How to reset the Dock to its default apps and settings on a Mac

One Terminal command puts the Dock back as it came: Apple's apps, default size, bottom of the screen. What it resets, what it keeps, and how to back up first.

Guide · Updated 22 October 2026

How do I reset the Dock?

Run this in Terminal:

defaults delete com.apple.dock && killall Dock

The Dock restarts with Apple's default set of apps, default size and magnification, at the bottom of the screen.

What does resetting the Dock change?

  • Every icon you added or removed goes back to the default set.
  • Size, magnification, position and auto hide return to their defaults.
  • Hidden settings made in Terminal, such as show only open apps or the bounce, are cleared.
  • Your apps, files and folders are not touched. Only their icons in the Dock change.

Can I back up my Dock first?

Yes. This saves the current Dock to a file on your desktop:

defaults export com.apple.dock ~/Desktop/dock-backup.plist

To restore it later, run defaults import com.apple.dock ~/Desktop/dock-backup.plist && killall Dock.

Is there a reset button in System Settings?

No. Desktop & Dock can change each setting, but there is no single button to restore them all.

If the Dock is not broken but frozen, restart it instead. To build it back up: add apps to the Dock.

Questions

How do I reset my Mac Dock to default?

Run defaults delete com.apple.dock, then killall Dock, in Terminal.

Does resetting the Dock delete apps?

No. Only the Dock's icons and settings change.

How do I back up my Dock layout?

Run defaults export com.apple.dock and a file name, and import it later to restore.

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