Babies and Dogs: Making Sure Your Home Is Safe
Learn how to set up your space and routines to keep both your dog and baby safe and happy—starting day one.
Read ArticleBefore Baby Meets Dog
Adding a baby to your home is a big transition—for everyone, including your dog. Here's how to make it smoother and safer for all.
10 Essential Preparation Tips
1
Refresh Basic Obedience
Brush up on commands like "sit," "stay," and "leave it" to ensure your dog responds reliably when the baby arrives.
2
Practice Baby Sounds
Use baby cry recordings to gradually ease your dog into new sounds they'll hear frequently once your little one arrives.
3
Adjust Attention Routines
Get your pup used to shorter alone times and varied attention schedules now, before baby's arrival changes your routine.
4
Calm Greetings Only
Reinforce that calm behavior earns attention and affection. Practice calm greetings to prepare for when you're holding baby.
5
Partner Alignment
Talk through dog responsibilities and care routines with your partner before baby comes to ensure consistency.
6
Create Safe Spaces
Designate cozy baby-free zones where your dog can retreat when they need a break from all the new activity.
7
Establish Boundaries
Set and reinforce space rules (like keeping dogs off the changing table or out of the nursery) before baby is born.
8
Model Respect
Let baby see you treat animals kindly and gently from the start. This models positive behavior as they grow.
9
Visitors & Chaos Practice
Help your dog practice calm greetings when visitors arrive and avoid resource guarding behaviors before baby comes home.
10
Introduce Baby Gear
Let your dog safely sniff and explore swings, carriers, strollers and other baby items before they're in regular use.
Ready to Feel Even More Prepared?
Download the complete guide with even more expert tips for introducing your baby to your dog—and feel confident about what's ahead.
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Kids and the Family Dog
This guide is just the first step. Our full course helps families prepare dogs for life with a baby—and beyond. With expert-backed tips for every stage, you’ll feel confident helping your pup adjust safely, calmly, and joyfully to life with a little one.
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