Pooch Parenting

78. Should you let your dog lick your baby?

• Michelle Stern • Episode 78

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If you have ever wondered if your dog should be licking your baby in the face or what to do about it, this is the episode for you. I discuss what dog licks might mean, why it might not be such a good idea, and why bringing in a dog expert might help you to get more clarity.

Why do dogs lick babies?

  1. Babies taste good to dogs. They might taste like milk or even spit up. Yum!
  2. Dogs are curious and like to explore with their sense of taste.
  3. Your dog may be uncomfortable and might be using a form of appeasement.
  4. Your dog could be predatory.
  5. Your dog might be trying to assertively push the baby away.

Risks of allowing dogs lick newborn babies

  • Your newborn doesn't yet have a strong immune system...and dogs lick their butts along with other gross items, such as dead animals or poop.
  • The "sharp end" of the dog can be unsafe around the vital regions of your baby's body (head and neck)
  • If your dog is stressed and is pushing baby away, this pressure might push your infant off your lap or sofa and onto the floor
  • If you are unclear if your dog is acting predatory, it's not a risk worth taking

Other supportive resources for parents with dogs

Listen to my limited series podcast, Parenting Kids and Dogs 101 here, on my website, or on your favorite podcast player.

It's only natural for questions about our kids and dogs to arise from time to time, especially as our babies grow up and our dogs mature. And if I'm being honest, it's not really worth asking for free advice from friends or online because you can't rely on the accuracy of the feedback you are getting. If you'd like to learn more about The Pooch Parenting Society, where I offer practical life and science-based tips and strategies, ongoing support and a safe place to share, head on over to www.safekidsanddogs.com. From one parent to another, I see you and I promise, you're not alone.

Thank you for listening!