Dogs are drawn to the sounds and smells of babies
One of the main reasons dogs gravitate towards babies is because of their sounds. The coos, gurgles, cries, and other noises a baby makes are novel and intriguing to a dog. Their hearing is much more powerful than ours, so they pick up on the high-pitched sounds babies make. Dogs are also very attracted to certain smells. The milk and baby powder scent that surrounds infants is attractive to dogs.
Babies exhibit behaviors dogs find comfort in
Dogs are also drawn to some of the behaviors babies exhibit. The uncoordinated, clumsy movements are familiar to dogs. Puppies behave similarly when learning to control their bodies. Dogs may see human babies as puppies of another species and want to interact with them. Babies also don’t exhibit threatening behaviors towards dogs. They remain nonaggressive and docile even when dogs investigate them. This helps dogs feel more comfortable approaching them.
Dogs have an instinct to protect and nurture
Dogs have protective instincts that draw them towards babies. Guarding and caring for the vulnerable is part of their genetic history. Since babies display signs of needing protection, dogs often remain close to monitor any potential threats. Female dogs are especially prone to gently playing with, grooming, and watching over babies. Their maternal instincts kick in around human infants.
Babies show affection for dogs
Even very young babies demonstrate affection for dogs. They will giggle, reach out, and touch gentle dogs that approach them carefully. Dogs relish attention and interaction with humans. Babies provide that without ever scolding or shooing dogs away. Their unconditional friendship is very appealing.
Being around babies releases oxytocin
Oxytocin is a hormone that promotes bonding and feelings of love. When dogs interact with babies, oxytocin is released in both the human and canine brain. This reinforces the pleasant feelings dogs get from being around infants. The oxytocin release makes them seek more time with babies.
Dogs view babies as part of their pack
Since dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years, they often view our human families as their pack. Babies smell like and live with the rest of the pack. So dogs identify them as fellow pack members to love and protect. Their pack mentality makes dogs bond with human babies.
Some potential concerns with dogs and babies
While the idea of a dog lovingly caring for an infant seems sweet, there are some concerns to be aware of. Very young babies should never be left alone and unsupervised with a dog. A dog could accidentally hurt a fragile baby even during friendly interactions. Parents should gently teach dogs how to appropriately interact with babies.
It’s also important not to allow dogs to treat babies like their own puppies. Letting them lick a baby’s face excessively or allowing too rough of play can be dangerous. Dogs should view human babies as cherished pack members, but not as equals to canine puppies.
Signs your dog wants to protect your baby
How can you tell if your dog’s interest in your baby is purely out of love versus protectiveness? Here are some signs your dog wants to keep your little one safe:
- They position themselves between baby and perceived threats like unfamiliar dogs or people
- They sleep directly outside the nursery door at night
- They gently herd your crawling baby away from danger like stairs
- They follow your baby constantly and check on them often
- They become alert and watchful when baby makes loud cries
Tips for introducing your dog and baby
If you have a dog and are expecting a baby, start acclimating your dog early on. Here are some tips:
- Let them smell baby items like blankets before the birth
- Bring home an item the baby wore in the hospital for them to investigate
- Give them lots of affection so they don’t get jealous
- Allow brief, supervised meetings at first
- Redirect inappropriate behaviors calmly and consistently
Benefits of dogs bonding with babies
There are some great benefits to dogs and babies forming a close bond:
- Dogs can learn to alert parents when baby needs help
- Babies often laugh and smile more around gentle dogs
- Dog companionship may boost baby’s immune system
- Babies learn early empathy and caretaking skills with a family dog
- Dogs can comfort babies and help them regulate emotions
The takeaway
Dogs gravitate towards human babies due to a variety of behavioral and instinctual factors. While you should never leave them unattended, bonding with a baby gives dogs feelings of love and purpose. With proper introduction and supervision, dogs often become a baby’s first friend. Nurture this special relationship, and both your baby and dog will reap the benefits for years to come.