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Baby Registry Guide

Top 10 must-have items for expecting dog parents (that will save the day)

While cute baby clothes may be the go-to gift, practical items like a hands-free leash or a white noise machine will be your true lifesavers. 

A hands-free leash will free up your hands for the stroller when walking your dog, and a white-noise machine will keep your baby sleeping soundly, even with your dog barking nearby. 

Deciding what to get pre-baby can feel like a lot, but with the support of the Dog Meets Baby community, we’ve curated a list of must-have items to purchase or add to your baby registry
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Disclaimer: Most of the links in this post are affiliate link. That means if you purchase an item using the link below, Dog Meets Baby makes a little bit of money without adding any extra cost to you. We really appreciate any time you purchase through these links!

Courses

Get started on the right foot with Dog Meets Baby Courses. From the First Meeting to the Dog Body Language Course, Dominika will set you up for success with your dog and baby.
Watch the videos below from families who took a Dog Meets Baby Course.

Pre-Baby Bundle

Save $20 on the bundle
Feel confident & prepared
Get the support you need

Ultimate Bundle

Get all Dog Meets Baby courses
Be fully prepared
From pre-baby to preschooler

Pre-baby Training Items

Prepare your dog for your baby's arrival by introducing them to essential baby items. We recommend starting in the 3rd trimester or earlier if your dog needs more training. The Dog Meets Baby Courses provide in-depth training techniques and tips on effectively using these items to ensure a smooth transition.

Playmat

Playmats create a perfect baby-only zone, and we recommend training your dog to stay off the playmat or play gym.

Fisher-Price Perfect Sense Deluxe Gym

Comfortable for baby and is a perfect gift-giving baby product
20 activities that engage the senses and machine washable

Shwally Play Mat

Non-toxic, reversible (beautiful designs!), easy to wipe and clean memory foam
A family-run company with 2 little kids and a dog
5% OFF First Order: DOGMEETS_BABY
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MioTetto Soft Non-Toxic Baby Play Mat

Easy to assemble/ disassemble, durable, and non-slip surfaceble and put away
A personal favorite because you can customize the size and shape, and it lasts many years

Uanlauo Foldable Baby Play Mat

Easy to clean with reversible design
Practical, easy to store, and comes with a travel bag

Dolls, Blankets & the Snuggle Puppy

You can use a doll or an item wrapped up in a baby blanket roughly the size of a newborn to practice obedience, such as Place, Away, Stay, On/Off, while holding, carrying, passing, wearing, putting in and out of the crib or a stroller, etc., your fake baby.

Snuggle puppy is great for training your dog to be comfortable in their dog zone, behind a baby gate, or outside the nursery. It can help your dog to feel less anxious about all the changes. This toy has a heartbeat sound and a heat pack inside to soothe your dog. It's perfect for dogs who won’t chew up a stuffie type of toy.

JC Toys La Baby 20-inch Doll

A variety of ethnicities that are soft, durable, and washable
The real look of the baby is helpful for dogs in pre-baby training

Bud and Zo Keepsake Baby Blanket

Soft and snuggly, we love the personalized design
It is one of the most valued items by my children
10% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY
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SmartPetLove Original Snuggle Puppy

Safe, hypoallergenic material and machine washable
Frequently bought by clients of mine, it truly has a calming effect on many dogs

Dog's First Baby: A Board Book

Cute story, a sturdy board book for babies
This book is close to meeting my criteria for showing safe baby & dog interactions

Baby Wraps and Baby Carriers

Practicing wearing a baby carrier with a doll (or a stuffie) is a great way to get your dog accustomed to your new routines and the presence of the carrier on you. 

Example: Wrap your phone in a baby blanket or stick it in the carrier with the doll and play an audio of a crying newborn.

Baby Tula for children 7 to 60 lbs

A Dog Meets Baby team favorite - we love the designs. Voted "Most Stylish Baby Carrier" by Forbes
From infant to toddler sizes, free baby-wearing consults & online tutorials
15% OFF: DogMeetsBaby
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Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Carrier for babies 8 to 32 lbs

Great value for money, four ways to wear
Light, comfortable, easy to adjust and put on without needing help

Solly Baby Kea Tula Infantino for babies 8 to 25 lbs

Easy to use, online tutorials & free babywearing consult, made from natural fibers
Soft and breathable fabric, named "The Best Wrap" by Wirecutter Magazine
10% OFF: dogmeetsbaby10
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KeaBabies Baby Wrap Carrier for babies 7 to 35 lbs

Soft, stretchy material and comfortable to wear
Perfect for newborns, helpful online tutorials, and great value for money

Baby Lotions and Rolling Carts

Choose a baby lotion (or diaper cream) you plan to use for your baby, even if it's 'unscented.' Use this lotion to create a positive association with that smell and practice cues like “Place.”

