How To Prepare Your Dog For a New Baby: A Step-by-Step Guide
Bringing a baby home is a life-changing experience — for you and your dog. The good news? With a little planning and the right tools, preparing your dog for a new baby doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it can help strengthen the bond between your growing family and your furry best mate. At Petdirect, we get pet, and we’re here to help you navigate this new chapter with confidence and care.
Start Training And Routine Changes Early
Dogs thrive on stability, so it’s a good idea to start introducing new routines well before your baby arrives. Consider what your daily schedule will look like once bub is home and gradually adapt now. Will walks need to shift to the afternoon? Will your dog have less access to some rooms? Making small changes early helps your pup adjust at their own pace.
Brush up on obedience basics like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it,” especially if there’ll be baby items within reach. If your dog pulls on the lead or has trouble settling, now’s a great time to explore dog training tools and aids, or work with a positive reinforcement trainer.
Desensitise Your Dog To Baby Sounds And Scents
Babies bring a lot of new noises and smells that can surprise your dog. You can gradually get your pup used to these unfamiliar sensations by:
- Playing recordings of baby cries, coos and giggles at low volume during calm times
- Introducing baby lotions, wipes and powders on your skin before baby arrives
- Carrying a doll wrapped in a blanket to mimic holding a baby
Pair these experiences with treats and praise. Using natural dog treats can help create a positive association and reduce anxiety.
Create A Safe, Calm Space For Your Dog
Just like you’re setting up a nursery for your baby, it’s important to give your dog their own quiet retreat. This space should be somewhere they can go to relax, undisturbed. An inviting space could include a cosy dog bed, favourite toys, and a water bowl.
If your dog shows signs of stress or restlessness, explore calming essentials like diffusers, treats or supplements designed to soothe without sedation. If you have questions around using calming aids, chat with your vet for guidance tailored to your dog and situation.
Set Clear Boundaries For Baby And Dog Spaces
Before baby’s grand entrance, set up baby-only zones (like the nursery) that your pup doesn’t enter unsupervised. Use child gates or closed doors to help reinforce these boundaries. This helps your dog understand where they can and can’t go, and helps protect both your baby and your dog from accidental stress or harm.
When it’s time to make introductions, keep your dog on a lead and allow short, supervised interactions. Keep things calm, use a gentle voice, and praise your dog for relaxed, friendly behaviour.
Keep Life Enriching And Positive For Your Dog
Your dog may not be the centre of attention like before, but keeping them mentally and physically engaged is still important. Rotate interactive dog toys and puzzle feeders to help ward off boredom during nap times, and continue daily exercise suited to their breed and age.
If you're short on time, try puppy training essentials like lick mats or long-lasting chews, which can keep your dog calm and happily occupied while you’re tending to your little one.
Your Bond Can Grow Stronger
Welcoming a baby doesn’t mean your dog has to feel left out. In fact, with the right support, they can become your baby’s most loyal (and furry) guardian. Little things like involving your dog in pram walks or post-feed cuddle time can go a long way in keeping your pack happy and connected.
Need a hand preparing for baby’s arrival? Explore our range of everyday essentials and supplements for a smoother adjustment. Plus, to make life easier for busy pet parents, our AutoDeliver subscription keeps you stocked up on pet necessities, without setting a reminder.
Preparing Your Dog For A New Baby Starts Today
Introducing a new baby isn’t just a big moment for your family — it’s a milestone for your dog too. By preparing early, setting routines and creating positive associations, you'll help your furry friend feel safe, loved and part of the excitement.
At Petdirect, we understand how much your pets mean to you, because we get pet. You’ve got this — and we’ve got all the top-rated picks to support the whole whānau, fur-babies included. Start preparing today and enjoy the journey ahead!