Bringing a new baby home is an exciting milestone—but for your dog, it can also be confusing and stressful. Dogs thrive on routine, predictability, and attention, so that sudden changes can lead to anxiety or unwanted behaviors. Preparing your dog in advance makes the transition smoother, reduces stress, and helps foster a safe, positive relationship between your child and your pet.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to set everyone up for success:

1. Gradually Adjust Their Routine

• Shift walk, play, and feeding times to more closely resemble what life will look like after the baby arrives. For example, if you’ll be feeding or walking later than usual once the baby is home, start adjusting now.

• Introduce flexibility. Vary the exact timing of meals or walks slightly, so your dog doesn’t become anxious if things aren’t “on schedule.”

Why it matters: Sudden changes can make dogs feel insecure. By easing them into the new rhythm, they’ll adapt more calmly once the baby is here.

2. Introduce Baby Sounds and Smells

• Play recordings of babies crying, cooing, or laughing at a low volume first, gradually increasing the volume while rewarding calm behavior.

• Bring home baby-related scents (lotions, powders, blankets, clothes) before the baby arrives so they’re familiar.

• Set up baby gear early (crib, swing, stroller). Allow your dog to see and sniff these items so they’re not overwhelmed by sudden changes in their environment.

Why it matters: Dogs rely heavily on their senses. Familiarizing them with the sounds and smells of a baby reduces the shock factor and lowers stress.

3. Practice New Boundaries

• Teach essential cues: “Go to your bed,” “stay,” and “leave it” are especially helpful for safety and calmness.

• Set up baby-free zones. Gates or playpens can create safe spaces for both the baby and the dog.

• Reward calm behavior around baby items. For example, if your dog lies quietly near the stroller, offer a treat and praise.

Why it matters: Clear structure helps your dog feel secure and understand their place in the new household routine.

4. Reinforce Calm Behavior

• Stay neutral when your dog is clingy or hyper. Avoid giving attention to demanding behavior, as this can reinforce it.

• Reward calmness generously. Treats, praise, or gentle petting when your dog is relaxed will encourage them to repeat the behavior.

• Provide enrichment. Puzzle toys, chew bones, and sniff walks give your dog healthy outlets for energy and stress.

Why it matters: A calm dog is less likely to associate the baby with negative changes and more likely to become a trustworthy companion.

5. The First Introduction

• Keep it calm and controlled. Have your dog leashed at first, and allow them to sniff the baby from a safe distance.

• Use positive reinforcement. Praise and reward your dog for calm curiosity.

• Never force interaction. Let your dog approach at their own pace.

• Supervise at all times. Even the most gentle dog should never be left alone with a baby.

Why it matters: A positive, low-stress introduction lays the foundation for a safe and loving bond.

Bonus Tips

• Keep your dog’s needs in mind. Try to maintain their exercise and affection, even if in shorter bursts. A tired, mentally stimulated dog is a well-behaved dog.

• Ask for help if needed. Dog walkers, trainers, or daycare can be lifesavers during the early months.

• Plan for visitors. Many new people visiting to see the baby can overwhelm your dog. Create a safe space for them to retreat to.

✨ With preparation, patience, and consistency, your dog can successfully adjust to your growing family. In time, your baby and your dog may form a lifelong, heartwarming bond.