Some pointers with new baby and young dog please (golden retriever, training, best)

[regarese]

So we have a 2 year old daughter-Sabrina-and a 1 year old dog-Shelby (choc. lab/golden retriever mix, female) who are getting along really well. We have a separate play area for our daughter where most of her toys are that she plays in so that there are no incidents because the dog thinks the baby's toys are hers and nothing is inappropriately eaten. Quiet toys, dolls, and books are allowed in the "common" area-LOL. We're doing well with these two.
I am pregnant now and due in June, and am looking for pointers for when we bring the new baby home. From stuff I've read so far, I am planning on sending my husband home from the hospital with one of the baby's blankets so Shelby can get the scent of it. I will also start holding a baby doll while sitting on the couch as the due date gets nearer so she gets used to seeing me with the baby and learning how to not jump up when she sees this. She is allowed to lay on the couch by us, but we make her get down if she thinks it's play time-should I change this or just keep enforcing the "no play on the couch" rule? I also read that since I'm "the boss" in Shelby's eyes, I should let her see my husband carrying the baby into the house so that she knows it's ok that he handles the baby. What else should I do or not do? I don't want Shelby to feel neglected or be jealous of the baby. Thanks in advance.

[PudelPie]

Wow...congrats on the new baby and major kudos to you for researching/planning to do right by your dog during this transitional time!!! There's actually another thread looking for similar advice, which I previously posted to: https://www.city-data.com/forum/dogs/...ml#post2199588

FYI, here's my posting but there are definitely others worth following up on. Best of luck to you!!

I know I've seen a number of books reviewed in The Bark over the years, so I just did a quick Google search. I can't vouch for any personally (but I did check out this website which offers free advice on this very issue): Dog Training » Articles » Preparing Your Dog for a New Baby

There's also, Your Dog and Your Baby, which shows quite a bit online:
Your Dog and Your Baby: A Practical ... - Google Book Search

And if you search on Amazon, a ton comes up, starting with this one, There's a Baby in the House: Preparing your dog for the arrival...
Amazon.com: There's A Baby in the House: Preparing your Dog for the Arrival of your Child: Books: Mike Wombacher

Again, big congrats!!!

~PudelPie

[regarese]

Thanks-I'll have to check those out.

[dreamhunter65]

Sounds like all ready for new baby in house and dog is young enough to learn as long as when can show affection to dog both when alone and when have baby with you.

Congratulations on new addition to family.

[regarese]

Thanks Dreamhunter