My Dog Jumped on My Pregnant Belly - What Steps to Take Now

Some people think a family isn’t complete until you have a dog. Having your children grow up alongside a dog is the best feeling in the world but no one really considers what to do when you’re pregnant. Dogs are loving companions but if you’re thinking my dog jumped on my pregnant belly & can it cause any harm, keep reading.

In general, a normal size dog stepping or jumping on a pregnant belly is no big concern. However, you still might want to have a quick check with your OB/GYN.

Table: Dog Jumped On Stomach While Pregnant & Action Plans

Topic	Details
Dog Jumping on Belly	Consult OB/GYN if pain or blood loss. Size and strength matter.
Early Pregnancy Concerns	Uterus protected by pubic bone. Baby tiny and safe.
Later Pregnancy Concerns	Baby grows, bump more prominent. Protect from excitable dogs.
Risks of Dog Pressure	Miscarriage, premature labor, blood loss, placental abruption.
Dog Size and Weight	Small dogs might hurt less, but all sizes can harm. Seek medical advice.
Cuddling With Dog	Avoid direct pressure on bump. Position matters.
Dog’s Behavioral Change	Possible feelings of displacement. Keep routines and give attention.
Introduction to New Baby	Use positive reinforcement. Allow sniffing to familiarize scent.
Bonding	Bond with dog and baby simultaneously. Use toys and treats.
Conclusion and Advice	Consult doctor if dog jumps on belly. Obedience classes might help.

My Dog Jumped on My Pregnant Belly – What Now?

“My dog jumped on my pregnant stomach” – if you have suffered a tummy punch from your canine companion whilst pregnant there isn’t any immediate concern. You should consult your OB/GYN if you are hurting or notice blood loss/change in movements. Your unborn baby is protected yet the size of your dog and the strength of the tummy blow come into consideration.

My Dog Jumped On My Stomach While Pregnant & Now it Hurts

Being a dog mom before I had my children opened my life to the unconditional love dogs give their owners. Truth be told we only had Bella for six months before I found out I was pregnant. So having a pup whilst being pregnant was interesting.

Many times Bella wanted to jump up on my lap and cuddle but with a growing belly, it made me nervous. I was torn between being a fur baby mom and growing my first human baby.

If you are ever in a similar situation you will find out fairly quickly that those pretty little paws can hurt! You feel fragile in the first few weeks; it’s a secret that no one knows about. Even though your dog probably knew about your pregnancy before you, they still have needs and can get over excited when they see you or they may feel protective of you and their unborn sibling.

Having your dog jump up or put any pressure on your pregnant belly is not advised although how much damage, if any, could this cause?

Can a Dog Jumping On Stomach Cause Miscarriage?

Chances are low that a dog jumping on your stomach can cause a miscarriage; it depends on the force exerted and the stage of pregnancy.

Having a miscarriage carries devastating heartache and being a mom to two rainbow babies myself I completely understand the fret, worry, and anxiety you feel during your first trimester.

The risk of Miscarriage is known to decrease after 12 weeks of pregnancy meaning many moms begin to relax as they enter their second trimester but if you have an excitable furball at home you may want to continue being cautious.

If you find yourself saying my dog jumped on my pregnant belly or stepped in early pregnancy chances are your baby is unharmed, your uterus is still fairly protected by your pubic bone and your baby is super tiny. As you enter your second trimester your baby is growing, and your bump is starting to pop. It is during this stage and toward the end of your pregnancy, you need to make provisions to protect your bump from four bouncing paws.

Don’t panic if your pooch has bounced off your tummy chances are you and baby are fine but there is a possibility that with extreme force you could miscarry, enter premature labor, suffer blood loss, placental abruption, etc. So better to check out those obedience classes sooner rather than later if you have a bouncing hound.

Dog Stepped on Pregnant Belly, What to Do Now?

Typically no matter the size of the dog you will immediately worry and stress about whether any harm was done. But size does matter in these situations. Consider the following before running to the emergency room:

Size of Dog

My dog Bella is a Shih Tzu so it is safe to say she’s not very big. Weighing in at 7lbs she’s a tiny yet noisy little bug!

If you have a small pup then usually you wouldn’t think twice about them. Compared to a German Shepherd pup whose one leg equates to all four of a Shih Tzus it is clear that they could pack more into their punch.

Weight

As mentioned my pup is now 7lbs so during my pregnancies she was smaller. This did not stop those needle-like claws from hurting my tummy. In fact her overall character turned from a playful fur baby to a protector, she used to guard me against literally everything!

Having bub snuggles with your dog is the best but if they are startled then be cautious about your bump. No matter if you have a dog with needle-like paws or a gentle giant neither dog will hold back if they are excited or protecting you.