The rolling cart is perfect for storing and organizing essentials like lotions, diapers, wipes, and dog treats within easy reach. You can use the treats to train “Place” cue with your dog while your baby is napping.

Tubby Todd

Clean-sourced and cruelty-free with a variety of products, a personal favorite for kids
Fantastic quality, works well on eczema and sensitive skin
10% OFF AUTO APPLIED
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Earth Mama Organics

Organic, cruelty-free, and chemical-free products, light-scented or unscented
A personal favorite for postpartum & nursing, many products for the whole family
10% OFF (USA only): DOGMEETSBABY
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Simple Houseware Heavy Duty 3-Tier Metal Utility Rolling Cart

Different color options, easy to assemble and move around
Excellent quality, well-built, solid steel frame, compact size

Hamone 3-Tier Utility Rolling Cart

Customizable: adjustable shelves, removable handle, additional accessoires available: hooks, hanging baskets and pegboards
Easy assembly, lightweight but stable 200lbs load capacity

Dog Beds

Since "place" is often the most frequently used cue when you have a baby, investing in a comfortable dog bed your dog likes and goes to happily is very helpful. Now might be the perfect time to splurge on a new bed that will help you with training and give your dog a safe place. Here are some of our favorite picks.

Best Friends by Sheri
Donut Dog Bed

Perfect for dogs who get cold easily or love fluffy beds
Great value for money, soft, washes well, cozy and comfy

COOLAROO The Original Cooling Elevated Dog Bed

Easy to clean, portable, and lightweight
Great for keeping dogs cool on hot days, especially dogs with a lot of fur

Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed

Affordable orthopedic bed, machine washable cover, available in many sizes
Pet parents love the soft colors that blend well with the home decor

PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed

Cover is machine washable and water resistant and easy to put back on
Memory foam holds up well; the only dog bed my dog has not destroyed

Treats

A treat your dog loves makes training more effective. Opt for smaller, easy-to-handle treats that allow for quick rewards during training sessions. To make your search easier, check out some of our favorite treats.

Pupford Training Treats

Small, non-greasy, and a great variety, even for dogs with allergies
Each treat is only 1 calorie, so you can feel guilt-free while training
10% OFF: DogMeetsBaby
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Stewart Freeze Dried Dog Treats

Great to keep on countertops to reward desired behaviors
Use as treats or add to puzzle toys, long shelf life

Grandma Lucy's Organic Oven Baked Dog Treats

Organic and vegetarian treats for all life stages
A personal family favorite, and my kids even love them!

Buddy Biscuits Trainers

Tiny and soft treats, low in calories, cost-effective
Perfect training treats, comes in multiple flavors

A Sleeping Baby & A Barking Dog

Nothing is more stressful than finally getting your baby to sleep, only to have your dog start barking.

White Noise Machines

White noise machines are great for drowning out noises, making them perfect for your baby and dog. Place one in the bedroom or nursery, outside the room your baby sleeps in, by the front door, and even in your dog's zone to help everyone in the house get a good nap and a good night's sleep. Portable and chargeable machines, especially the ones with light, are lifesavers during power outages.

Hatch Rest+

Dog Meets Baby community favorite, light & sound machine for any age
User-friendly app, time-to-rise light, portable design

Momcozy Sound Machine

34 sounds and many light options; rechargeable or use plugged in
Works well with an app - ideal for when you're nap trapped - or by using the machine buttons if you don't have your phone.

Yogasleep Hushh Portable White Noise Sound Machine

A personal favorite, portable sound machine, great for travel and USB - rechargeable
It has multiple volume settings and three different noises

Yogasleep Dohm Classic White Noise Sound Machine

Simple to use with 2 speeds
Perfect to set inside/outside of nursery, by front door, or in dog zones

Air Purifiers & Doorbells

Air purifiers reduce our exposure to bad air quality. They help eliminate allergy triggers like pollen, pet dander, dust, and mold spores. Quality air purifiers help reduce asthma triggers in the air and the risk of airborne virus exposure. They also provide a steady, soothing sound that can help keep dogs calm while the baby sleeps or drown out noises that would otherwise trigger barking. 

Video doorbells are an excellent tool for reducing disruptive doorbell rings that can wake your baby or trigger your dog’s alert barking.

