Introducing a dog to a newborn baby
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We are about to welcome a newborn baby into the family, and I’m not sure how my dog will adapt to having a baby in the home. My dog is great with older kids who visit, but she’s never been around an infant. I don’t think she’s ever heard a baby cry, and I’m concerned she might get jealous, maybe? My dog is currently my only child, lol.
Are there any ways I can get my dog ready for a baby? We have about 2 months before the baby is due.
Any advice and tips are hugely welcome!!
Hi Rach,
First of all, congratulations! Although it’s fantastic that your dog gets along with the older kids in your family, you’re right that it’s a different scenario with babies.
Introducing a dog to a newborn requires preparation and care to ensure a positive experience for everyone. Before the baby arrives, focus on basic training, desensitizing the dog to baby sounds and familiarising them with baby-related items. Establish boundaries, such as areas off-limits to the dog, in advance. During the first meeting, stay calm, keep the dog leashed, and allow a slow, supervised introduction, rewarding calm behavior to create positive associations.
Ensure the dog doesn’t feel excluded by involving them in family activities when safe. Provide the dog with a quiet space to retreat if overwhelmed, such as a crate. Gradually increase supervised interactions as their comfort grows. Always monitor for stress signals in the dog, like yawning or lip licking, and reinforce boundaries when necessary. As the child grows, teach them how to interact gently with the dog to foster a safe and respectful relationship.
It’s vital to NEVER leave a dog and a newborn/child alone.
For more tips, we have a guide on preparing a dog for a baby.
I followed all these tips when I was pregnant, and my dog and toddler are now best friends.