Socialization

How to introduce a dog to a baby

Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this

Short answer

Let your dog sniff a blanket or piece of clothing that carries the baby's scent before the baby comes home, then introduce them calmly with the dog on a leash and the baby held securely rather than placed on the floor. Reward calm, relaxed behavior generously, and never leave the two alone together, even for a moment, from day one onward.

Prepare before the baby arrives

In the weeks before the due date, practice any routine changes your dog will need to get used to, a different walk schedule, a baby gate in a new spot, or less lap time, so the adjustment is not tied entirely to the baby's actual arrival.

Keep the first meeting calm and controlled

Have someone else hold the leash while you hold the baby, let your dog sniff from a comfortable distance, and reward calm curiosity with a treat and a relaxed voice rather than a high pitched, excited tone that can amp up arousal.

Build the no exceptions supervision habit immediately

Active, close supervision every single time the dog and baby are in the same room is the standard from the very first day, regardless of how gentle or trustworthy your dog has always seemed, since even a well behaved dog can react unpredictably to a baby's sudden cry or grabbing motion.

Key takeaways

Let your dog get used to the baby's scent before the first in person meeting.
Keep the first introduction calm, leashed, and at a comfortable distance.
Reward relaxed, calm behavior rather than encouraging high energy excitement.
Never leave a dog and baby alone together, from the very first day.