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Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet challenging time for everyone, and that includes your dog! While we may feel the thrill of a fresh start, dogs often find change unsettling. From the upheaval of packing to settling into a new space, your furry friend might experience confusion and anxiety throughout the process. But don’t worry—with the right preparation, you can help your dog adjust smoothly to their new home.
This guide will walk you through how to make the moving process as stress-free as possible for your dog, covering everything from preparation before the move to settling them into their new surroundings.
Moving doesn’t begin on the day of the big haul—it starts long before, with the packing, planning, and changes to routine. Here are some tips to help prepare your dog before you even leave your old home:
Keep Routine Consistent: Dogs thrive on routine, and moving can disrupt their usual schedules. As much as possible, stick to regular feeding, walk times, and play sessions. This consistency provides your dog with a sense of security amidst the chaos.
Introduce Moving Boxes Slowly: Seeing boxes everywhere can be a red flag for dogs. Bring moving boxes into your home gradually and let your dog sniff them out. This will help reduce the anxiety that comes with a sudden change in their environment.
Set Up a “Safe Space”: As you pack up your house, your dog might get nervous seeing familiar items disappear. Set aside a room with your dog’s favourite bed, toys, and items that won’t be packed until the very last minute. This can serve as their “safe space” where they feel secure.
Familiarise Them with the New Home and Area: If possible, take your dog for a visit to the new home before the move. Let them explore the space, sniff around, and get used to the new surroundings. If possible, also walk them in the new neighbourhood as it will create more familiarity. This can make the transition much smoother on the actual moving day.
Moving day can be chaotic with movers, boxes, and people coming in and out. Here’s how to keep your dog calm and safe:
Arrange for a Pet Sitter: One of the best ways to keep your dog stress-free is by having a friend, family member, or pet sitter take care of them for the day. This will help keep your dog away from the hustle and bustle and in a more relaxed environment.
Create a “Dog-Free” Zone: If having a pet sitter isn’t an option, set up a quiet space for your dog, away from the commotion. Make sure this area has familiar items and a room with a closed door or baby gate can help keep them calm and safe.
Stick to Routine: Even on moving day, try to keep your dog’s feeding and walk times the same. Familiar routines are incredibly reassuring for dogs during periods of change.
Keep Their Essentials Handy: Pack your dog’s essentials—food, bowls, lead, toys, and bedding—in an easily accessible bag or box. This way, you can quickly set up their space at the new home without rummaging through boxes.
Once you’ve made it to the new home, the transition isn’t over yet! Dogs need time and patience to get comfortable in their new surroundings.
Unpack Familiar Items First: As soon as you arrive, set up a cosy area with your dog’s familiar belongings. Surrounding them with familiar scents and items can help them feel more at ease in the new environment.
Explore the New Home Together: Don’t rush things—let your dog explore their new home at their own pace. Walk them around the different rooms and spaces so they can sniff out their new territory. Be sure to supervise them initially, especially if there are areas that might not be dog-proofed yet.
Stick to Their Routine: Keeping the same routine in the new home is key to helping your dog adjust. This includes maintaining their regular feeding times, walks, and play sessions. Familiar routines provide a sense of stability and normalcy during the transition.
Introduce the Neighbourhood Gradually: Take your dog for regular walks around the new neighbourhood to help them get used to their new surroundings. Explore new routes, and gradually let them meet the neighbours and other dogs. This can help them feel more comfortable and settled in their new environment.
The time it takes for a dog to adjust to a new home varies depending on the dog’s personality, age, and previous experiences. Some dogs may feel at home within a few days, while others may take several weeks or even months to fully settle in.
Generally, it can take about 3 weeks for a dog to feel fully comfortable in a new home. During this adjustment period, be patient, provide plenty of reassurance, and offer treats and praise for calm, positive behaviour.
It’s important to be on the lookout for signs that your dog is feeling stressed or anxious during and after the move. Common signs of stress in dogs include:
Excessive Panting or Pacing: If your dog is panting heavily or pacing around the new home, this could be a sign they’re feeling anxious.
Changes in Appetite: A dog that refuses to eat or has a sudden increase in appetite may be experiencing stress.
Increased Barking or Whining: Dogs often vocalize their stress through excessive barking or whining, especially in unfamiliar environments.
Accidents in the House: Even house-trained dogs may have accidents in the new home due to stress or confusion.
Destructive Behaviour: Chewing on furniture, scratching doors, or digging at carpets can be signs that your dog is struggling with the transition.
If your dog exhibits these signs, it’s important to be patient and offer them comfort. Try to maintain a calm environment, and consider providing them with calming toys or natural calming aids like lavender sprays or anxiety wraps. If the stress persists, consult your vet for further advice.
Use Calming Products: Consider using calming products like pheromone diffusers or calming collars to help ease your dog’s anxiety during the move and in the new home.
Provide Plenty of Attention: Spend extra time bonding with your dog after the move. Play with them, go for walks, and provide plenty of reassurance to help them feel secure.
Reward Positive Behaviour: Praise and reward your dog with treats and affection when they display calm and positive behaviour in the new home. This helps reinforce their confidence and sense of security.
Moving home with a dog requires extra planning and patience, but with the right approach, your dog will settle into their new surroundings in no time. From keeping their routine consistent to providing a cosy, familiar space, these steps will help make the transition as smooth as possible. By recognizing the signs of stress and offering reassurance, you’ll help your dog feel safe, secure, and ready to enjoy their new home.
Remember, every dog is different, and some may need more time and care than others. But with love, patience, and a bit of preparation, your dog will soon be wagging their tail in excitement in their new space.
For more advice and guidance, check out trusted UK resources like The Kennel Club, PDSA and Blue Cross, which offer helpful tips for dog owners during major life changes like moving.
