Ep 19. Making Room for Baby

In It's Me or the Dog season 1 episode 19, titled "Making Room for Baby," Victoria Stilwell helps a couple prepare their dog for the arrival of their new baby. The couple is concerned that their dog, a Shepherd mix named Tilly, will not be able to adjust well to the change in the household dynamic.

Victoria begins by assessing Tilly's behavior and identifying areas where she needs improvement. She notes that Tilly has a tendency to jump up on people and become overly excited, which could be dangerous around a newborn. Victoria also observes that Tilly is possessive of her toys and food, which could lead to aggression towards the baby if not addressed.

To prepare Tilly for the arrival of the baby, Victoria works with the couple to establish new rules and boundaries for the dog. They begin by teaching Tilly basic commands like "sit" and "stay" and reinforcing positive behavior with treats and praise. Victoria also shows the couple how to properly introduce Tilly to new objects and experiences that they may encounter with the baby.

As the due date approaches, Victoria helps the couple create a safe and comfortable space for Tilly in the home. They set up a designated area for her with her own toys, bed, and food and water bowls. Victoria also suggests using pheromone sprays and calming music to help Tilly feel more at ease during this time of transition.

Once the baby is born, Victoria checks in on the family to see how they are adjusting. She is pleased to see that Tilly has been able to adapt well to the new addition to the family. The couple reports that Tilly has been behaving well and showing no signs of jealousy or aggression towards the baby.

To conclude the episode, Victoria recaps the key points of the training and offers additional tips for introducing a baby to a pet. She emphasizes the importance of preparation and patience when it comes to getting a dog ready for a new family member. Overall, "Making Room for Baby" is a heartwarming and informative episode that highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and proper training.