Regardless of their size, if a dog stepped on pregnant belly I feel it’s important for you to seek medical advice even if it’s just a check-up to be safe.

can dog stepping on stomach cause miscarriage

Can Cuddles With My Dog Affect My Pregnancy?

Many dog moms worry about how their dogs will be as their bump grows. The general consensus is that cuddling with your pooch is safe but you need to ensure that they don’t put too much pressure on your bump.

As mentioned smaller dogs are lighter whilst bigger breeds have a gentle yet heavy nature. Allowing your dog to snuggle directly on your tummy can cause harm due to their weight pressurizing your bump so it is best if they are given a position where they rest on your legs or next to you.

I learned from experience that even smaller dogs can hurt you. Once my dog jumped on my stomach while pregnant and even though she was less than 5 pounds when startled her jump packed more force than I expected!

What I’m trying to say is that even though the size is a big factor, don’t be naïve to think a smaller dog can’t cause harm. Lucky for me all was well, but it made me more cautious for the rest of my pregnancy.

Dog Stepped on Your Pregnant Belly, When to Seek Medical Attention?

In most cases, a regular-sized dog jumping on a pregnant belly won’t cause any harm. However, if a dog stepped on pregnant belly, and if you still experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention:

Severe pain: If you experience intense pain after your dog has jumped on your pregnant belly, seek medical advice.
Vaginal bleeding: If you notice any vaginal bleeding following the incident, contact your healthcare provider.
Changes in fetal movement: If you notice a decrease or change in your baby’s movement after the jump, consult with your healthcare provider.
Signs of premature labor: If you experience symptoms such as regular contractions, lower back pain, or increased pelvic pressure after your dog has jumped on your belly, contact your healthcare provider.
Leakage of fluid: If you suspect that your water may have broken after the incident, seek medical attention immediately.
Persistent anxiety or worry: If you continue to feel anxious or concerned about your baby’s well-being after your dog has jumped on your pregnant belly, it’s important to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider for reassurance and further evaluation if needed.

Ways to Help Your Pooch Adjust

My family are dog lovers with us all having at least one pooch each. They are at the forefront of our family. As I was the first to become pregnant we all immediately looked for ways to help each of our dogs adjust to the new arrival.

Displacement is real

Feelings of displacement from your dog can create a range of behavior issues. Of course, none of us wish our fur babies to feel displaced yet with a human baby entering the family these feelings can quite quickly become apparent.

To ensure your dog feels as if their place in the family has not changed it is important that you give them as much attention as before, keep to their routine as best you can, and take the introduction to your baby slowly.

Help them accept the new normal

Trying to ensure that your dog is still feeling the love is important yet there are times you are not going to be able to address their needs first.

To help them accept your baby you can use positive reinforcement, giving a treat when your baby cries or makes noises is a great tip! Doing this will signal that cringing isn’t scary but a positive experience for your pooch.

Allowing them time to sniff is also key to a harmonious relationship between your baby and dog. Whilst I was still in the hospital I sent home a wet nappy that I had changed. My husband allowed Bella to sniff and investigate this new smell so when we came home she recognized it.

Bonding with both

As a new mom, you can be sure your attention will be directed toward your baby. But it is important that you take time to bond simultaneously with both your baby and dog. Whether it’s smoothing them during feeding time or having them near during changing times either way you are showing your dog you haven’t forgotten them.

I am not dismissing the fact that at times you may have a poonami explosion so your attention will be solely toward your baby but giving your dog a toy or treat can help keep them busy whilst you clean up.

Training Your Dog for a New Baby

Welcoming a new baby into your family is a big transition for everyone, including your dog. By preparing your dog for this change, you can help create a safe and harmonious environment for both your baby and your furry friend. Here are some tips on how to train your dog for the arrival of your new baby:

Start obedience training early: Teaching your dog basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “off” can help control their behavior around your growing belly and eventually your baby.
Expose your dog to baby sounds and smells: Play recordings of baby noises and introduce items with baby scents, such as baby lotion or a blanket, to help your dog become familiar with the new sounds and smells.
Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries for your dog, such as not allowing them in the baby’s room or on certain furniture where the baby will be.
Practice walking with a stroller: Take your dog on walks while pushing an empty stroller to help them get used to the new routine.
Gradually reduce attention: Slowly decrease the amount of attention you give your dog, so they can adjust to the reduced attention they’ll receive when the baby arrives.

Reward calm behavior: Praise and reward your dog for being calm and gentle around baby items and when listening to baby sounds.

