don't want to take the baby out in it so they haven't had a walk in two weeks! Poor dogs :(
The other ladies gave some really great suggestions although I would strongly advise against the invisible fencing. This leaves the door wide open for whoever to come through and snatch your dog which happens ALL THE TIME in Clarksville. Not a good situation...Also if the dog sees something he really wants to go after the invisible fence will not stop him. It won't stop other dogs/kids from coming on your property and messing with your dog either.
The dog walker or doggy daycare is a great idea! Maybe you could arrange for him to be walked towards the end of the day so that he is less hyper by the time you get home with the baby...
Growing up with a dog in the home is so great for children, even little babies just as long as you set boundaries for both child and dog. I am glad you are working so hard to figure out a way to keep him!

Kirsten had some great suggestions. My Aussie is 3 (can you say HYPER), and hates children. Our daughter is 4 months old. After a week of having her home, he was in love. I've learned not to get upset if he licks her and wants to get near her. I praise him every time he is gentle with her and gently tell him to leave her alone and praise him when he does that as well. Dogs will just get more possessive and more upset if you get mad at them each time he does something to the baby. You want him to love the baby not resent him for getting your attention. (Not sure if you do that or not). They are like toddlers, so look for advice on how to deal with older siblings and new babies. Surprisingly some of the advice is the same! Every time the baby cries in her crib, I get my Aussie to come help me check on her. Now he runs and gets me if he hears her cry. Much better than a monitor! (He also steals any toys that squeak and hides them... but I can live with that) Maybe there is a teenage boy in your neighborhood who would like to make some extra cash by walking your dog for you. It might be cheaper than a professional.

I hate to say it, but it sounds like you don't have the time to take care of this dog. He is acting out not just because of the attention your new baby is getting, but because you work all day and he is lacking exercise. I know how much pets mean to families, fitting right in and stealing our hearts, and that giving him away would be heart wrenching. However, it sounds like it would be in his best interest to go somewhere that he has attention and space, as you said.
If you decide to keep him, please make it a priority to give him at least an hour of walking every day. This will help him get out the excess energy and be calmer when he is inside.
Hope this helps,
K.

Hey, J.,

You are right to be concerned about your dog and the baby. ANY dog needs to be introduced to the baby and taught to be gentle and obey you when you tell it to sit, lie down, etc. A dog who isn't allowed to interact with the baby can begin to react with jealousy and resentment which could lead to it hurting your baby. SOOOO that said. Get a GOOD training book about obedience and how to handle introducing the dog to new people situations etc. The dog can be come the baby's best buddy and remain a loving member of your family. I know how difficutl it is to find time to give the dog the attention it needs, but remember that it was a member of your family before the baby and expects to still be given that love and attention..I am sure that you will work it out with the right training and handling of the situation..I hope this helps..B.

From reading you're e-mail it sounds as if you have already made up you're mind and that you just need help letting you're heart know... Right now (even though you love you're big puppy ) you need to think about what is best for you're baby.... and find puppy a new loving home ( and really in the long run it will be best for doggy too ... because he will get the love and attention he deserves also)

Ok, this may be strange, but I saw an episode on the Dog Whisperer with a family that had a similiar problem. It seemed to work. First, when you get home, go to the dog FIRST as you did before the baby came. Either you or your husband needs to pay attention and show affection to him before going to the baby. Also, having a big or small yard doesn't matter, the dog needs to walk. So why don't you throw a collar on the dog and put the baby in the stroller and take a walk before dinner or after dinner. Ceasar Milan said that walking a dog for a minimum of 20-30 minutes (I believe) will make a huge difference in the animal. Give it a try, what could it hurt? Hope this helps. Good luck!

I don't think it's so much the baby, but the fact that your poor dog isn't getting any exercise. I know it seems like you don't have any time, but I would suggest writing down on a piece of paper how you spend your time every day. Do you not have time to take a walk because you're watching TV? You can take a family walk--you, your husband, your son, and your dog--every evening instead of watching one sit-com. If you *really* don't have any time in the evenings because you're catching up on laundry or whatever, your husband can go out with the dog while you do the chores (and if he resists that, then you can say, "Ok, *you* do the laundry, while *I* go walk the dog!" I can just about guarantee he'll pick walking the dog).

If you can't give the dog the exercise he needs, then I think it would be a wise decision to let him go to a family that can take care of that need.

Unless you have time to train him "Dog Whisperer" TV show style, you probably will have to give him away, cause that poor dog needs LOTS of exercise. It's not fair to him to get shoved off like that, but he is displaying jealousy towards the baby, and that is a dangerous sign.

One last option is: Doggy Day Care. They have doggy friends at doggy day care and get exercised and all that. So it's good for them.

Still, you WILL have to stop him from taking the baby's stuff and create boundaries. If you love that dog, get some "Dog Whisperer" DVDs and start studying them, asap.

