What happens when a new baby arrives?

Yesterday, I received the joyful news that one of our DireWolf Dog owners from southern Florida has a new baby!

We are so happy for their family!

It truly fills me with joy to hear about the new addition to our Dire Wolf Project community.

This is their first child, which is even more special for their family.

But there is already a small challenge.

Their older DireWolf Dog is NOT HAPPY with the new arrangement.

When baby arrived, he slunk into a depression, moping about the house and pouting in his crate all day.

Here’s what he wrote,
”Hi Jenn, I hope you’re well, and merry Christmas! It’s _________, Ragnar’s owner. I don’t have social media so I needed to text.

“My wife and I had our first child Friday and brought him home yesterday. Ragnar has been very sweet but is laying around almost like he’s depressed today even though he’s had his normal food, walk, attention, etc.

“I thought maybe you’d have some insight from other AA owners bringing home babies. Since he’s so emotional in tune I figure he responds different than the typical dog”

Well, it just so happens that today is Christmas Eve when another baby entered a family amidst the animals.

What a perfect parallel for this super timely question.

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, his arrival was marked by humility and simplicity.

There was no room in the inn, so Mary and Joseph had to settle in a stable among the animals.

Yet, even in this humble setting, the animals were part of the scene, observing and sharing space in a moment that changed the world.

Similarly, bringing a new baby into a home with an only dog can evoke feelings of displacement for your furry friend.

For a DireWolf Dog, known for their sensitivity and strong bond with their family, this transition can be particularly challenging.

The arrival of a baby shifts the entire focus of the household.

Overnight, the baby becomes the most precious and demanding presence in the home.

Your dog, once the center of your attention, may feel disregarded or neglected.

Sensitive breeds like the American Dirus can experience these changes acutely, often reacting with behaviors that reflect mourning or attempts to regain attention.

They may pout, withdraw, or even engage in self-sabotaging actions to gain your attention or affection.

Jealous behaviors may also manifest.

The animals in the manger—that were present but did not overshadow the sacred event—created a harmonious and peaceful environment for the newborn’s first moments in life.

To help your dog adjust, you must intentionally introduce them to this new chapter of your life.

Here's how:

1. Introduce the Baby's Scent
   Before bringing the baby home, let your dog smell the baby's blanket or clothing. This helps the dog familiarize itself with the baby’s unique scent.
2. Incorporate the Dog into Baby Time
   While holding the baby, pet or brush your dog. This reinforces the idea that the baby is part of the family, not a rival.
3. Provide Safe Observation
   Place the baby in a secure playpen in a central area of the home. Allow your dog to observe and sniff from a distance, helping them acclimate to the baby without direct contact.
4. Carve Out Intentional Time
   Even with the demands of caring for a newborn, make time for your dog. A short walk with the baby strapped to your body allows your dog to bond with both you and the new addition.
5. Model Calm Confidence
   Dogs are highly attuned to your body language and emotions. If you are anxious about their interactions with the baby, they will pick up on that tension. Practice calm, steady breathing and relaxed movements when the dog and baby share a space.

Plan your dog-and-baby encounters with intension.

Start small, creating opportunities for positive experiences.

For example, reward your dog for staying calm near the baby or sitting quietly during a feeding.

Corrections don’t work when fear and anxiety are at the root of the problem.

But it is necessary to stop any growling or negative behavior with firm resolve.

A good rule of thumb is:

You can be upset, but you can’t be mean.  

This lets your dog know that while discomfort is understandable, aggression is not acceptable.

Newborn cries can be stressful for dogs, particularly sensitive ones like the American Dirus dog.

If your baby cries uncontrollably, consider using doggie earmuffs, a snood, or other noise cancelling devise.

You can also allow your dog to retreat to their crate—a sanctuary where they can decompress.

Always reward calm behavior after stressful moments, reinforcing their ability to cope.

Just as Mary and Joseph created a safe environment for Jesus in the manger, ensure your dog's crate or designated space remains theirs alone.

Welcoming a baby is a monumental adjustment, not just for you but for every member of your household—canine included.

By drawing your dog into this new world with patience and care, you honor the bond you share and create a peaceful environment for both your baby and your dog.

Like the animals in the stable when Jesus was born, your dog can learn to coexist with this miraculous new addition, finding their place in the family once more.

As we reflect on the story of Jesus's birth this Christmas Eve, we’re reminded of the joy and challenges that come with welcoming new life.

Whether it’s a tiny baby or a beloved new puppy, each addition brings unique opportunities to grow our hearts and strengthen our bonds.

Just as Mary and Joseph found room in their hearts and lives despite humble circumstances, we, too, find ways to embrace and cherish the newness in our world.

If you’ve been considering adding a puppy to your family, this season of love and new beginnings is the perfect time.

The American Dirus puppies, with their gentle, loyal nature, are waiting to join homes where they can form deep, meaningful connections.

These puppies are more than companions—they’re family, ready to share in your joy, traditions, and even those cozy nights by the fire.

Our American Dirus puppies are raised with love and care, prepared to thrive in homes that honor their unique qualities.

Whether you’re starting a new chapter as a family or looking to add a touch of warmth to your life, these puppies could be the perfect companion.

Take the next step in your journey and discover the joy of welcoming an American Dirus puppy into your home.

This Christmas Eve, let the season of giving inspire you to make room for a new kind of miracle.

https://direwolfdogs.com/dogs-for-sale/puppies/

Jennifer Stoeckl is the co-founder of the Dire Wolf Project, founder of the DireWolf Guardians American Dirus Dog Training Program, and owner/operator of DireWolf Dogs of Vallecito. She lives in the beautiful inland northwest among the Ponderosa pine forests with her pack of American Dirus dogs.