Creating a Nursery for Both Baby and Dog

Preparing a nursery for your newborn is an exciting milestone—but when you have a dog in the family, the design requires thoughtful consideration of everyone’s needs. A well-planned pet-friendly nursery fosters harmony between your baby’s needs and your dog’s comfort, while ensuring safety and hygiene. This guide will help you create a space where both your newborn and your canine companion can thrive together.

White baby crib with peach bedding, wooden rocking horse, and storage boxes in a minimal nursery design.

A calm and simple nursery setup—ideal for creating a safe, pet-friendly space for both your newborn and dog.

Planning Your Space: Key Considerations

Before you begin redecorating or purchasing furniture, consider these fundamental aspects of a pet-friendly nursery:

Safety First

Sturdy furniture: Choose solid, stable pieces that won’t topple if your dog leans against them.
Secure shelving: Install secure wall-mounted shelves for items you want to keep out of reach.
Cord management: Secure blind cords, electrical cables, and baby monitor wires out of reach of your dog.
Gate options: Consider whether you need a permanent gate or a portable barrier that can be used as needed.

Defining Zones

Creating distinct areas within the nursery helps establish boundaries for your dog:

Baby zone: The cot, changing table, and feeding area are primarily for the baby
Shared space: Play areas where supervised interaction can occur
Dog retreat: A small, comfortable spot exclusively for your dog when they’re in the room
Storage zone: Secured storage for both baby and dog items

Furniture and Layout Strategies

The physical elements of your nursery play a crucial role in creating a functional space for everyone:

Cot Placement

Position the cot away from climbing opportunities, such as ottomans or low shelves.
Choose a cot with a higher clearance underneath if your dog tends to hide under furniture.
Consider a cot with solid sides rather than slats if your dog might try to pass toys through.

Changing Area Safety

Use a changing table with secure storage underneath rather than open shelving.
Install a sturdy barrier or gate around the changing area if needed.
Keep nappies, wipes, and creams in sealed containers or drawers.

Seating Considerations

If your dog is allowed on furniture, choose a nursing chair with washable covers.
Consider a chair with higher armrests to create a boundary between your lap and your dog.
Add a small side table for keeping items out of your dog’s reach while feeding the baby.

Storage Solutions

Use lidded bins for toys, which prevent your dog from accessing small items.
Install hooks at adult height for hanging items like nappy bags and baby clothes.
Consider using lockable cabinets for items that might interest your dog.

Creating Comfort for Your Dog

Making your dog feel welcome in the nursery prevents feelings of jealousy or exclusion:

A Dedicated Dog Space

Comfortable bed: Position a washable dog bed in a quiet corner where your dog can observe without being in the way.
Familiar items: Include a blanket or toy with your dog’s scent to establish the area as theirs.
Visual access: Ensure the bed is positioned so your dog can see you and the baby, but isn’t in the direct path of foot traffic.

Gradual Introduction

Allow your dog to explore the nursery before the baby arrives.
Use positive reinforcement when your dog settles calmly in their designated area.
Practice having your dog in the room while you simulate baby care routines.

Sensory Considerations

Small dog sitting beside a mother holding her newborn baby on a bed, with a baby bottle placed nearby.

Introducing your baby to the family dog requires patience, reassurance, and creating calm shared moments like this one.

Both babies and dogs are sensitive to their environment in unique ways:

Sound Management

White noise machine: Can benefit both the baby and the dog by masking sudden noises.
Quiet toys: Choose dog toys that don’t squeak or make loud noises for use in the nursery.
Door considerations: A door that closes quietly prevents startling either baby or dog.

Scent Control

Air purifier: Helps manage pet dander and maintains air quality.
Washable fabrics: Choose materials that can be easily cleaned to manage pet odours.
Separate storage: Keep baby items and dog toys in separate, closed containers.

Visual Calm

Neutral colours: Choose calming colour schemes that benefit both babies and dogs.
Reduced clutter: Maintain an organised space to decrease stress for sensitive dogs.
Controlled lighting: Adjustable lighting helps manage stimulation levels for both baby and dog.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

Maintaining a clean environment is essential when combining babies and pets:

Flooring Choices

Hard flooring: Easier to clean than carpet and doesn’t trap pet hair.
Washable rugs: Opt for machine-washable options instead of traditional rugs.
Regular cleaning schedule: Plan for more frequent cleaning of floors and surfaces.

