Introducing Your Baby to Siblings and Pets

You made it through the first night. You’re figuring out feeding. You’ve likely perfected the skill of eating one-handed without dropping crumbs on a sleeping newborn.

Now comes another big moment — introducing your baby to the rest of the household. That might mean a curious older sibling, a cautious toddler, or a pet who’s suddenly wondering why things smell different.

This transition can be sweet, awkward, funny, and emotional all at once. There’s no perfect way to do it. There is a gentle way.

Siblings: Curiosity, Pride, and a Little Chaos

Older kids tend to feel everything at once. Excitement. Jealousy. Love. Confusion. All of it is normal.

A few ways to support those first introductions:

• Let them take the lead. Forced hellos rarely go well. Let your child approach when they’re ready. Even hesitant toddlers usually wander over on their own time.
• Give them a role. Small jobs help a lot. Sock picker. Burp cloth holder. Official baby announcer. It doesn’t need to matter — it just needs to be theirs.
• Match their energy. Some kids want to touch—and kiss—immediately. Others observe quietly from across the room. Both are valid ways of adjusting.

Pets: Adjusting to the New Normal

Pets notice change immediately. Dogs may stick closer. Cats may pretend nothing has changed while clearly keeping score. The goal is safety, calm, and consistency.

Helpful tips for pet introductions:

• Choose a calm first meeting. Give the introduction your attention. Slow, supervised, and low-pressure.
• Keep routines steady. Walks, meals, and playtime matter. Familiar routines help pets feel secure.
• Include them. Let pets sit nearby during feeds or tummy time. It helps reinforce that the baby isn’t a replacement — just someone new in the mix.

While you're managing the household transition, you might also find yourself navigating the "fourth trimester" intensities. Our First Month Survival Guide has more on what to expect for your own recovery.

Let the Funny Moments Happen

There will be moments you never forget. A toddler offering the baby a snack they can’t eat. A dog depositing toys next to the bassinet. A cat claiming the stroller the moment you turn around.

These moments aren’t failures. They’re signs of curiosity and adjustment. They’re how a household learns itself again.

Introducing a baby to siblings and pets isn’t about doing it “right.” It’s about creating safety, trust, and connection over time. Your job is to guide, supervise, reassure, and give everyone space to settle into their new roles — including you.