The idea of introducing a new baby to your dog can be a little scary.
It doesn't have to be this way.
By taking a few simple steps a dog owner can make this process much easier for both you and your furry friend.
A few weeks before your due date.

• After you get the babies room set up let the dog explore the new area.
  She will be curious already so this shouldn't be a tough sell.
  Do not allow her to sleep in the room though.
  She needs to know that she is allowed in but that it is not her place to relax.
  
• Introduce your dog to some of the smells and sounds that she will be encountering.
  You can buy CDs that have the sound of a baby crying on them just for this reason.
  Also put baby powder or lotion on your hands when you play your dogs favorite games.
  This will allow her to associate that smell with something positive.
  
• Take your dog to the vet.
  Worms and parasites can be harmful to your newborn so these should be focal points for her check up.
  These check ups should continue regularly until your baby is a few years old.
  
• Invite other mothers and their babies over to meet your dog.
  Let them know that it is just an introduction and the dog will not be playing with their baby.
  It is helpful if the baby has a dog in their own home as well so they will not be scared by an unfamiliar encounter.
  

Just after you give birth

• Have someone take a blanket that the baby has been wrapped in to the dog to give a good sniff.
  Put it near one of her favorite napping places so she associates it with being calm.
  

The big day!

• Make sure that the dog has had plenty of exercise before the big introduction.
  You don't want her bouncing off the walls with untapped energy so she should have had at least an hour of exercise and more if she is an active breed.
  
• When introducing the pair, wait until the dog comes to you.
  Never force the introduction.
  Your dog will approach the baby when it is ready.
  Make sure you remain relaxed when she approaches because she will be taking her cues from you.
  If you are letting her know there is nothing to worry about, she won't worry.
  Let her have a good sniff and then have someone take her away to play.
  

If you follow these simple tips for introducing a new baby to your dog you should not have any problems.
Just remember to let the two become friends over time.
A well trained dog can overcome just about anything you throw at it, so make sure you prepare ahead of time and this can be a joyous time for all members of the family.