Most families worry about unfamiliar dogs. The research points somewhere else.
What the Research Shows
In a study of children treated for dog bites at an urban trauma center, 72% knew the dog that bit them. Most bites to younger children happened indoors, during friendly interactions the child started with a familiar dog that was resting or still. For children under 6, the most common context was resource guarding, meaning the dog was protecting food, a toy, or a space (44%).[1]
A separate study of 248 dogs found they were less likely to stay in homes with young children. The researchers stressed helping owners build realistic expectations and practical tools for managing kids and dogs together.[2]
None of this means your dog is dangerous. It means preparation matters, and it starts before the baby comes home.
Before the Baby Arrives
Change routines early
Walk times, feeding times, and where the dog sleeps will change. Make those changes weeks ahead, so your dog doesn’t connect them with the baby’s arrival.
Create a dog-only space
Your dog needs a place to rest where no one, including a crawling baby later on, will bother them. Teach your dog to go there calmly and settle.
Know your dog’s triggers
Does your dog stiffen near their food bowl? Guard toys or the couch? Those are the situations to manage now, because they’re the ones most often linked to bites in young children.[1]
Practice the basics that matter
A reliable “place”, a calm walk with a stroller, and waiting at doorways are more useful than tricks.
After the Baby Comes Home
- Supervise every interaction. If you can’t watch, separate with a gate or crate.
- Keep the dog’s space protected. The baby doesn’t go into the dog’s resting spot.
- Watch for stress signals: lip licking, yawning, turning away, stiffening, or leaving the room.
- Keep your dog’s world predictable. Structure is what helps a dog adjust to big changes.
How MK9 Helps
Family Harmony is one of the outcomes MK9 trains for: clear boundaries that create a safe, balanced home. Newborn Introductions, with support through the adjustment phase, are part of the Lifetime Warranty included with every MK9 program.
If your dog already shows guarding or has bitten or nearly bitten, don’t wait. Those cases need personal evaluation.