Good luck,
C., RN

The dog was your child first. Did you introduce the baby to the dog? Have you tried to include the dog in your time with the baby? Have you shown the dog one on one? Take the baby for a walk in the stroller and walk the dog at the same time. Hire a teenager in the neighborhood to walk the dog for a small price. Exercise will decrease some of the energy level in the dog but will also make the dog feel he is still important to the family. He is acting out. Ususally dogs and kids adapt to each other and as the baby grows the dog will become the protector of the child.

J.,
Unfortunately, just because you now have a child does not mean you can stop taking care of the dog. The dog needs the walks/runs everyday. If you can't take care of him properly you should look at getting rid of him before he does something very wrong. His initial shows of possession and getting into everything are his way of crying for your attention. It doesn't take much of your time, but 30 minutes in the morning will go a long way in keeping a healthy relationship with your dog.

Have you intoduced the dog to the baby? If not do so hold the baby by the dog and pet the dog thru the whole introduction.I don't know where you live but start walking the baby everyday in a stroller and walk the dog with you.Makes the dog still know hes wanted ,will make the baby sleep better from the fresh air,and what it will do for you for getting back in shape.Only need to take a half hour of your time.You and Dad can take turns or do it as a family.

Is it possible when you get home from work for you, the dog and the baby to go out for a run/walk? Attach the leash to the stroller and all of you exercise together. It might be tough at first, getting everyone to coorperate and be in sync with each other, but it is at least something to try!
This will give your dog time to stretch his legs and even get used to baby being onboard. Plus invite Dad to this great adventure. You may need his extra hands until the dog and the stroller get used to each other.
good luck,

J., i have 4 children and have 3 dogs as well.so i know what your feeling and you really dont have to part with your pet now, you need to introduce him to the baby and give him boundaries by getting your dog to sit beside you while you hold the baby. let the dog get used to the smell of your son at the foot and keep your arm under the dogs neck just to let him smell but keep your pet at a distance as well, to show him the boundaries of the baby. this will take some time depending on how well your dog learns a new behavior. but keep doing it. he will nudge the baby at the foot and will probably get anxious when the baby cries. my pets hated it when the baby cried and were always the first ones in the room to check on the baby but the learned to do so by going to the crib and sitting down to wait for me. only allow your dog near the baby when he is calm and submissive never when the dog is anxious or uneasy. as for the toys you need to set boundaries as well just like you would if he was going for your shoes or anything else. it has worked for me and my dogs are very loving and protective of all my children. they just need to understand that this baby is now his master to. good luck!! T.

I would suggest 2 things. First, obedience training for you and the dog. A trained dog is a much better member of the family. You should be able to find a reputable trainer in your area by contacting local vets, or kennel clubs. Also, You might want to consider a doggie day care...for some reason we thought we could handle a pup and our toddler...big mistake. However, Doggie day care is reasonable, wears him out on the days we both work and socializes him to other people and dogs. It has been a great solution for us and in most cases is extremely reasonably priced. Finally, I involve our daughter in his care as much as possible. We walk him together with her in the stroller as long as the weather cooperates.
Good Luck!!

Do you live in New Albany? We have a 1 yr. old German Shepherd/Malamute mix that I take walking almost every day- maybe I can walk your dog too. Sacha would love some company- he doesn't get to hang out with other dogs much during the winter. I take him to the 4H fairgrounds by our house and we walk for at least 30 minutes. It has helped his behavior tremendously- he used to destroy things just because he had no way to release his energy. He dug holes in the yard, chewed everything in sight, and was just plain hyper. Since I moved in with my boyfriend and started walking him, he is a different dog. We have the same situation with the small yard and big dog. :( It is the life of a city dog, but they have to walk, or else they get manic in my experience. I think that as long as your pup is getting the exercise he needs, you won't have to worry about him being weird with your baby. If anything, he may be jealous that he doesn't get the same attention and exercise anymore since the baby came. Let me know if I can help. I wouldn't mind a bit and like I said, Sacha would love a playdate. :)

J.

have you considered paying a local high school student to take your dog for a long walk or run in the afternoon? even to just spend an hour with him in the back yard throwing a ball for him. high school kids are looking for a chance at easy money, so they are cheap and have the energy required for a long jog with your little bundle of energey.

This just might be the wrong pet for your family. A dog that is as possessive as you describe will not change that behavior. And you have to watch him every minute and it will only get worse when your baby becomes a toddler.

I would pass him along to a situation or family that can handle such a lively and possessive dog. (I have had enough experiences with pets when my three children were small. We had a doberman that was a wonderful and obedient dog, but could not have him around when friends brought babies to my home. We had to banish him to his pen outside when there were any small children other than my own in the house. He was just protecting his family and his territory. When we left the area and knew we couldn't take him with us we gave him to someone who planned to place him on a farm in Iowa.)