LEVOIT Air Purifier

Long-lasting with high performance, perfect for nursery (we own 2)
Great for small/ medium rooms, soft white noise

Coway Airmega

4-stage filtration, works great as air purifier and white noise machine
A personal favorite (we own 5), used for wildfire smoke & drowning out sounds for dogs

Ring Video Doorbell

Excellent solution for sleeping babies & barking dogs, works with Alexa
Easy to set up and install, professional monitoring (paid feature)

Blink Video Doorbell

Easy-to-navigate app, budget-friendly, compact design
Works with Alexa and can connect with existing doorbell wiring

Frosted Window Covers

This is an excellent solution for areas where your dog tends to watch and react to passersby, e.g., when you have floor-to-ceiling windows or your dog can see what’s going on outside from the couch. These covers help reduce barking and agitation triggered by outside activity and come in a variety of styles.

Coavas Window Privacy Film Frosted Glass

Many size options, removable and reusable, static cling design
Heat and glare control, UV blocking

rabbitgoo Window Privacy Film

Many colors and patterns, removable and reusable with static cling
UV ray protection and heat control

Walking

Walking your dog after the baby arrives doesn't have to be stressful. We recommend practicing leash training with both your dog and stroller before the baby comes. Here are some essential items to make your walks smoother and safer.

Harnesses

Two items that can make a big difference when you walk your dog with a stroller, or your baby in the carrier are a no-pull harness and a hands-free leash.

Non-Stop Dogwear

A family favorite for reliability, durability, and style, so light!
Perfect for adventures like hiking or a walk in the neighborhood
20% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY
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2 Hounds Design Freedom Harness

Another personal favorite, helps walking dogs that like to pull
Durable, well-made, and adjustable to fit any size dog

rabbitgoo No-Pull Dog Harness

Comfortable and comes in a range of colors and sizes
The design makes it simple to put on and snug not to slip out

Truelove Adjustable No-Pull Dog Harness

Variety of sizes with 4 points of adjustability to fit comfortably yet snug
A nice handle on the back of the harness allows for a quick grab if necessary

Hands-free Leashes

They are very useful when your hands are literally full, e.g., when you are pushing a stroller, holding your toddler’s hand, and carrying your toddler’s stuff, or when you have more than one dog. You can also get a hands-free belt and attach your dog’s regular leash.⁠
Pro tip: If you have a strong dog, get one that has metal snaps and closures.

Non-Stop Dogwear

It is hands down the best leash I have ever owned; it is so well-made!
Great design and features for walking, running, and everything in between
20% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY
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High Tail Hikes

Dog Meets Baby favorite for BioThane material: waterproof, odor-proof, and so easy to clean
8-in-1 design makes this leash versatile, perfect for co-walking with toddlers
10% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY10
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Tuff Mutt

Great value for money, 2 handles help when navigating city sidewalks and trails
The bungy helps absorb the pressure when the dog moves quickly

Kurgo RSG Utility Belt

Adjustable waist (28” - 45”), very comfortable for the walker
Multi-functional belt, you can attach different leashes, multiple dogs, and treat pouches

Treats

Opt for non-greasy, small, and easy-to-handle treats that are perfect for training during walks or to safely redirect your dog’s attention from approaching dogs or people. All treats are made in USA.

Pupford Training Treats

Freeze-dried training treats are a personal favorite - small, low in calories, and economical (475/package)
Save & Subscribe Program (up to 30% off) and great discounts on selected products
10% OFF: DogMeetsBaby
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Charlee Bear Original Crunch Dog Treats

A personal favorite for stroller walks, it keeps hands clean and odor-free
Low in calories, doesn’t crumble, an excellent everyday treat

Bark Pouch

Variety of flavors with limited ingredients, which is great for dogs with allergies
Great for stroller or baby wearing walks, keeps hands clean
10% OFF: dogmeetsbaby10
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Zuke’s Mini Naturals Soft Chewy Dog Treats

A high-quality treat that is chewy and soft but firm
It makes a great training treat, the kind of treat most dogs like a lot

Stroller Organizers & Safety Items

Stroller organizers are perfect for organizing items for easy grabbing. 

Safety items - One of the biggest worries of new parents is being approached (and attacked) by an unleashed dog while out on a walk with their baby and dog. I recommend carrying safety items, like a big umbrella, extra leash, compressed air, or citronella spray. Check out our top items here.

Momcozy Universal Stroller Organizer

Works for most strollers with their universal strap design
Easy to clean and versatile with two cup holders and plenty of storage to grab items quickly

Swanoo NON-SLIP Stroller Organizer

It fits 90% of stroller brands with its versatile design of non-slip straps
Two insulated cup holders hold up to 40 oz drinks and plenty of storage for quick access

ZOMAKE Golf Umbrella

Easy to use and opens quickly
Large and durable design can help protect you from the rain as well as from an unwanted dog

PetSafe SprayShield Animal Deterrent with Clip

I carry it for peace of mind when I am on walks with my kids and dogs in areas with loose or stray dogs
Easy to use and compact size, fits great in the stroller organizer

Vacuums & Items To Reduce Dog Hair

If you didn’t mind dog hair before, after having your baby, you might find that it drives you nuts. That was me. Here’s a selection of tools and vacuums that help tremendously to keep your home dog hair-free and lower your stress levels.

