Hi all! We are a multi-creature household- two cats, a golden retriever and three humans. It’s a busy house, and we try our best to keep it peaceful!

When we brought Jack home, we were very concerned that the dog wouldn’t like the baby. It was very important to me that Jack be comfortable with dogs and cats, but I also want him to be respectful of pets that he doesn’t know.

Jack loves Ted, he wants to throw the ball for him, pet him and kiss him. Ted is in it for one thing: the snacks.

We try really hard to make sure we are disciplining the right creature for their wrongdoing. The thing is, Ted is a really good dog, so we can’t get mad at him or yell at him when he grumbles at the baby for pulling his tail or pinching him. He is only doing what he can do to communicate his displeasure.

We try to teach Jack to treat all dogs with respect. Give them space, not toooo much affection, and be gentle. We constantly remind him to be kind and gentle when he is interacting with a dog, and we show him how to gently pat. I always make sure to say “Teddy is telling you that he doesn’t like that- you need to listen to him”

We never want him to put a dog in a position where it feels powerless.

So we always encourage Ted to relocate if they baby becomes a bit much. We will pick Jack up, and let him have some space, and we always reward him for being particularly patient.

There is a tentative truce in our household, that is only growing stronger as Jack grows and learns (and drops more and more food)