We’re Expecting… Step 1: Training the Dog

It’s official. We’re expecting our first baby in August of 2013! The only thing is, the furry big brother needs to be trained. He’s a very good dog with a lot of spunk but very stubborn. He started his first day of obedience college last week and it went pretty good. However, we have a long way to go with this little guy. He’s spoiled rotten and needs some shaping up!

As I walked into our first class, I was a little nervous and didn’t know what to expect from the trainers, the other dogs, or even my own little guy. While paying at the counter, the owner said “Oh. You have a dachshund.” I replied “Yeah” in an upbeat voice. He said “Those are one of the most stubborn breeds to train.” (A really great way to ease my nerves before the class.) My little guy didn’t perform as well as I thought and was very shy. When we returned home, my husband couldn’t believe how much I had changed with the dog.  My changes included: no more cuddling on the couch or jumping up on us as he greets us at the door. He is actually making good progress for his first week. Now, we just have 7  more to go for us to hopefully see a real change.

I’m sure some of you non-dog lovers are thinking I’m a psycho for thinking this way about my furry little friend, but growing up I’ve always had a dog and I want that for my child too. I want them to have a little companion to play around with in the yard and learn responsibility by taking care of the dog.

I don’t want the dog to think he’s taking a back seat to our lives, I just want him well-behaved before baby arrives. Have any of you experienced this with your dogs? Do you have any tips for me to help prepare the dog for baby’s arrival? I’d love some advice!