Docker Compose Watch Mode (2025 GA)

Docker Compose Watch enables automatic hot reload during local development by synchronizing file changes instantly without manual container restarts.

Three Watch Actions

1. sync - Hot Reload

For frameworks with hot reload (React, Next.js, Node.js, Flask). Copies changed files directly into running container.

2. rebuild - Compilation

For compiled languages (Go, Rust, Java) or dependency changes. Rebuilds image and recreates container when files change.

3. sync+restart - Config Changes

For configuration files requiring restart. Syncs files and restarts container.

Core Procedure