Introducing Dog to Baby

Being mindful of introducing your dog to your newborn shows that you not only care about the safety of your baby, but the wellbeing of your dog as well. There are multiple steps that you can take to help make the transition smoother for your pets…

Before the Baby is Born 

• Train your dog to adapt to a flexible schedule. Long morning walks likely won’t happen once your baby is home 

• Practice basic commands (i.e. sit, lay, down)

• Play sounds that will resemble your baby so that your dog will be familiar with the crying and cooing when your baby is home (see “Baby Crying Sound Effects” by Sound Effects Zone on Spotify) 

• Schedule a visit with the veterinarian prior to estimated delivery date 

After the Baby is Born 

• Ensure an adult is present when your dog is around your baby 

• Consider using a leash when introducing your dog to your baby 

• Have your partner or family member bring an article of the baby’s clothes or a blanket with the baby’s scent on it to your dog while you’re still in the hospital

• Have your dog meet your baby by smelling your baby’s foot, not their head 

• Keep the nursery door closed 

• Give your dog extra attention while baby is napping 

Don’t 

• Force interaction

• Isolate your dog from the rest of your family 

• Leave your baby unsupervised 

• Punish your dog for being curious 

Additional Resources..

• American Kennel Club’s website, “How to Introduce Your Dog to Your New Baby”

• Coxwell Animal Clinic’s website, “Helpful Hints When Introducing Babies and Dogs”