How to Introduce your Dog to a Baby: A Step-by-Step Guide
At How2Mom, we hear this worry all the time: “What if my dog doesn’t do well when we bring the baby home?”
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about mixing your fur baby with your new baby. The good news? With some preparation and patience, most dogs adjust beautifully — and many become your child’s very first best friend. We’ve supported countless families through this transition, and the truth is, the earlier you plan, the smoother it goes.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to safely introducing your newborn to your dog, based on both evidence and the real-life experiences of families we work with.
Before the Baby Arrives
Prep your Dog with the Basics
Even the sweetest dog needs structure. Make sure your pup has solid recall of commands like “sit,” “stay,” “leave it,” and “go to your bed.” These cues become lifesavers when you’re holding a newborn and need quick cooperation.
Let your Dog Explore Baby Scents
Bring home baby blankets, onesies, or even a pacifier from the hospital before your little one arrives. Let your dog sniff and get used to the new smells. One of our clients laughed when their pup gently carried a baby hat to their bed — it was their way of getting comfortable with the new family member.
Adjust Routines Early
Feeding, walks, and bedtime routines may shift once baby comes. Begin adjusting your dog’s schedule a few weeks before so the changes don’t feel tied directly to the baby. Dogs thrive on predictability.
The First Introduction
Keep things Calmed and Controlled
When you first walk in the door, greet your dog without the baby in your arms so they can release that excited energy. Once calm, have a partner hold the dog on a leash and allow a slow introduction.
Start with Space
Let your pup sniff from a distance, usually the baby’s feet or diaper. Don’t rush face-to-face introductions. Remember, your dog is curious, not malicious — they just need time.
Reward Calm Behavior
Have treats ready. Praise and reward your dog for sniffing gently, sitting patiently, or simply ignoring the baby. This helps them connect calm behavior with positive outcomes.
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Gradual Exposure
Keep Interactions Short and Sweet
The first few days are about quality, not quantity. Allow short, supervised interactions and gradually increase the time as everyone adjusts.
Introduce Sounds Slowly
Babies cry, coo, and squeal — and those noises can be startling for dogs. Play short recordings of baby sounds before birth or let your pup hear your newborn’s cries from a safe distance. Pair the sounds with treats so your dog learns that baby noise = good things.
Give your Dog a Safe Retreat
Every dog needs their own space. Whether it’s a crate, a dog bed in a quiet corner, or a gated-off room, make sure your pup has a spot where they can relax without being bothered.
Additional Tips for Success
- Never leave baby and dog unsupervised. Even the calmest dog can be unpredictable.
- Keep baby gear positive. Reward your pup when they stay calm around swings, bassinets, and strollers.
- Watch for jealousy. Some dogs may act out if they feel left behind. Make time for walks, belly rubs, or even a few minutes of fetch so they still feel like your #1.
- Consider training help. Puppy classes or a refresher session with a trainer can ease your mind before baby arrives.
- Ask for professional guidance. If your dog shows signs of anxiety or aggression, consult your veterinarian or an animal behaviorist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Training
How do I prepare my dog for a new baby?
To prepare your dog for a newborn, start by reinforcing basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” Gradually adjust their routine before the baby arrives, and let them get familiar with baby-related scents and sounds. This helps reduce stress and sets the stage for a calm introduction.
When should I start preparing my dog for the baby?
Ideally, start preparing your dog a few weeks or even months before the baby arrives. Early preparation helps your dog adjust to new routines and stimuli gradually, making the transition smoother once the baby is home.
What's the best way to introduce my dog to the baby for the first time?
Keep the first meeting calm and controlled. Greet your dog alone first to release excitement, then allow a slow, supervised introduction with the baby at a safe distance. Reward calm behavior with treats and praise.
Should my dog sniff the baby right away?
Let your dog sniff the baby’s feet or diaper from a distance. Avoid face-to-face interaction at first. Slow introductions help build trust and reduce the risk of overstimulation or fear.
What should I do if my dog seems jealous of the baby?
Jealousy is common. Make time for your dog with daily walks, playtime, and cuddles. Reward positive behavior around the baby, and avoid punishing your dog for attention-seeking — this could make the behavior worse.
How can I help my dog adjust to baby sounds like crying?
Play recordings of baby noises before the baby arrives, pairing them with treats to create a positive association. After birth, let your dog hear real sounds from a distance while rewarding calm responses.
How long does it take for a dog to adjust to a new baby?
Adjustment timelines vary. Some dogs adapt in a few days, while others may take weeks. Patience, consistency, and supervision are essential for building a positive relationship between your dog and your baby.
Final Thoughts from How2Mom
Introducing your newborn to your dog isn’t a one-time event — it’s a gradual adjustment for the whole family. With patience, structure, and lots of praise, your dog can move from nervous sidekick to protective, loving companion.
We’ve seen countless families go from worry to heart-melt moments — like when a pup gently lays by the crib or trots proudly next to the stroller. Those moments are worth the prep.
At How2Mom, we’re here to support you through every transition — whether it’s labor, postpartum, or helping your first “baby” adjust to the new one.
Thank you for Being Here!
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