Articles

Walking Your Dog With a Stroller: How to Practice Safely

How to teach your dog to walk calmly next to a stroller before the baby arrives.

1. Let your dog explore the stroller at home with treats.
2. Walk the empty stroller indoors, rewarding your dog next to it.
3. Move to quiet sidewalks.
4. Add a second adult when you first walk with the baby.

Use a hands-free leash only when the walking is reliable, and never tie the leash to the stroller.

Calm Nursery: Dog Meets Baby

The trimester-by-trimester plan to prepare your dog for your baby, plus a homecoming plan. Reward-based, 6 printable tools.

See the plan →

Not sure yet? Take the free 2-minute quiz

Quick answers

How do I walk my dog with a stroller?

Practice with the empty stroller first, reward your dog for walking beside it, and start in quiet places.

Should I attach the leash to the stroller?

No. If the dog pulls or bolts, the stroller can tip. Hold the leash or use a secure hands-free belt.

My dog pulls on the leash. What should I do?

Work on loose-leash walking before the baby arrives, and use a front-clip harness.

Educational content from the CalmNursery team. Not veterinary or behavioral advice for your specific dog. If your dog has bitten, or behavior changed suddenly, see your veterinarian and a certified professional.