diff --git a/src/lerobot/scripts/lerobot_record.py b/src/lerobot/scripts/lerobot_record.py
index 4233f0bc2..532a8c602 100644
--- a/src/lerobot/scripts/lerobot_record.py
+++ b/src/lerobot/scripts/lerobot_record.py
@@ -453,9 +453,11 @@ def record(
                 encoder_queue_maxsize=cfg.dataset.encoder_queue_maxsize,
             )
 
-        robot.connect()
+        # Connect the teleoperator before the robot so the robot isn't left idle (and possibly
+        # tripping a firmware watchdog) during teleop init. Matches lerobot_teleoperate.py.
         if teleop is not None:
             teleop.connect()
+        robot.connect()
 
         listener, events = init_keyboard_listener()