Cordless Vacuums

Cordless vacuums are perfect for fast cleanups or smaller areas.

Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Vacuum

Powerful and 60 minutes of run time
Dog Meets Baby team favorite. We use it every day for quick cleanups; it handles dog hair great

Shark IZ363HT Anti-Allergen Pet Power Cordless Stick Vacuum

Lightweight with a variety of attachments to hit the toughest spots
Cost-effective alternative to Dyson, powerful with 50 minutes of run time

BISSELL CleanView XR Pet 300w Lightweight Cordless Vacuum

Affordable, easily maneuverable, run time 40 minutes, removable battery (you can purchase extras)
Lightweight, slim, powerful suction, easily transforms from stick to handheld vacuum

Tineco iFLOOR 3 Breeze Complete Wet Dry Vacuum

Vacuum and mop all in one is perfect for spilled milk or baby-led weaning
The best feature: a storage dock that runs the self-cleaning cycle

Robot Vacuums

Robot vacuums are a fantastic solution for busy parents. Set them to clean automatically and come home to floors free of dog hair and crumbs. Here are some of our top picks.

eufy 11S Max RoboVac

A personal favorite (we have 2), quiet and thin
Affordable, capable of running for 100 minutes

Shark AV2501S AI Ultra Robot Vacuum

Powerful suction with 120 minutes of run time, true HEPA filtration
The best feature: self-emptying, and the robot will return to the dock, recharge, and pick up where it left off

eufy L60 Robot Vacuum

It tackles hair and fur hair without any issues and has a hair cutter that slices through hair that gets wrapped around the roller brush
Emptying-out feature, incredible room mapping (AI), laser navigation, and very strong suction

iRobot Roomba i7+ (7550) Robot Vacuum

Powerful suction - think deep cleaning of rugs, picks up all hair
The best feature: it empties itself for up to 60 days and steers clear of objects

Hand Vacuums

Hand vacuums are excellent for cars, couches, countertops, under-the-highchair areas, and quick cleanups. Check out our favorite models.

eufy by Anker HomeVac H11 Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

A personal favorite and popular amongst our community
Lightweight and compact with good suction

BLACK+DECKER dustbuster furbuster AdvancedClean+ Cordless Pet Handheld Vacuum

High-powered with boost mode to grab the stubbornest of debris
Washable filters make it easy to clean

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Cordless Hand Vacuum

Triple filtration levels help collect and hold debris
Durable with a powerful suction, it can grab most pet hair

Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus

Powerful suction, long battery life with an easy-to-clean filtration
Self-cleaning pet brush roll loosens up dirt and extracts fur from furniture without flinging the dirt elsewhere

Brushes

The type of brush you will use depends on your dog’s hair type. Regular brushing can significantly reduce the amount of hair around your home.

KONG Zoom Groom Dog Brush

It picks up so much hair! Easy to use during a bath and on dry hair
Dogs tolerate it really well because the plastic nubs give a great massage

FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool

Furminator has saved my sanity over and over again, effective, great for long double-coated dogs to get that pesky undercoat
Durable, comes in 3 sizes, different versions for short and long hair

Swihuak Self Cleaning Slicker Brush

Durable and lightweight
Great for longer hair and non shedding dogs

oneisall Dog Hair Vacuum

Great value for money, parents love that they can brush dogs inside with no mess
It is quiet with great suction, portable, gets many “wish I had bought it sooner” reviews

Cleaning Floors, Furniture and Cars

Standard hand vacuums might not always do the trick when it comes to removing stubborn pet hair from furniture and cars. For deeper cleaning, we recommend the following tools:

Chom Chom Roller

Reusable, it works great on anything cloth and gets most of the hair off quickly
It is almost fun to use, so satisfying to see how much hair it collects, and easy to empty

Uproot Clean Fur-Nado Survival Kit

The Pro Pet Fur and the Mini are a personal favorite for dog hair in cars
It takes some time and a bit of effort, but it does remove the pesky embedded hair

FURemover Original Indoor Broom

It effectively cleans up pet hair and dirt from floors without leaving any debris in its rubber bristles
The handle is extendable, works on a variety of surfaces, great for pet hair and spills

Lilly Brush Forever Furless Pet Hair Remover Brush

Designed for long-haired or fluffy pets
One of the best tools for pet hair removal from furniture, blankets, clothing, and other surfaces

Stain Removers

If you have young children, stains on clothes, carpets, rugs, and furniture are unavoidable. Finding a stain remover that actually works can be challenging. Here are some of our favorites that WORK. All four products are Dog Meets Baby Team favorites.
Pro tip: Miss Mouth’s and Puracy - get the refills.

BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner

It effectively removes stains, spills, and dirt from carpets, upholstery, and car seats
Great value for money, it is lightweight and easy to use

FOLEX Instant Carpet Spot Remover

Reasonably priced, works quickly and effectively without much effort
It works like a magic eraser, even on old, stubborn stains

Puracy

Eco-friendly, and it does safely remove clothing stains, even the old ones
My favorite brand for household products that are safe for children and dogs
15% OFF: When you sign up for the newsletter
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Miss Mouth's Messy Eater Stain Treater Spray

As a baby/dog parent, you will want to add it to your stain remover arsenal
Powerful and fast working, I love it for organic and art project stains

Baby Gates

Gates are key when baby-proofing your house before your baby becomes mobile. You can create dog and baby zones using gates and keep the tempting baby items away. You can separate your dog’s resources that your dog might be protective of or keep your dog safe from your grabby and unpredictable baby.

Long Gates

Long gates are a personal favorite due to their versatility. They can adapt to different areas around your home, making them ideal for wide openings or as room dividers.

Regalo 192" Super Wide Adjustable Baby Gate

Dog Meets Baby Team favorite for great price and versatility to create different spaces
Sturdy, ideal for big open spaces you need blocked off

COMOMY 198" Baby Gate Extra Wide

Many ways to set up, auto-close, dual-direction opening, one-hand operation
Worth the money considering all the many uses, features, and durability

Toddleroo by North States 151"  3 in 1 Superyard

A personal favorite, I have owned & used the wooden version for 7+ years
Many panels for different configurations, assembly is a breeze

WOMHOM 120” Retractable Baby Gate

Easy installation, extra long and wall mounted, compact design
Great for open spaces you need blocked off but not all the time

Playpens

Playpens are excellent for creating baby-only zones and travel. They work particularly well in smaller spaces and large open spaces. I like them for dogs who struggle with being separated by a gate, as they often have an easier time with a baby confined in a playpen.

dearlomum Baby Playpen

Easy to set up, lightweight, the mesh is strong, and the suction cups keep it from sliding around
The padding on the rails is soft, and the included mat is cushioned; it comes in 2 sizes

Uanlauo Large Play Pen for Babies and Toddlers

We like it for dogs who might destroy a mesh playpen or chew on a wooden playpen
Sturdy, it folds up compactly and stays in place with a non-slip mat and safety lock; customized shape

Comfy Cub Wooden Playpen & Baby Gate

Aesthetically pleasing, made from natural pine wood, smooth edges and solidly built yet light
Adaptable in shape; wall mounting brackets are included if you want to secure it to the wall

Regalo My Play Deluxe Extra Large Portable Play Yard

Indoor/Outdoor use, there is a version with a canopy
Portable with a simple fold-and-go design makes this perfect for the home and traveling

Medium Gates

They are the perfect solution for awkward spaces that are too large for short gates but too small for long ones. They ensure safety without compromising on functionality.

COMOMY 80" Extra Wide Baby Gate

Features useful for parents: dual direction opening, auto-close, and one-handed operation
The 360-degree adjustable hinges allow for a multitude of configurations

Regalo 76" Super Wide Configurable Baby Gate

One-hand use, sturdy, and easy to install
Configurable and flexible to fit in those odd places around the home

Summer Infant 60" Decorative Walk-Thru Baby Gate

Decorative and modern design, sturdy materials, and wide opening
The sturdiness of metal and the looks of wood, one-handed operation

Summer Infant 71" Metal Expansion Extra Wide

Extra wide opening, auto-locks, one-handed operation, and swings in both directions
Very sturdy and aesthetically pleasing

Short Gates

These gates are ideal for standard doorways and staircases. As parents, we often have our hands full, so we recommend models that can be easily operated with one hand.

Regalo Easy Step 38.5" Walk Thru Baby Gate

The most popular of all the gates (we have it too!) as it fits most doorways, good value for money
Easy-to-use latch makes it a practical solution for high-traffic areas

Toddleroo by North States 47.85" Baby Gate for Stairs

One-handed use, you can choose the direction it swings in, no bottom bar to trip over
Great for stairs and other high-traffic areas, durable steel construction

Regalo Easy Step 36" Extra Tall Walk Thru Baby Gate

Great for tall dogs, it fits most doorways with a one-handed operation
Good value for money, sturdy, built to last, swings wide, durable gloss paint

Cumbor 51.5" Baby Gate

Made of heavy-duty steel, it has a double safety lock and auto-close feature
Great for blocking stairs, includes Y pressure mounts for rounded banisters

Retractable and Freestanding Gates

A retractable gate is best suited for places that are only accessed sometimes or where a permanent gate is unnecessary or would be problematic to install. I had one at the kitchen entrance and used it when I needed the dogs to stay out of the kitchen. 

