Family and household
Preparing a Dog for a New Baby
The groundwork that reduces stress for the dog and risk for the baby, started well before the due date.
Start early, not in the last fortnight
Sudden changes in routine, attention and household noise are what most often unsettle dogs when a baby arrives, so introduce those changes gradually over months rather than all at once in the final weeks of pregnancy.
Rehearse the changes that are coming
Play recordings of a baby crying at low volume during calm activities like feeding, building up gradually. Practise the walking routine that will actually be possible with a pram, and any changes to where the dog sleeps or has access to, well ahead of time so they are not linked to the baby's arrival.
- Teach a solid, well-reinforced 'go to your place' or mat behaviour
- Practise calm greetings rather than jumping up, using management if needed
- Give the dog a predictable amount of one-to-one time that will still exist after the birth
The first introduction and beyond
Let the dog approach at its own pace with the baby held securely, watching for calm, relaxed body language rather than forcing a close greeting. Supervision around a baby or young child should be active and constant — never assume any dog, however well-mannered, does not need it.
Watch the dog's welfare too
A new baby genuinely reduces the time and attention a dog receives, and unmet exercise or enrichment needs can show up as new behaviour problems. A tired, stressed dog and a stressed new parent are a difficult combination — enlisting help with dog walks in the early months protects everyone.