How to Move House with Your Dog: A Stress-Free Guide

Moving to a new home is a big adventure — but when you have a dog, it can also be a little more complicated. Dogs are creatures of habit, and uprooting them from their familiar surroundings can be stressful for both of you. However, with the right approach, you can make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of moving house with your dog:

1. Prepare for Moving House with Your Dog Early

Start preparing your dog for the move well before the actual moving day. If your dog is used to a consistent routine, try to keep things as familiar as possible in the weeks leading up to the move, as well as the weeks after the move.

• Maintain Consistency: Try to stick to your dog’s usual schedule for walks, meals, and playtime. Creating a predictable environment is a great support for them.
• Introduce New Scents Gradually: If possible, bring home some items from your new home a few days in advance (like blankets or toys) so your dog can get used to the new smells. 
• Keep Familiar Scents: Also let them keep old toys, smelly blankets and beds that they are used to and know as their own.
• Desensitize to Packing: Dogs often get stressed when they see boxes and packing materials. Gradually introduce your dog to the packing process, and ensure they still have their own space to relax in while you pack. 
• Pack Them Last: Make sure you pack their things last minute and that they leave with them. (This is particularly important for rescue dogs who may have previously moved between homes and kennels a lot. They’ll recognise their things being packed as a precursor to them being taken away again.) 

2. Stay Safe when Moving House with Your Dog

On moving day, there will be a lot of activity, and your dog might feel anxious or overwhelmed. It’s best to create a calm, safe space for them.

• Create a Quiet Room: On the day of the move, designate a quiet room or area in your old home where your dog can stay. This will keep them away from the chaos of packing, loading, and unloading. Ensure they have their bed, water, and favorite toys to comfort them. Check on them regularly to reassure them.
• Consider Boarding or a Dog Sitter: If your dog is particularly anxious or if you’re moving a long distance, it might be helpful to arrange for a dog sitter or boarding for the day. This way, your dog won’t be stressed by all the moving commotion. However make sure it is either with someone already familiar to them or that you have pre arranged practice runs before the day so they are used to the new area and people.
• Take Care of Travel Needs: If you’re traveling a long distance to your new home, make sure your dog is comfortable in the car. Bring familiar items, like their bed or blanket, and plan for breaks if you’re traveling for a while. 

3. Settle Your Dog into the New House

Once you’ve arrived at your new home, your dog will need time to adjust to the new surroundings. Here’s how to make the transition easier for them:

• Introduce Them to the New Space Slowly: Start by showing your dog one room at a time. Let them explore gradually and at their own pace. Take your time, and avoid overwhelming them with too much too soon. Let them explore at their own pace.
• Keep Their Routine Consistent: Consistency will help them feel safe and secure in the new environment so stick to the previous routine they are used to. 
• Set Up a Familiar Space: Just like in your old home, create a designated spot in the new house where your dog can retreat to when they need rest or relaxation. Place their bed, toys, and water bowl in this area. It’s tempting to get them new things for the new home, but initially, use all their old items that smell like them and will give them comfort. 
• Walk Your Dog Around the Neighborhood: Take your dog for a walk around the new neighborhood to help them get familiar with the area. Let them sniff around and explore so they can start to feel comfortable in their new surroundings. Regardless of your dogs’ off lead training, use a leash to begin with just in case they get spooked, anxious or lost in a new area.

4. Monitor Your Dog’s Behaviour

It’s normal for dogs to experience some level of anxiety during a move. Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and be mindful of signs of stress, such as excessive barking, hiding, or changes in appetite. If your dog seems particularly unsettled, try to offer extra reassurance with gentle interaction and calmness. Reintroduce games, snuffle mats and puzzle toys to help them decompress and feel more relaxed in the new space.

5. Provide Extra Attention and Reassurance

In the first few days (or even weeks) after moving, your dog may need extra attention to help them settle in. Spend time with them, engage in activities they enjoy, and provide plenty of positive reinforcement for calm behavior.

• Play and Exercise: Regular exercise will help release pent-up energy and reduce stress. Take your dog on walks or play interactive games in the yard to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. 
• Separation Anxiety: Keep in mind that some separation anxiety may appear as they get used to being left in a new place. They may also find new noises outside difficult to handle, so prepare for extra training within the home too. 

6. Gradual Introduction to New People and Pets

If you have new neighbors, other pets, or unfamiliar situations in the new home, be patient with your dog’s adjustment. Introduce them to new people or pets slowly and on their terms. Let your dog decide how fast they want to interact with others, and give them space if needed. Make sure they have their own space and that everyone in the home leaves them alone to relax in that space.

7. Update Your Dogs Details before Moving House with Your Dog

There is a higher risk of dogs going missing during the move or in the new home. Make sure you have pre ordered updated tags for their collars or harnesses as well as updating the details on their microchips and registering them at a new veterinary practice as soon as possible. 

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Final Thoughts Moving can be a challenging experience for both you and your dog, but with careful planning and patience, you can help make the process much smoother. By keeping routines consistent, creating a calm environment, and offering reassurance, you can help your dog adjust to their new home and feel safe and comfortable in their new space. And remember — with time, your dog will settle in and begin to love their new home just as much as their old one!

Have you moved with your dog before? Share your tips and experiences in the comments!