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Preparing your Dog for Your Baby

A Step-by-Step Guide

pregnant woman

Bringing home a baby is exciting, overwhelming, and—if you have a dog—a big adjustment for the whole household. The good news? With the right prep, you can help your dog handle the changes smoothly so you have more calm, less chaos, and a safer, happier home for everyone.

Here’s your no-fluff, step-by-step plan for preparing your dog before your baby arrives.

Why Start Now


Dogs thrive on predictability. When a baby enters the picture, everything shifts: your schedule, your attention, the noise level, even the smells. Preparing your dog ahead of time means fewer surprises for them—and way less stress for you when you’re juggling newborn life.


Step 1: Lock in the Basics


Your dog doesn’t need to know every trick in the book, but these commands are non-negotiable:

  • Come: a fast recall can prevent accidents.

  • Go to / Place / Bed: gives your dog a “safe zone” when you need space.

  • Leave It / Drop It: baby toys, pacifiers, and diapers are not dog toys.

  • On/Off: teaches clear boundaries for furniture and baby gear.

  • Crate Training Crate Training CRATE TRAINING

👉 If your dog struggles with these now, don’t panic—just practice for a few minutes a day. Small, consistent reps add up fast.


Step 2: Desensitize to Baby Life

Introduce the “baby world” before the baby actually arrives:


  • Sounds: Play recordings of crying or cooing at a low volume, reward calm, and slowly turn it up.

  • Gear: Set up the crib, stroller, or swing and let your dog investigate with supervision. Reward calm interest and gently redirect if they get too curious.

  • Smells: Bring home baby lotion, wipes, or even a worn baby blanket from a friend’s infant so your dog associates the scent with calmness.


Step 3: Adjust Routines Early

Your dog will feel changes to daily life more than anything else. Make adjustments now, so the baby isn’t blamed later:


  • Shift walk times closer to what they’ll look like post-baby.

  • Practice shorter training/play sessions instead of long ones.

  • Decide sleeping arrangements—if your dog won’t be allowed in the nursery or bedroom, start that now.


Step 4: Create Boundaries & Safe Zones

  • Use baby gates to keep certain rooms dog-free.

  • Set up a cozy, designated dog space (crate, mat, or bed) where they can retreat and relax.

  • Teach your dog threshold manners—waiting calmly before entering a room, especially the nursery.


Step 5: Rehearse with Baby Gear

Do a “dress rehearsal” before the baby comes:


  • Practice walking your dog while pushing the stroller.

  • Carry a weighted blanket or doll while practicing commands like “sit” and “stay.”

  • Feed your dog while baby sounds play so they pair the noise with positive experiences.

dog and a baby

Step 6: First Introduction to Baby

When the big day comes:


  1. Let your dog sniff a baby blanket or clothing item first.

  2. Keep your dog on leash and rooms apart for a minimum 3-4 days

  3. Reward calm behavior. Don’t force closeness.

  4. Always supervise, no exceptions. Even the gentlest dog can make a mistake.


Step 7: Hire a walker or board your dog for the first 1-2 weeks when the baby comes

  • The biggest feedback I've received from new parents is they are SO glad they crate trained and hired help, if possible, when the baby is home.

  • Have a game plan for a dog walker or dog sitter for the first week at least if possible so you can focus on your new baby and rest


Pro Tips for Busy Parents

  • Use high-value rewards (special treats your dog only gets during baby prep).

  • Track wins in a shared note, seeing progress keeps you motivated.

  • Call in backup if needed. A professional trainer (like us at Pack Leader Help) can give you a personalized game plan.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until the last week to start training.

  • Introducing all the new changes at once.

  • Assuming your dog “already knows” commands under stress (a crying newborn is a whole new distraction).

  • Neglecting your own bandwidth, baby prep is a marathon, not a sprint.


Bottom Line

Preparing your dog for a baby doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few focused skills, gradual exposure, and clear boundaries, you’ll set your dog and your whole family—up for success.


If you want hands-on help with your dog, explore our programs HERE. If you're in a rush to accomplish this prior to baby coming, we recommend our Immersion Program.


Cheers,

Brianna Dick

Owner & Head Trainer

Pack Leader Help


 
 
 
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