Dog Jumped On Stomach While Pregnant – Key Takeaways

Dogs jumping on pregnant bellies can be concerning but isn’t usually immediately harmful.
Size and weight of the dog matters; larger breeds might cause more harm.
Constant monitoring and caution are essential, especially as pregnancy progresses.
Despite their size, small dogs can also pose a risk due to unexpected jumps.
Bonding between your dog and baby is important for a harmonious household.

Wrapping Up

My dog jumped on my pregnant belly, if you find yourself saying this to anyone the advice I would recommend would be to call for a check-up just to ensure you and baby are ok.

As we have discovered your baby will most likely be unaffected but because of the size, weight, and nature of many dogs, there is always a possibility you and your baby could be hurt.

Generally, dogs do not want to cause us harm, they jump up when they are excited and want attention from us, but they cannot comprehend their own strength so just being pregnant around an excitable dog is not going to change their behavior immediately, opting for obedience classes has been a popular option for many dog moms.

Keep an eye out for any behavioral changes throughout your pregnancy and especially when your little one arrives. I feel extremely lucky that my dog has accepted our new crazy 100 miles per hour life now. Many dogs can show aggression, jealousy, and even depression. If you spot anything untoward, seek out your local dog trainer for advice.

FAQs

Can my dog sense my pregnancy? If so, how do they react to it?

It is believed that dogs may be able to sense pregnancy due to their keen sense of smell and ability to detect hormonal changes in their human companions. Some dogs may become more protective or clingy, while others might display indifference.

Are there any risks to my unborn baby from being around a dog during pregnancy?

Generally, there are no significant risks to your unborn baby from being around a dog during pregnancy. However, pregnant women should take precautions to avoid exposure to parasites, such as Toxoplasma gondii, which can be transmitted through contact with dog feces. Always practice good hygiene, including washing hands after handling your dog or cleaning up after them.

Can I continue to walk my dog during pregnancy?

Yes, walking your dog during pregnancy is generally safe and can provide both you and your dog with exercise and bonding time. However, as your pregnancy progresses, you may need to adjust the intensity and duration of your walks.

How do dogs usually react to a pregnant owner?
Dogs, being keen observers, often sense changes in their owners. Some become more protective or attentive when their owner is pregnant. This is possibly due to the altered body chemistry, behavior, and emotions of the pregnant person. Others might feel anxious or even jealous, leading to behavioral changes.

Is there a safe way to introduce my newborn to my dog?
Absolutely! Introduction should be gradual and positive. Start by letting your dog sniff a baby blanket or piece of clothing before the baby comes home. When you introduce the baby, ensure the dog is calm. Over time, allow closer supervised interactions, ensuring the experience remains positive for both the dog and the baby.

Do dogs get jealous of babies?
Yes, dogs can feel jealousy or displacement when a new baby arrives. It’s essential to prepare your dog for this big change. Dedicate time for your dog, stick to their routine as much as possible, and introduce new baby-related items and sounds gradually before the baby’s arrival.

How can I help my dog adjust to the sound of a crying baby?
A proactive approach works best. Before the baby arrives, play recorded baby sounds at a low volume, gradually increasing the volume over time. Pair the sound with positive experiences like treats or playtime. This helps your dog associate the baby’s cries with positive things, reducing anxiety or fear.

What changes might I notice in my dog’s behavior during my pregnancy?
Your dog might become more protective, attentive, or clingy. They might follow you around more or become more vocal. Some dogs might even display signs of anxiety, such as chewing objects, due to the changes in the household atmosphere.

Is it safe for a dog to sleep in the same bed during pregnancy?
While it’s safe in general for dogs to share a bed with their owners, pregnant individuals might want to reconsider this. As the pregnancy progresses, having a dog in bed might become uncomfortable due to the increased belly size and movement restrictions. Also, there’s a risk of the dog accidentally pressing against the belly.

Can dogs sense pregnancy even before a test confirms it?
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and might detect changes in a person’s body chemistry even before a pregnancy test does. While it’s not scientifically proven, many dog owners report changes in their pet’s behavior during the early stages of pregnancy.

How do I manage a very active dog during my pregnancy?
Managing an active dog while pregnant involves a combination of physical and mental stimulation. Incorporate more playtime, walks, or even consider hiring a dog walker. Toys that stimulate their mind, like puzzle feeders, can also help tire them out. Obedience classes or training sessions can also redirect their energy productively.

Are there any dog breeds that are naturally gentler around babies?
While individual dog temperament matters more than breed, some breeds are often cited as being good with children. These include the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Beagle, and Bulldog. However, it’s essential to remember that any dog, regardless of breed, requires proper introduction and supervision around babies.

My Dog Jumped on My Pregnant Belly – What Steps to Take Now