How about Doggie Day Care? there is one in Stokesdale (me), a new one at 150 & Church in Summerfiald, two, I think, on Battleground ave. I'm sure there are other places, that's just my tromping grounds I'm familiar with. Even if you only do two or three days a week it really helps them get out some energy!
What do you mean by "more possessive"? Is he aggressive in how he grabs the stuff or when you try to get it back?
Also, an idea of what is in his mix can help figure out what might occupy him besides a run (like is he i herding dog mix, lab mix, etc? Your best guess.
K.

Hi J. -

We don't have a dog, but one of our columnists on Clever Parents writes about exactly that topic. Here's a link to the column - maybe it will help give you some ideas. Good luck!

http://www.cleverparents.com/category/life/living-with-ki...

:-) K.

hi, I am a mother of 2 with 2 dogs of my own. I would say that you should look into a dog sitter for your dog, or possibly doggie daycare while you and your husband are at work. This way your dog gets plenty of exercise and attention, therefore not being so demanding on you when you get home from work. As far as him being alittle rough, he is still a puppy, and that will fade within about a year or 2. But you may want to enroll him in obedience school, it will help. I wouldn't consider adopting him out yet, he sounds like a great dog, and this is an adjustment for him too. He is just like your child, and just needs some time to adjust to the new way of life. Give him some one on one time and let him know you still love him. Be patient, I'm sure it'll work out, just gonna take some time. Hope I was alittle help to you. Have a great day. J.

Yes... sounds like the dog is more trouble than he is worth and your baby should be worth more. Spend your time with your baby. There are people out there that will take dogs even if they are mutts that have time to mess with them and be with during the day. The dog probably gets on the babies nerves and just can't say it. There will come a time when the baby is big enough and will want a puppy and that is fine but until then, your baby needs your attention more.

Is there a way to walk the dog with the baby? You should watch the Dog Whisperer if you get National Geographic. I have started trying to walk our 1 crazy and 1 not crazy dog while pulling my 17 month old in a wagon. It is tough, but it has really helped the crazy dog's craziness. Or maybe you could get a neighborhood teenager to walk the dog cheaply. We couldn't do that because our dog is a runner if he gets loose!

J., Just a thought...Find an 11-13 year old in your neighborhood to spend time with him and walk him after school.
I know my 11 year old wants a dog so bad that she's offered to do that in our neighborhood (We have 2 indoor cats). Summer is coming up...It could definitely buy you some "adjustment time."

D. C

Read Ceasar's book first. He has a lot of behavior advice for all kinds of dog problems. And of course I can't find it to give you the title. He's on TV--Ceasar's Way--or something. But . . . having said that, the exercise is important and the only way to get off that energy. Can you run with the baby in a stroller and the dog on a leash?
Sorry, wish I had more ideas.
J.

Hi there,

Have you thought about a pet sitter? Someone who can come by and walk your dog? I have a pet sitting business and it comes in hand for several people. I charge $14 for a walk that is between 15 to 25 minutes. Not sure where you're located though. I hope this helps you some. And congrats on being a mom. I have a little boy that will be 4 in April.

K.

Have you thought of Doggy Day care. some places only charge 16 dollars a day. He would get excercise and he wouldn't be left in a crate. everyday. There are some really good places in durham. Even if you couldn't do it everyday the dog might benefit twice or three times a week.

Can you put baby in a stroller after work and walk, walk, walk with baby and the dog? Lack of exercise is a big problem with dogs. They need to burn off that energy. Can you find someone else to walk the dog for you?

J.,

a lot of good suggestions have been posted already.
I'd like to add another resource: http://familypaws.com/,
and check also http://dogsandstorks.com/ (they're connected)

They offer a lot of great info. A lot of it is on preparing the dog ahead of time, but there is also info on what to do in your situation. And you can contact them directly with specific questions too if you can't find the answer you are looking for.

Good luck!

Take the dog for more walks. I would act up if I were crated all day and ignored all night too. Pets are not disposable- I mean, you MUST have considered what would happen if you had kids when you chose a puppy to bring home.

When I was young, my dad owned his own business. He had a professionally trained, non-pet, guard dog that stayed there on site. However, being that it was a family owned business, he did do one thing that really worked well for getting the dog to know our scents. He tied a bandana around our necks and we wore them for a day or so. Then he tied the bandana around the dog's collar. This way our scents were there and he became to associate us as part of his job...to protect us. I agree that you need to introduce the dog, and get a good jogging stroller (depending on the weather though) and take baby with you. But you may want to get an old towel or something, and wash it, lay your baby on it for tummy time, and let the little guy smell it up. Then put that in the dog's kennel while you are gone. He will begin to associate baby as being his, not as his competition. You need to do this about every three or four days...so that the scent is constant. Try to use the same blanket or towel each time also. Good luck!!

I'm not sure where you live, but some areas have Doggie Day Cares. That or you can try to locate a dog walker. That way your doggie can have some play time and interaction during the day and hopefully not be so energetic and starving for attention when you get home. It's hard I know. My first was born preemie and I had no time for my two dogs. I felt so bad I eventually found them a new loving home :( But I would use that as a last resort!