A freestanding gate is suitable for dogs who will not try to push it open. They are effective for temporarily blocking off areas without permanent installation.

KISKIZ 42" Extra Tall 56" Wide Retractable Gate

Little kids can’t throw things over or put their arms and legs through it; it comes in 5 sizes (length)
Great for agile, large and XL dogs; easy to install, and great for indoor or outdoor use

Cumbor 56" Retractable Baby Gate

Great for low-traffic spaces indoors or outdoors, good value for the price
It comes in 2 sizes (length), one-hand operation, easy to install for anyone with basic handyman skills

Spirich 120" Extra Wide Freestanding Dog Gate

Stylish design, perfect for smaller dogs or dogs who won’t test the boundary
This gate is awesome for creating a dog-only zone with several ways to use it

PetMaker 72" 4-Panel Indoor Foldable Dog Fence

Affordable, easy to open and fold away by yourself for quick block-offs
Lightweight, great for smaller dogs or dogs who don't test gate sturdiness

Puzzle Toys & Food Dispensers

Puzzle toys, chews, and snuffle mats are a great way to keep your dog occupied while you nurse, during naps, when you are recovering after childbirth, when it’s too hot/cold outside, or when your dog is watching 'Baby TV' (a simple technique to help your dog get acclimated to baby’s milestones).

Puzzle Toys

Fill these toys with your dog's favorite kibble or treats, add peanut butter, canned pumpkin, yogurt, or wet dog food, and freeze the filled toy for more of a challenge. 

Soda Pup Honey Pot

Good for power chewers, durable & sturdy, easy to clean, dishwasher safe
A personal favorite, I use it for my dogs (45lbs & 60 lbs)
10% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY
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West Paw Toppl

Dog Meets Baby team #1 puzzle toy, well made, good for moderate chewers, use with or without plug
Easy to clean & dishwasher safe, comes in 3 sizes
10% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY
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Kong Classic Stuffable
Dog Toy

Variety of sizes and for all kind of chewers
You can’t go wrong with a kong, we love it for its versatility and sturdiness

Omega Paws
Tricky Treat Ball

Particularly great for herding dogs, and playful dogs, comes in 3 sizes
Fill it with treats/kibble and as it gets rolled it dispenses food

Lick Mats

Spread peanut butter, yogurt, wet dog food, or a mix of wet and dry foods on these mats. Serve it at room temperature or frozen. Lick mats are great for all dogs, including flat-nosed and small dogs. Many dog parents use lickmats during grooming sessions, when trimming nails, or to keep the dogs occupied. The lickmats shown below are dishwasher safe.

Soda Pup eMat

SodaPup always creates new designs, the eMats are stylish and functional
Excellent quality, it has suction cups to keep the mat in place
10% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY
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MooonGem Dog Lick Pad

A personal favorite, strong suction cups to keep it from moving
Great value for money, well-made and durable

The Slowdown Bowl

2-in-1 - can be used as a slow feeder and a lick mat, well- formed but not rigid
It stays in place with its suction which is easy to pull off and stick down, comes in 3 sizes

Hyper Pet Lick Mat

If you want a lick mat without suction cups, this is a good starter lick mat (it is slide-resistant)
Affordable, good quality, freezer safe, comes in 2 sizes

Snuffle Mats

Snuffle mats are like treasure hunts for your dog. Hide treats within the soft folds of the mat and watch as your dog sniffs them out. This activity entertains and taps into your dog’s natural foraging instincts. We've tested several and have our top picks ready for you. The snuffle mats shown below are machine washable.

Pet Snuffle Mat for Dogs

My favorite travel snuffle mat, a good starter mat to see if your dog likes it
Dual design allows for different levels of challenge

Femont Silicone Snuffle Mat

Easy to clean silicone design is soft to your dog’s nose, yet durable
Can be used for both wet and dry food

Paw 5 Store
Snuffle Mat

Durable organic material, the "blades of grass" are very thick and soft
Frequently voted best snuffle mat 

Luvbestaken Snuffle Mat

4 different features on a non-slip mat
Rolls up in a nice little roll with the velcro strap

Electronic Food Dispensers

They are perfect for alone-time training, teaching your dog to move away, or making your dog comfortable with being separated from you. They can really tire your dog out. 

