If your dog is the spoiled lonely only, it might not be puppy love at first sight when a new baby arrives on the scene. "Pets need to be prepared for a new family member just as people do," says Jacque Schultz, a New York City-based behavior consultant for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Here's how to prep your pup:

• Let your dog interact with children during your pregnancy. If he growls, seek professional training. Never allow a dog with a history of biting around children.

• Pets should be current on vaccines and checked for parasites, advises William Kottler, M.D., a pediatric pulmonologist in Millburn, New Jersey, who has taught pets-and-babies seminars. Consider having your dog spayed or neutered since this may decrease aggression.

• Install a gate to keep your dog out of the nursery when unsupervised. "Never leave your baby unattended with your dog no matter how good you think he is," adds Dr. Kottler.

• Have your partner bring home something the baby wore while you're both still in the hospital to familiarize your dog with his scent.

• Keep toys separate. Don't give your dog plush toys or rattles or he may mistake the baby's toys for his own.

• Pay attention to your dog's response to crying. If he's distressed, let him stay with a friend in the early weeks.

• Protect your pup. Don't let your baby tug at his tail or poke his eyes. With proper precautions, man's best friend can be a wonderful friend to your baby, too.

CLOSE PRINT

Puppy Preparations By Colleen Moriarty, Babytalk If your dog is the spoiled lonely only, it might not be puppy love at first sight when a new baby arrives on the scene. "Pets need to be prepared for a new family member just as people do," says Jacque Schultz, a New York City-based behavior consultant for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Here's how to prep your pup: • Let your dog interact with children during your pregnancy. If he growls, seek professional training. Never allow a dog with a history of biting around children. • Pets should be current on vaccines and checked for parasites, advises William Kottler, M.D., a pediatric pulmonologist in Millburn, New Jersey, who has taught pets-and-babies seminars. Consider having your dog spayed or neutered since this may decrease aggression. • Install a gate to keep your dog out of the nursery when unsupervised. "Never leave your baby unattended with your dog no matter how good you think he is," adds Dr. Kottler. • Have your partner bring home something the baby wore while you're both still in the hospital to familiarize your dog with his scent. • Keep toys separate. Don't give your dog plush toys or rattles or he may mistake the baby's toys for his own. • Pay attention to your dog's response to crying. If he's distressed, let him stay with a friend in the early weeks. • Protect your pup. Don't let your baby tug at his tail or poke his eyes. With proper precautions, man's best friend can be a wonderful friend to your baby, too.