We just had a baby three weeks ago, until that time our yellow lab was essentially our baby. We've been very consious to try to include her in everything since she is a member of the family, but she still seems to be depressed. Since we brought the baby home she has taken to sitting under the table or in the foot space under our desk, two things she never did before. She also sighs a lot. She is a super nurturing lab and is really protective of the baby, but she still seems down. what should we do?
2006-09-12 06:42:25 · 22 answers · asked by Worried Lab owner 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
She may be even sensing that you want things quit for the baby to sleep..Labs are very sensitive that way..
However, if she Is depressed, it will be just short term..she may be wondering where she fits in, but will be fine as soon as she sees you will still keep loving her..
2006-09-12 06:48:33 · answer #1 · answered by Chetco 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You are doing everything right except for one thing. I know since you are busy with the new baby this may sound stupid but did you ever think of getting another dog. A small dog so your yellow lab can play with to get out of depression. I did when my beagle died. I went to the shelter and picked out a very small dog. It may be more work for you because you have your hands full right now but it would probably pull your lab out of depression. Not many people make their dog part of the family like you and I do and depression in any pet can lead to medical problems.
2006-09-12 06:51:32 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I had the same thing happen with our lab mix when our first child came. She was basically treated as our child until (and after) the child came along.
Basically, what you have is a case of sibling jealously. This is compounded by the fact that dogs are very conscious of pack hierarchy and no matter how you slice it she has been knocked down a notch.
Just be sure to include here in everything like you always have and she will eventually come around.
2006-09-12 06:46:39 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
She feels she has lost her job in the household. The baby has taken her place. Make sure to spend a lot of time with the dog when the baby is sleeping. Give her as much extra love and attention as you can. It will take a few weeks for things to settle down and she will feel more comfortable havinf a new baby in the house. Good luck!
2006-09-12 07:11:19 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Don't worry about the dog worry about your baby. A jealous dog is dangerous. Ensure the dog knows his place by putting the baby in his bed basket etc. Firmly let the dog know that he is never to harm, growl or bark at the baby. Do not leave the dog in same room with the baby for even a second.
The dog will come round in time but he is not your main concern. Think safety for the baby first. Watch him around the baby. Try to take the dog out for a walk with the baby in the push chair. I know this is difficult but exercises is the best way to stop a dog being depressed. She was your number one now the baby is............hard for dog to understand this.
2006-09-12 08:08:00 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yes. Make sure you give her plenty of positive attention, especially when the baby is in the vicinity so she associates good things with the baby. Like if you are holding the baby, have your husband or s.o. pet, praise and treat the dog in you and your baby's presence.
Also, when you are able, take the dog out for walks as a family. Get your dog a great toy, like a kong that's stuffed, to play with and keep her busy.
Good luck!!
2006-09-12 06:47:41 · answer #6 · answered by moni 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Not much you can do. As long as you are giving her attention, and including her in activities, she will be okay. It will take some time for her to adjust. I had a daughter 18 months ago, and my dog was jealous for about the first month or two, even though we gave her the same attention as before, etc. She has gotten used to my daughter being around and is back to her normal self. Just be patient and keep giving your dog love and attention.
2006-09-12 07:31:22 · answer #7 · answered by dimples 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Labs are very needy (just like children). Any dog will be a little jealous of a new family member getting more attention than them. My whippet used to sit in my sons carrrier and jump into his crib when he was elsewhere. basically your dog just needs assurance that it is still a beloved family member and eventually this lab will become this childs best friend.
2006-09-12 06:49:09 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
You are giving your affection to the baby and the dog does not understand why. The dog is a little jealous and wants you to give her more affection as it was before the arrival of the baby. Give the dog more attention, praise, and buy her some toys and say "good dog" a lot.
Contact your vet for professional advise.
2006-09-12 06:48:27 · answer #9 · answered by cab veteran 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
of course it is common. your dog was the baby and center of attention before and now the baby has the spotlight. it is common, it is something the dog will have to get used to though. just make sure you take time for the dog too.. it's just like if you were the baby of the family and then your parents had a kid and they were the baby now... Of course it's sad!
2006-09-12 06:46:23 · answer #10 · answered by justasweetestthing 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