Becoming a parent is exciting, life-changing — and let’s be honest — a little nerve-wracking. For Boston pet owners, welcoming a new baby means not only prepping the nursery but also making sure your furry best friend is ready for the big change. After all, your dog has probably been the center of attention until now, and this transition can be a confusing and emotional time for them too.
At DoodyCalls of Eastern MA, we’ve talked with hundreds of local families who’ve asked the same questions you might be asking now: "How do I help my dog adjust to a baby? Will my dog feel neglected? What if they don’t get along?" Let’s walk through how to prep your pup for the pitter-patter of tiny feet — so everyone in the family feels loved, safe, and supported.
Start early with basic obedience and new routines
If your dog still thinks “sit” is just a suggestion or gets anxious when routines shift, now’s the time to work on that. Dogs thrive on consistency, and once the baby arrives, everything from walk schedules to noise levels can change overnight.
Begin reinforcing simple commands like sit, stay, leave it, and quiet — all of which can be super helpful when you’re juggling a crying newborn and trying to calm a curious canine. Boston pet owners who are already enrolled in obedience classes or working with a trainer are ahead of the game, but it’s never too late to start.
Also, gradually introduce new routines. If your dog is used to long walks every morning but you know your hands will be full soon, start mixing in shorter walks or different times of day. That way, your dog won’t associate the baby with sudden loss of attention.
Desensitize your dog to baby sounds and smells
Let’s face it — babies come with a whole lot of new stuff. From lotions and diapers to strollers and swings, your dog will be surrounded by unfamiliar scents and strange contraptions. Try setting up the nursery early and let your dog sniff around under supervision. You can also play recordings of baby noises like crying or giggling at low volume to get them used to the new sounds.
Some Boston dog owners even use a baby doll to simulate holding a baby, rocking it, or cooing to it, so their dog gets used to seeing this new dynamic. It might feel a little silly at first, but it’s surprisingly effective.
Teach your dog how to share space
Space is about to get tight, especially if you're living in one of Boston's many cozy apartments or townhomes. Before your baby arrives, train your dog to respect boundaries — whether that’s staying out of the nursery or knowing when to settle on their bed instead of jumping on the couch.
You can also create a "safe space" just for your pup—maybe a crate, a quiet room, or a soft bed tucked into a corner — where they can retreat when things get loud or overwhelming.
Keep things clean and healthy for everyone
One major concern we hear from expecting parents in Boston is about keeping things clean and hygienic. That’s where we come in. At DoodyCalls of Eastern MA, we help pet owners stay on top of dog waste cleanup — so you have one less mess (and stress) to worry about.
Regular yard cleanups are especially important with a baby around. Crawling babies are curious, and you definitely don’t want them exploring an area where your dog has done their business. If you’re a city dweller using a shared yard or green space, routine cleanup also keeps your neighborhood healthier and more pleasant for everyone.
Don’t forget to show your pup some love
It’s easy for your dog to feel a little left out once the baby arrives. Their favorite humans are suddenly sleep-deprived and distracted, and their once-quiet home now sounds like a daycare center.
Make an effort to carve out small moments of connection. A quick belly rub, a special treat, or a short solo walk can go a long way in helping your dog feel secure and loved. You don’t need hours — you just need consistency.
And when family or friends come by to meet the baby, don’t forget to let them say hi to your dog too. A little attention from visitors can help reassure your pup that they’re still an important part of the family.
Need help keeping your outdoor space clean and safe? We’ve got your back.
DoodyCalls of Eastern MA is proud to support Boston pet owners through every stage of life — including the chaos and joy of new parenthood. Whether you're in Brookline, Cambridge, Somerville, or anywhere in the Greater Boston area, our team is here to help keep your yard clean, your shoes poop-free, and your dog (and baby!) safe.
We offer flexible, affordable poop-scooping services and commercial pet waste station maintenance so you can focus on what really matters — enjoying time with your growing family.
Call us today or schedule service online, and let us handle the dirty work.