A new baby is a huge change for a dog: new smells, new sounds, a new routine and less attention than before. With the right preparation, the first introduction goes calmly, and your dog and your child can grow up as friends.
Prepare your dog early, before the birth
Start making changes well in advance, so your dog does not link them to the baby's arrival. Get them used to new house rules, such as staying out of the nursery, to the sound of a baby crying (recordings work well), and to any change in the timing of walks. If your dog tends to get anxious when the household changes, learn the signs of stress in dogs now, so you can spot them early once the baby is home.
Brush up on the basics
A calm dog who reliably responds to "sit", "bed" and "leave it" is the foundation of a safe home with a baby. In the weeks before the due date, refresh their obedience and work on settling calmly. The same patient, reward-based approach we describe for teaching a reliable recall works for these cues too.
The first introduction is by scent
Before the baby comes home from hospital, bring back something that carries their smell, such as a muslin or a little hat, and let your dog sniff it calmly. That way the first "contact" happens before they ever meet.
Meeting at home: calm and relaxed
When you bring the baby home, let your dog greet you first. Make the introduction on a lead, in a calm voice, without pulling them back or scolding them sharply. Allow your dog to sniff from a safe distance and praise them for staying calm. Watch their body language throughout, and give them space if they seem unsure.
Never leave them alone together
However gentle your dog is, a baby and a dog must never be left unsupervised. This is a safety rule with no exceptions until the child is older.
Keep making time for your dog
Set aside time for walks, play and affection, so your dog does not connect the baby with losing your attention. Positive associations help a lot: when the baby is around, good things happen for the dog, a treat, a chew or a game.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start preparing my dog? A few weeks or months before the birth, so the changes do not coincide with the baby's arrival.
Can I let my dog sniff the baby? Yes, under supervision and during a calm introduction, but never leave them alone together.
What if my dog gets jealous? Keep their routine and your attention steady, build positive associations with the baby, and see a professional if problems persist. Our guide to jealousy in dogs explains what is behind it.
Busy with a newborn? Your dog still needs their walks. Flat4Pet dog walkers can take that off your hands. Book in the app.
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