Pregnant with a Dog at Home? Here’s How I’m Managing It All
Pregnancy is beautiful—but also exhausting, overwhelming, and full of surprises. Add a wiggly, attention-loving dog to the mix? Some days feel like a circus.
As a first-time mom-to-be and full-time dog mom, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) how to balance pregnancy symptoms with pup responsibilities. Whether it’s navigating morning sickness with a dog pawing at the door or trying to rest while he’s zooming around the house, I’m learning to adapt.
Here’s what’s been working for me—and a few things I wish I knew earlier.
1. Adjusting Our Walk Routine (and My Expectations)
In early pregnancy, I powered through our usual morning and evening walks. But once nausea and fatigue hit, I had to adjust:
- I switched to shorter, more frequent walks
- On rough days, I used an interactive toy or puzzle feeder to burn off his energy indoors
- I scheduled longer walks on weekends when my partner could help
- My go-to puzzle toy that keeps him busy while I rest
2. Embracing Slow Mornings (with a Shadow Dog)
Pregnancy fatigue is real. But my dog still expected breakfast, cuddles, and his daily routine—on the dot. So, I started building a new morning routine:
- Set up a “cozy corner” in the living room where I could sip tea while he played
- Added soothing background music to help him stay calm
- Introduced a snuggle session on the couch with a pregnancy pillow (highly recommend!)
- This pregnancy pillow is a game-changer—for both of us.
3. Involving Him in Baby Prep
I talk to my dog a lot. So naturally, I started narrating as I unpacked baby items, folded tiny clothes, and rearranged furniture. It might sound silly, but it helped:
- He sniffed everything with curiosity
- I gave him a treat when he stayed calm near new gear
- We practiced “place” and “wait” around the crib and bassinet
Soon, he started associating baby things with good vibes—no stress, no surprises.
4. Making Space — Physically and Emotionally
As nesting kicks in, I’ve been decluttering and reorganizing. I made sure my dog has:
- His own space in the house that won’t change once the baby arrives
- A new, comfy dog bed in our bedroom so he still feels close
- A sense of security in his routine, even if the baby’s arrival shakes things up
5. Giving Myself Grace
Some days I just don’t have the energy. My dog watches me from the hallway while I nap. Sometimes he gets bored. Sometimes he whines.
But I’ve learned this: I’m doing enough. My love for him hasn’t changed—just the way I show up right now.
He’s learning, too. And soon, he’ll have a new best friend to grow up with.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy with a dog at home has its challenges—but it’s also been a source of comfort, laughter, and grounding. If you’re walking this same path, I hope you know you’re not alone.
Got any tips for managing a dog while pregnant? Or questions about how to prepare your pup for baby life? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to connect!