Last Updated on July 3, 2024 by Fumipets
Golden Retriever Sulks in the Bath as Owners Prepare to Bring Newborn Home
A golden retriever made his feelings clear about the imminent arrival of a baby in the house by pulling a “tantrum” in the bathtub. Golden Sinatra, named after the legendary Frank Sinatra, lives in Hoboken, New Jersey, with his owners, Greg and Jackie. The couple recently learned they were expecting their first child and broke the news to their pup by buying a stroller, to introduce him to some of the changes that would soon be coming to their home.
Golden Sinatra’s Initial Reaction
“He absolutely freaked out,” Jackie told Newsweek. A video posted to their TikTok account @sinatrathegolden in June has racked up close to 1 million views in a matter of days and shows Sinatra hiding in the bathtub from the stroller, having a “full temper tantrum.”
First hiding behind the shower curtain with just his snout visible, he then stands in the tub, barking at the stroller, before turning his head away and refusing to look at it.
Understanding Sinatra’s Behavior
Jackie told Newsweek: “His tantrums usually stem from new items we bring into the house that he’s not used to. For instance, we have a golden retriever light-up statue for Halloween and Christmas that we can’t put out because he throws a fit and hates it.”
Introducing New Items to Pets
The couple had bought the stroller to slowly introduce the dog to the idea of a newborn in the house, with experts advising that a dog gets used to the smells and sounds of a baby before it is born.
Tips from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA):
- Unwrapping Baby Supplies: Expectant parents should unwrap new baby supplies and introduce them to the dog one or two at a time.
- Using Baby Scents: Use baby powder and shampoo on themselves to get the dog used to the scent.
- Playing Baby Noises: Consider playing audio of babies’ cries during pregnancy while giving the dog attention and treats to assure them the noises are nothing to worry about.
Adapting Sinatra to the Changes
Greg and Jackie, who adopted Sinatra as a puppy from a family who “couldn’t handle him,” said that “despite his quirks, we love him dearly and are excited for him to have a human sibling soon.”
TikTok Users’ Reactions
TikTok users fell head-over-heels for the golden, with his video boasting over 165,000 likes. Comments ranged from laughter to empathy:
- “The way he refuses to look at you.”
- “Being upset in the bath is such a vibe.”
- “Dogs are so dramatic I love them.”
- “Side eye from the tub.”
- “I’m going to live with grandma.”
Sinatra’s Progress
Thankfully, Sinatra’s owners revealed in a comment that they took the pup on a walk with the stroller to test him out, and “he did great.” Retail operations worker Greg and business development worker Jackie explained Sinatra is the “real boss of the house,” who “adores kids” but unfortunately has a strong dislike for anything large and wheeled in the house.
Preparing Your Dog for a Newborn: Tips and Tricks
- Start Early: Begin preparing your dog for the new arrival as soon as possible.
- Introduce Baby Scents: Use baby products on yourself to familiarize your dog with the new smells.
- Play Baby Sounds: Play recordings of baby noises to acclimate your dog to the sounds of a newborn.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they respond well to new baby items.
- Involve Your Dog: Make your dog feel included in the preparation process to reduce anxiety.
Conclusion
Sinatra’s journey from initial tantrum to acceptance is a testament to the patience and dedication of his owners. By taking the time to understand his behavior and gradually introducing new changes, Greg and Jackie are ensuring a smooth transition for their beloved pet as they welcome their newborn into the family. Their story serves as a heartwarming reminder that with a little effort, our furry friends can adapt to big changes and continue to be a cherished part of our lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs
Why did Sinatra react so strongly to the stroller?
Sinatra is sensitive to new items in the house, especially large and wheeled objects, which can be intimidating for some pets.
How can I prepare my dog for a new baby?
Start early by introducing baby scents and sounds, and use positive reinforcement to help your dog adjust to new items and changes in the household.
What should I do if my dog is scared of new items?
Gradually introduce the new item in a controlled environment, using treats and praise to create positive associations.
Is it common for dogs to have tantrums over new things?
Yes, some dogs are more sensitive to changes in their environment and may react strongly to new items or routines.
How can I make my dog feel included in the preparation for a new baby?
Involve your dog in the preparation process by allowing them to explore new baby items, using baby scents, and providing plenty of attention and reassurance.
For more information on preparing your pet for a new baby, visit the ASPCA website.
Read the full original article on Newsweek.