PETGEEK Automatic Dog Treat Dispenser

A personal favorite for tiring my young dog out without my help
Affordable, battery operated or connect it via the micro USB cable

Petcube Bites 2 Lite

Another personal favorite for tiring my dog out, before delivering a treat we ask our dog for a sit or down (2-way audio)
Great for alone time training, plug into a power outlet

PetSafe Teach and Treat Remote Reward Trainer

Perfect for Place, and Stay training, battery-operated
A personal favorite for greetings to address jumping or barking or being comfortable behind a gate

Furbo 360° Dog Camera

2-way audio and 360-degree view (the quality of the video is fantastic) with a barking sensor
A subscription service for alerts like Dog Activity Alert, CO/Smoke Alarm Alert, and more

Subscription Boxes for Dog Toys & Treats

BarkBox Super Chewer offers a monthly subscription box that includes two bags of healthy treats and two tough toys for super chewers, perfect for dogs who play harder.

Mind Game of the Month is a family-owned company started by parents who were looking for ways to keep their dog occupied when their baby was born. Each product is chosen with one goal in mind—to occupy and tire the dog out. Bi-monthly subscription boxes for senior dogs and dogs with allergies are available.

Real Dog Box is much more than customizable chew and treat subscription boxes. The founders believe strongly believe food is medicine. Affordable wellness membership has many benefits but unlimited access to Certified Canine Nutritionists and a monthly 1:1 nutrition consult alone are such a great deal.

Bark Box Super Chewer

The best customer service - will do everything to satisfy their customers!
Different subscription options to suit your family's needs 
50% OFF first box with 6 or 12 month subscription
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Mind Game of the Month

The kind of family business you want to support, very caring and passionate business owners
$1 goes to shelters for every box
20% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY20
Buy Now

Real Dog Box

San Diego based company specializing in high quality chews, treats, food toppers, and meatballs! Boxes are customizable if you pet has allergies
Very reasonably priced wellness membership with unlimited access to certified canine nutritionists is huge perk
Free bag of treats: AUTO APPLIED
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Car Safety

Car safety is essential not just for your baby but also for your dog. Dogs can become dangerous projectiles in an accident. Keeping your dog secure protects everyone in the car by avoiding the risks associated with having a loose dog and baby, either during a crash or while seated next to each other in the back row.

Dog Harness

These harnesses are crash-tested to ensure that they can keep your dog safely restrained during travel.
Pro-tip: Proper fit is KEY and you may need to test more than one harness to find the perfect one for your dog or order a custom-made harness. They are built differently than regular walking harnesses.

EzyDog Drive™ Dog Car Harness

Fits dogs 15 to 65+ lbs
Well made and is easy to put on once it is initially set up
Durable, high-quality material with a variety of sizes that can fit your dog comfortably yet snugly for the best protection
10% OFF: dogmeetsbaby
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Big Dog Seat Belt Company

Fits dogs 30+ lbs
Each seatbelt is handmade and customized to fit your dog uniquely
Family-owned company, fast and friendly service
$10 OFF: DOGMEETSBABY
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Sleepypod Clickit Sport Plus

Fits dogs 18 to 90 lbs
A+ for safety, durable and very sturdy, quite stiff - not a comfortable daily use harness
A bit of a learning curve to master getting the dog situated in the car

Kurgo Enhanced Strength Tru-Fit Smart Dog Harness

Fits dogs up to 75 lbs
Affordable, sturdy, great attention to detail, transitions well to a walking harness
5 different areas that can be adjusted so it allows for a custom fit

Kennels

Kennels are a safe way to travel for larger dogs, keeping them securely contained. These kennels have undergone crash tests to meet safety standards, ensuring they will hold up in the event of an accident.
Pro tip: Some companies test their products independently, using the same or more enhanced testing protocols than the CPS www.centerforpetsafety.org uses.

Diggs Enventur Travel Kennel

Inflatable, easy to clean, and store away when you are not using it, it comes in 3 sizes
A personal favorite - cozy inside and very sturdy, our dog likes it & she calms down instantly

Cabela's GunDog Intermediate Dog Kennel

Cost-effective, all tie-downs are included in the price
Heavy duty but not too heavy, can be used as a day crate

Gunner Kennel

High quality, durable, and a variety of sizes (4), lifetime warranty
It has a unique double-wall feature, and the website makes it easy to find the right kennel for your dog
FREE SHIPPING: DOGMEETSBABY
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Lucky Duck Kennels

Lifetime warranty, high quality & durable, available in 2 sizes (medium & large)
The door can be switched for either direction opening, and it has an easy one-handed latch to open

Carriers

Carriers are a safe choice for smaller dogs during car rides and air travel. These carriers have been crash-tested and offer the highest security for your pet on the go.

