What You Should Know Before Moving With a Dog

Moving with a dog can provide additional challenges when organizing movers, boxing up everything you have, and getting your kids registered for new schools. However, your dog, like the rest of your other family members, is probably a little nervous about the upcoming changes.

Fortunately, by adhering to a few professional moving pieces of advice for dogs, you may allay their fears and simplify the relocation process for yourself. We're going to cover all you need to understand about moving with dogs, whether you have an extra-large puppy, a senior dog, a pint-sized pet, or a new dog.

Recognizing the Anxiousness in Your Dog

Dogs are inherently territorial, much like many other animals. If you own a dog, you've undoubtedly seen symptoms of this constantly: your dog may become protective of their favorite toys at the dog playground, prefer to sleep on a single dog bed, and become on alert when strangers approach.

Your dog will know that significant changes in normal routine are about to occur when you relocate to a new house. Their usual routine is disturbed by the stacks of boxes, the unexpected change in plans, and the commotion of the movers, so it seems to sense that they would be suspicious. To help your dog's anxiety there are a couple of things you can do to help him.

Desensitize Your Dog to Moving Supplies

Start desensitizing your dog to the sight and sound of the boxes as well as other moving supplies (such as packing tape) a few weeks before your move.

Gather a few moving boxes and just set them in a corner or up against a wall. Allow your dog to investigate them at their pace and don't create a lot of fuss over them. If your canine friend is particularly anxious about these novel objects, you may establish a positive relationship by rewarding her with a tasty treat if she explores the cardboard boxes more independently.

Enjoy Walks with Your Dog in The New Neighborhood

This stage is unfeasible if you're moving far from your existing residence. However, if you're relocating to a place that you can easily go to every day, like across the city or even right across the street, it might be beneficial to acclimate your dog to the neighborhood in advance.

Allow your dog to explore and soak in every detail, sound, and scent of their new environment by taking regular walks with them. Because they've previously had an opportunity to take in all the "pee-mail" (and left their own) in the area, they will feel more at ease and accustomed when they go for their usual walks in this setting.

Maintain Your Dog's Mental Interest

Another great way to assist your dog cope with stress is to provide them with mental activity and enrichment. This will help them practice acceptable behavior instead of tearing up the sofa cushions out of boredom or anxiety.

While you load up additional boxes, give your dog their favorite food and puzzles or interactive toys.

Your dog will become mentally exhausted from working for their food, and it's also a simple method to de-stress as it keeps them occupied and helps them focus on something constructive.

Other non-food-related activities can also contribute to mental enrichment. If your dog enjoys digging, take them to a lake or beach where they may dig till they drop. Take your dog on a "sniffing trip" where they can walk or run as they choose (as long as it's safe), pausing to "smell the roses" for as long as they like.

Not only can you take a breath of fresh air and unwind outside, but the information they are receiving is incredibly engaging and enlightening for their brain. It's important to spend quality time with your dog during a difficult move to help both of you stay calm and your dog remains confident and at ease.

The Actual Moving Day

You should plan for how you'll take care of your dog on a moving day because it might be a hectic day. It is ideal to have them out of the house if at all feasible. If not, your anxious dog can be underfoot all the time, whining and confused about all the commotion.

Here are a few tips to consider:

• Request that a trusted friend or a family member keep your dog at their residence.
• Place your dog in a kennel.
• When the moving crew is at your house, put your dog in its crate.
• On the moving day, confine your dog to a single room of the house.

Make sure your dog has access to lots of water, food, and toys all day long to help reduce their anxiety. Invest in a pet microchip for your furry friend and make sure it wears an ID tag with up-to-date contact details in case it becomes particularly hesitant.

Taking Your Dog to the New Home

Organizing pet transportation might be among the most challenging aspects of relocating with a dog. Keeping your dog close to you as you move into a new home is beneficial for their psychological well-being because many dogs experience separation anxiety throughout this period.

You may be on a road journey to your new residence if the truck belongs to a moving firm. If so, pack your dog in its kennel and search for lodging options that allow pets while traveling.

When you embark on a road trip with your dog, try to stop frequently so they can get some exercise. Don't forget to pack dog feeders and a dog bed for your fur baby. You should also make sure your pet has enough ventilation in case you ever have to leave him or her in the car. Don't overfeed your dog, especially if they are known to have sensitive stomachs!

Getting your dog settled in

Keep in mind that your dog will require some time to acclimate to a new setting. Returning as soon as you can to your normal routine—which should include eating, sleeping, playing, and so on—will help to ease the change. Provide for your dog's requirements by putting out their cherished toys and the best beds for your dog's comfort.

Provide your pet plenty of time to get acquainted with their new surroundings once you've pet-proofed your house by closely monitoring any potential escape routes. To avoid overwhelming your dog, walk him on a leash and stay on the same paths for a few weeks.

Exploring the New House with Positivity

Give your dog some time to investigate at their speed when you initially bring them into your new house. Don't push your dog to explore a new place if they seem hesitant; instead, let them some time to adjust.

Your dog will be more successful if they are wearing a leash, which will allow you to keep him out of places that aren't permitted to go and create a pleasant bond that will boost your dog's confidence as they investigate their new home alongside you. Be careful to praise them for any excellent conduct at your new house while maintaining a calm and joyful tone of voice and demeanor.

Aid Your Dog in Overcoming Any Transitional Fears

Many canines may often show signs of nervousness following a move. If your dog seems a little nervous about all the changes, please be patient with them. It's okay to console your dog if they appear hesitant. It's okay to provide them cuddles, praise, and stroking when they ask for it since they seek you for clues about whether or not to be concerned. The most important thing to keep in mind is to soothe, not indulge. Your dog may pick up on your nervousness and may even start to exhibit it themselves if you are feeling uneasy or worried when reassuring them.