Preparing the dog for baby

For those of you who don't already know her, this is Maddie.


Maddie is an almost 18-month-old golden retriever and the light of our lives. She is terrific with other dogs (a benefit of doggy "school") and we're hoping that she will be equally good with children. She's already got a fan club in the neighborhood kids, especially baby Avery next door. We also had some other waiting families over on Sunday night, giving Maddie the opportunity to experience the joys of little kids who drop food.

Even though everything about her disposition says "kid friendly", we still want to be sure that we properly prepare her for Nora's arrival. Some things we're working on:

1. sit to be petted
2. walk next to or behind people (and eventually stroller) on walks
3. wait at the top/bottom of stairs for people to go first and give the "ok"
4. lie down and be calm in Nora's room

For some good pet preparation tips, check out the following links:
American Kennel Club
The Humane Society of the United States