Teaching Pups To Be Gentle with Baby

Bringing a baby into a home with a dog is a heartwarming experience. Your furry best friend and your little one have the potential to form a beautiful bond—one filled with love, laughter, and lifelong companionship. However, as excited as your pup may be, they need to learn how to interact with your baby in a gentle, safe, and respectful way.

Dogs, by nature, are curious and affectionate, and while they may not intend to be rough, their playful energy or enthusiasm could be overwhelming for a tiny baby. The good news? Dogs and babies can be besties, they just might need a little guidance.

Sit & Stay Pro Tip — Your Fur Baby and Your Human Baby

Prepare Your Dog Before the Baby Arrives

Your dog thrives on routine, and a new baby brings big changes. Preparing your pup ahead of time can ease the transition.

• Adjust Their Routine Gradually – If you expect changes in your dog’s daily schedule, start making small adjustments before the baby arrives so your pup can adapt.

• Introduce Baby Sounds and Smells – Play recordings of baby noises (crying, cooing, giggling) at a low volume and reward calm behavior. Before bringing the baby home, let your dog sniff a blanket or clothing item with the baby’s scent.

• Reinforce Obedience Commands – Make sure your dog knows essential commands like "Sit," "Stay," "Gentle," and "Leave it." These will be invaluable once your baby is home.

The First Meeting—Keeping It Calm and Positive

The first introduction between your baby and dog should be slow and controlled.

• Keep Your Dog Leashed at First – Let your dog observe from a distance and reward calm behavior with treats and praise.

• Stay Relaxed – Dogs pick up on our energy, so remain calm to reassure them that everything is okay.

• Gradually Allow Closer Interaction – If your dog remains calm, allow gentle supervised sniffs, always ensuring the baby is safe.

Teaching Gentle Behavior

Once your dog is familiar with the baby, it’s time to reinforce gentle interactions.

• Use the “Gentle” Command – If your dog tends to use their paws or nuzzle too roughly, teach them the command “Gentle” by rewarding soft, careful movements.

• Discourage Jumping or Overexcitement – If your dog gets too excited, redirect them with a toy or a command like “Sit” or “Lay down.”

• Set Clear Boundaries – If you don’t want your dog in the nursery or on the baby’s blankets, set these boundaries early.

Supervision is Key

Never leave your baby and dog alone together, no matter how well-behaved your pup is. Babies can make sudden movements or sounds that might startle even the gentlest dog. Always supervise their interactions to ensure safety for both of their safety

Show Your Dog They’re Still Loved

A new baby means a potential affection shift, and your dog might feel left out. Make sure to spend quality time with your pup, offer affection, and involve them in family activities so they don’t associate the baby with less attention.

A Lifelong Friendship in the Making

With patience, training, and love, your dog and baby can develop a strong, gentle, and beautiful bond. As your child grows, they’ll have a loyal four-legged friend by their side, and your dog will have a lifelong companion to love and protect.

Embrace the journey—it’s the beginning of a truly special friendship!

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Vet Recommendation — Remain Calm

For new parents, introducing your pup to your baby may be one of the most nerve-wracking parts of coming home. But it is imperative that you remain calm. We know that’s a big ask to have of new parents. Just remember that dogs can read emotions and if you’re freaking out—they’re prone to freak out too.

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