Diggs Passenger Carrier

For dogs up to 18 lbs
Works for most airline companies, detachable cross-body strap, D-ring clip for keys, collar tether clip, and 3 pockets
Trolley sleeve, you can attach a Diggs Pee Pad to the included built-in plush bed

Sherpa Forma Frame

For dogs up to 35 lbs
Great value for money, durable yet comfortable, and soft design
Airline-approved carriers (up to 16lbs) and Guaranteed On Board program for peace of mind

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

For dogs up to 15 lbs
Versatile design as a bed, carrier and car seat
Easy to clean as it has a water-repellent liner and removable, machine-washable bedding
Sleepypod Air
For dogs up to 18 lbs
Roomy design, lightweight yet sturdy, folds flat for storage
Airline-approved, a trolley sleeve secures it onto rolling luggage; zippered pockets for treats, toys, etc.

To find more products to add to your registry, check out the Dog Meets Baby Registry Amazon Storefront

Amazon Storefront

Services to Consider

The first year with a baby is filled with many magical moments but can also be so exhausting. Outsourcing can significantly relieve stress and reduce dog mom guilt. Investing in services like local dog walking, doggie daycare, house cleaning, and laundry—or enlisting help from friends and family—is invaluable during this busy time.

SniffSpot

SniffSpot offers local, safe, and private dog park rentals. This service is ideal for families with little children and dogs; not having to worry about your toddler running off or navigating dog interactions while also watching the kids is priceless. It has many options: dog water parks, indoor spaces, dog agility parks, and private hiking trails.

$5 off first booking: dogmeetsbaby
Download A Free Pet First Aid App
Find emergency pet care facilities with the ‘animal hospital locator’
Learn what emergency supplies to have
Watch videos with step-by-step instructions for common first-aid and emergency situations
Meal Delivery Services

A lifesaver when you have a newborn. You can still eat well, spend little time preparing and cooking, and don’t need to worry about not having an ingredient to make a meal. There is a meal plan for everyone. I have tested many over the years. My advice - choose one that matches your preferences and budget, order meals for a week or two, and see how you like it.  If you don’t, order a new one until you find something that works for your family. 

Discount codes available!

View Discount Codes
Dog Food Delivery

It is easy to forget to buy your dog’s food when you are sleep-deprived. 
Popular options are Amazon Subscribe & Save or Chewy Autoship. 
If you prefer custom plans and freshly made food, we like Nom Nom and Sundays for Dogs for high-quality food and treat options delivered right to your home—the perfect solution for busy new parents.

Discount codes available!

View Discount Codes
Poop Pick Up

When you are in your 3rd trimester or recovering from childbirth, or a busy parent of a little human, easy tasks like poop scooping might seem impossible to do. It is convenient, affordable, and just one less thing to be concerned about.

Doggie Daycare

If you have a young, high-energy social dog who loves to play with other dogs and never seems to have enough, a local doggie daycare might be exactly what you need. Encourage family and friends to contribute by purchasing gift cards to your chosen doggie daycare.

Dog Walkers

Consider asking family and friends to help walk your dog or hire a local professional dog walker. Many parents find this service to be a lifesaver. Ideally, find a dog walker before your baby arrives to give your dog time to acclimate to a new routine.

Something for Parents

The first year with a baby can be incredibly challenging, no doubt about it. Making time for self-care and finding support tailored for new parents can be so helpful. Here's a selection of services and resources designed to support you mentally and physically.

Expecting and Empowered

This app offers comprehensive support for pregnancy and postpartum, helping you and your partner prepare mentally and physically before the baby arrives and recover afterward. Explore workouts, wellness tips, and more to stay empowered.

@expectingandempowered
We love it for variety - there are running, strength/weights, yoga, and pilates-based options
Our favorite - is the prenatal and postnatal strength training so you can work out safely during each trimester and once the baby is born with the on-demand option
There is a C-section recovery and strength program and a C-section box to purchase
15% OFF yearly subscription: DMB15
Buy Now
Birthsmarter

Birthsmarter childbirth education, lactation, and newborn care classes, as well as support groups, are available on demand, on Zoom, and in Person in NYC and SLC.

@birthsmarter
Online and on-demand birth and parenting classes
In-person classes and privates (select locations)
Support groups that give you community
10% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY
Buy Now
Mommy Labor Nurse

Choose from three different labor courses designed to prepare you thoroughly for childbirth. They also have free resources, workshops, and a podcast with helpful tips and insights.

@mommy.labornurse
Three different labor courses - the epidural, the natural, and the C-section series, to help you feel prepared
Free mini birth class, baby registry guide, and pregnancy week-by-week
The Mommy Labor Nurse Podcast
10% OFF: DOGMEETSBABY
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Massage

What person doesn’t love a good massage?! These are perfect for before and after the baby arrives.

Therapy

Seeing the right therapist who provides a safe space to discuss changes and challenges can be helpful.

Laundry or Cleaning Services

A perfect gift for first-time parents. Take the stress off of cleaning when you are exhausted so you can focus more on your baby and less on the chores.