Most new parents get worried about how their dog will react when they bring home you new baby. Unfortunately a lot of new or soon to be new parents will get rid of their dog fearing that the dog may get jealous and harm the child. It doesn't have to be this way though. Many families are completely successful with the integration of new baby and pet.

Just as with any other training practice you introduce to your dog, it will take time, patience and care to make sure the welcome is perfect. You must make sure that your dog acts appropriately around the baby which means you have to prepare the dog as much as possible in advance.

Your dog is used to your attention and pampering and some jealousy will naturally happen when it's the baby and not the dog who is the center of attention. Take some time, love and a few precautions and treats and everything should be fine.

• Take your dog to the Vet for a complete checkup a few months before the baby arrives to check for worms and parasites that may be harmful to your baby. This also a good time to get your dog spayed or neutered if you haven't already done so.

• If you have friends, neighbors or family who have babies or small children ask them to visit. Make sure all interactions are supervised and this will help get your dog used to being around babies.

• Let your dog become familiar with the babies new surroundings. Introduce him to the baby's room and objects in the room. Let him smell things the baby will be using such as powders and lotions. If possible, have someone bring home something the baby wore in the hospital home and introduce it to your dog. As we know,dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell.

• Get your dog used to baby related sounds as well, such as the infant swing, rocking chairs or rattles. Another good idea is to play recordings of baby noises, yes, they actually sell these, or make a recording of a friends baby. When you introduce your dog to these sounds, have him associate them with pleasurable things by giving them love and treats.

• Never allow your dog to jump on or sleep on anything that belongs to the baby, such as her bed, change table or play area. You have to let the dog know that this furniture is not for him. Also don't let him play with any of the baby's toys as he may think they belong to him and try to take them away from the baby. Don't buy any toys for the dog that resemble the babies toys either.

• If you don't want the dog in the baby's room at all, install a barrier that will prevent them from getting in, but will also allow they to see and hear what's going on. This will make him feel part of the process and feel more comfortable knowing and hearing the new baby sounds.

• Get yourself a pretend baby until the real one comes. Carry the doll around like you would a baby, go for walks with the dog and stroller, and pretend to change and bathe the dog. This will get him used to the daily baby routines.

• The most important thing to instill in your dog is to make sure he knows who is the boss. He must understand that you and your family are the alphas in this relationship. Keep your eye on the dog at all times and be sure to reprimand him when he shows and signs of jealously towards the baby.