Q: Since your baby won’t be able to support its head, it’s best to swaddle the baby in a front carrier for hiking. Once they’re 6 months old, you can use a back carrier with a head support insert.  When your baby is able to sit upright and control their own head and neck without assistance, they can ride in a back carrier. Usually, this happens around 6 months or when the baby reaches 16 pounds (7.3 kg) If you’re not sure whether your baby will be safe in a back carrier, ask your pediatrician for their opinion. When it comes to hiking with your baby, every little bit of weight in the carrier matters. Look for a carrier that weighs less than 4–8 pounds (1.8–3.6 kg) without the baby or any gear loaded into it. Make sure the carrier has padded shoulder straps, washable materials, and adjustable sternum and waist straps.  This will help to keep both you and your baby safe and comfortable on your hike. Your personal preference for the weight and padding of the carrier may vary, but keep in mind that the loaded weight of the carrier should be less than 48 pounds (22 kg). If you’re going to be using a back carrier, be sure to buy a model that has an adjustable frame. This will prevent you from having to buy a new carrier as your baby grows. Most back carriers for hiking have this feature, but some don’t. Most adjustable carriers will also have a kickstand on the back for added stability as you’re loading your baby into the carrier. This will help keep you balanced and support some of the baby’s weight. In the store, put the carrier on and adjust the frame and suspension to fit your height. Make sure the waist strap is tightened to hold most of the weight of the pack, and adjust the shoulder and sternum straps to hold the rest of the weight. If possible, put the baby in the carrier to see how the weight feels on your back.  Since most back carriers are adjustable, it’s more important to make sure the frame and suspension are properly fitted to your body. If you’re having trouble getting the carrier to work for you, ask a store associate to help you adjust the various straps and bars. If possible, try on 2-3 different carriers to compare which ones feel the most comfortable. If you’re going to be carrying your own gear in the baby carrier, look for one that comes with removable diaper bag or day pack. Some might even come with a hydration reservoir so you don't have to pack multiple water bottles. If you want to carry items like a sun shade, changing mat, or bug netting that are usually sold separately, look for carriers that have smaller mesh pockets along the side and back. These are perfect for carrying foldable items. Once you purchase a carrier, carry your baby in it around the house before taking it onto the trail. Try to wear the carrier for about the length of time that you’ll be carrying the baby on the trail to get a good idea of your abilities with the extra weight on your back. This will also help your baby get used to the carrier. You can even take your baby on a walk around the neighborhood or on a treadmill to make sure they’re comfortable with the rocking of the carrier as you walk at a regular pace.
A: Carry your baby in front of you until they’re 6 months old. Find a lightweight carrier made of durable materials. Look for a carrier with a sturdy frame and adjustable suspension system. Try on the carrier in the store to make sure it fits properly. Consider a carrier that has extra storage space or other accessories. Test out the carrier at home before you take it onto the trail.

Q: Using only non-toxic paints that won't harm your dog, you can paint the outside of the house to match your own, or pick a fun theme like an underwater scene. If you have small children, it can be fun to allow them to paint the dog house as an art project. To keep the dog house extra dry, you can cover the entire roof with asphalt-impregnated roofing paper, or tar paper. Once you've covered the house, you can then add shingles for a traditional, sophisticated look. Keep your pup comfy by adding a blanket, dog bed, or piece of carpet inside. To add carpet, simply cut a piece of carpet to dimensions one inch smaller than the floor panel and secure it to the floor. Use wood glue if you want the carpet to be permanent, or duct tape if you want to be able to replace the carpet at a later time. Hang a name plate with your pooch's name over the front of the opening using a small nail and any type of material sturdy enough to withstand the elements. You can get personalized plates made of metal, make and paint a plate out of wood, or even hang spare dog tags. Make sure that the nail does not poke out to the inside of the house. Attach small hooks to the outside of the dog house to serve as a place to keep your dog's leash or any other toys.
A:
Personalize your dog house with paint. Create a sturdier roof. Furnishing the inside. Add fun accessories to make your pup's house a home.