🐕

MUDROOM MUST-HAVE

Space-saving solution: Did you know? A simple boot tray can be repurposed as a brilliant paw-washing station! Place a shallow rubber tray near your entrance with a small towel - it’s perfect for quick paw cleaning without the need for major renovations.

Many dog owners overlook simple solutions when planning their mudroom. The key to success lies in understanding that effective dirt management doesn’t require expensive installations. With creativity, budget-friendly materials, and smart placement, you can create a functional space that keeps your home spotless while maintaining style and practicality for daily use.

🏠 Start with waterproof mats and designated storage hooks before investing in major installations

A well-lit mudroom with a built-in white bench and hooks on a paneled wall. A bright blue jacket hangs from one of the hooks. The room features ample storage with large, white floor-to-ceiling cabinets and a light-colored tile floor.

Ready to transform your entryway into a dog-friendly zone?

DISCOVER PROVEN SOLUTIONS

Fabric Selection

Hair-resistant fabrics: Such as microfiber, leather, and tightly woven textiles, resist fur accumulation.
Waterproof covers: Use for the nursing chair, ottoman, and any other upholstered items.
Washable curtains: Select machine-washable window treatments.

Air Quality

Regular filter changes: Maintain heating/cooling system filters to reduce dander.
Pet-safe plants: Consider air-purifying plants that are non-toxic to both babies and dogs.
Grooming station: Set up a regular grooming area outside the nursery to reduce loose fur.

Managing the Transition

When your baby arrives, these strategies help everyone adjust:

Before Baby Comes Home

Set up early: Establish the nursery at least 6-8 weeks before your due date.
Practice routines: Simulate baby care while your dog is present.
Create positive associations: Reward your dog for calm behaviour in the nursery.
Introduce scents: Bring home items with your baby’s scent before bringing the baby home.

The First Days Home

Controlled introduction: Allow your dog to investigate the nursery with the baby present under close supervision.
Maintain routines: Keep your dog’s feeding and walking schedule as consistent as possible.
Reward calm behaviour: Offer treats and praise when your dog behaves appropriately around the nursery.
Supervised time: Never leave your dog alone with the baby, regardless of how well they seem to be adjusting.

Product Recommendations for Pet-Friendly Nurseries

These items can help create a harmonious nursery environment:

For Safety

Half-door: Allows you to keep the dog out while still being able to monitor the room.
Pressure-mounted gates: Create boundaries without damaging walls.
Door latch guards: Prevent dogs from opening doors.
Furniture anchors: Secure dressers and bookshelves to walls.

For Comfort

Washable dog bed with waterproof liner: Ensures easy cleaning.
Calming diffusers: Help anxious dogs adjust to new sounds and routines.
Sound machines: Mask disruptive noises for both baby and dog.
Pet-specific air purifier: Reduces dander and improves air quality.

For Convenience

Covered nappy bin: Prevents dogs from accessing used nappies.
Storage ottomans offer seating and concealed storage.
Wall-mounted organisers: Keep essentials out of reach.
Furniture covers: Protect larger items from fur and accidents.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge: Dog Wants to Sleep Under the Cot

Solution: Create an equally appealing sleeping spot nearby with better visibility and comfort.

Challenge: Dog is Frightened by Baby Noises

Solution: Gradually acclimate your dog to recordings of baby sounds at increasing volumes before the baby arrives.

Challenge: Dog Brings Toys into Baby’s Space

Solution: Create a special toy box just for dog toys in their designated area and consistently return toys there.

Challenge: Dog Seems Anxious in the Nursery

Solution: Create positive associations by offering treats, praise, and attention when your dog is calm in the nursery.

Conclusion

Creating a pet-friendly nursery requires thoughtful planning, but the effort pays off in household harmony. With careful consideration of safety, comfort, and hygiene, you can design a space where both your baby and dog feel secure and valued. Remember that the adjustment period takes time—be patient with your dog as they adapt to the new arrangements and family dynamic.

By creating an inclusive environment from the start, you lay the foundation for a strong and lasting bond between your child and pet that can flourish for years to come.

Have you created a pet-friendly nursery? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!

Thank you for reading this article. Your engagement means the world to us at Frenchie Breed.

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Further Reading:

A Complete Guide to Introducing Your Dog to a New Baby
Understanding Dog Body Language Around Children
Managing Dog Anxiety After Baby’s Arrival