Chrissy Teigen and John Legend’s beloved bulldogs Pippa, Puddy and Penny are in for a surprise: Come spring, they will be sharing their parents with a newborn! And Anne Hathaway’s pooches Esmeralda and Edward will be in the same boat. Famed dog behaviorist Cesar Millan—whose clients have included Charlize Theron, Scarlett Johansson and Oprah Winfrey—explains how to introduce your first baby to the members of the pack.
Go for a Long Walk “Never put a kid or a child or a dog in a situation—especially a new situation—full of physical energy,” the star of Nat Geo WILD’s Cesar 911 (Fridays, 9 p.m.) tells Us Weekly. “Make sure you’ve taken him for a long walk before he goes and experiences the baby.” Explains Millan: “Tired dogs are actually very gentle dogs.”
Set Boundaries Millan advises keeping your pooch at a distance for two days as this will help him to respect the baby as a pack leader. Says Millan: “Distance for a dog is respect.”
Take Cues From Your Pet Happy dogs hold their tails at middle height, says the author of Short Guide to a Happy Dog. If the tail is too high, “that means the dog is excited about something.” Other signs of a Zen pup: “You want the ears to be slightly to the side,” and his breathing should be relaxed, according to Millan.
And Your Pet Will Take Cues From You You have to be calm and assertive when your dog and baby first meet, says Millan. You want the dog to associate the baby with relaxation.
Millan’s sons also have shows!
Andre Millan on Pet Talk (Friday, February 19 at 10 p.m. on Nat Geo WILD)
Calvin Millan on Mutt & Stuff (Fridays, 10 a.m. on Nick Jr.)
