Von Liphier Dobermann

It can truly enrich a family's life to get a pet. Dogs, especially, bring so much happiness and joy into homes that it is almost hard to believe. One couldn't really ask for a more loyal and protective friend than that.

Seeing how much fun dogs are to play with, it is no surprise that we spend a lot of time with them. When a baby comes along, however, this might be somewhat different. Then the first step is to have the two meet.

Their first meeting will be quite exciting. Your priority, of course, should be the safety of your baby. That said there are a few things you can do in advance so that the meeting goes smoothly.

Obedience training: Your pet is very intelligent and can handle information more quickly than you can imagine. Before or during your pregnancy, you have to make sure that your dog gets the basics when it comes to obedience.

This will ensure you that they won't be jumping or tackling you during this crucial time. When the baby comes, you have to be sure that a simple "sit" will be obeyed by your dog.

Pets can get very excited when they see the new baby and having an obedient dog will minimize any accidents.

What you can also do before the meeting is to socialize your dog to babies: This second part can be done only if your dog has received basic obedience training. You can start by carrying your friend's baby in your home.

Make sure that you are firm whenever your dog wants to get too close to the baby. Ask him to sit or to stay if he wants to move closer to the baby.

The most important lesson is for your dog to understand that he has to respect the baby's space. He will also get used to the smell and the sounds of a baby, which should help him be more relaxed your baby comes along.