What advice do I need for raising a puppy with a baby safely?

Question

I have a 4 month old baby girl and last night we picked up this 6 week old girl German Shepard, they’re both teething and I’m trying to teach the baby not to grab onto the puppy. Is there anything I should do to make sure the puppy knows to be gentle with the baby? Or any advice I should know raising this puppy? Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 2 months and 27 days old

C. Rathjens, DVM · Accepted Answer

I'd recommend starting with this free download that focuses on behavior: https://www.dogstardaily.com/storefront/after-you-get-your-puppy You also need to take Athena in for a vet visit ASAP for a general check up and determination of when she needs her next vaccines. Ask them to talk to you about socialization and check out this link: https://www.longmonthumane.org/sites/default/files/media/attachments/Puppy_handoutfinal.pdf The biggest rule, in my opinion is to never ever ever ever never leave the two alone together and separate them if you aren't actively watching. Athena is going to be a big girl soon, and if your son does something that scares her (because he's a baby and will do that as he gets bigger/more mobile), she may react with a bite, and because she's big it will be a serious bit. All dogs will bite in the right circumstance. This rule also allows you to teach your son appropriate behavior with dogs, because you'll catch every time he's too rough and be able to redirect him. I know first hand how hard this rule is, and you will eventually relax it (because we're all human), but know that you're putting your son in some risk whenever you do, so many sure you're really confident. Boys ~4-7 years old are the most likely to be bit by dogs, and it's usually in the face - they just do stupid things and dogs react normally, and it doesn't end well. Finally, be familiar with normal dog body language ( https://positively.com/dog-training/understanding-dogs/canine-body-language/ ) so you know when Athena is uncomfortable and can remove her or your son from the situation. Have so much fun with them! They will be a cute pair :)

What advice do I need for raising a puppy with a baby safely?

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