How to Make Moving Easier for Dogs
I have moved a lot in the past decade — and always with my dogs. I’ve actually lost count just how many times I have moved, but it’s more than 15 at this point. Whether it’s moving to a new apartment down the block or a whole new city, I’ve done it, and I’ve done it with my dogs!
A happy and stress-free Ginsburg after moving a few years ago!
Moving homes can be an exciting but stressful time for anyone, and especially for our dogs. At least we can explain what’s going on to other humans, but dogs have to watch their homes taken apart without understanding what’s happening! Imagine how scary that could be for a dog!
As pet owners, it’s essential to prioritize the well-being and comfort of our dogs during such a huge transition. No matter how far you’re moving — 5 miles or 5000 — there are proactive steps you can take to make moving easier for your dog. Through preparation, it’s possible to alleviate anxiety our dogs might feel, while also setting the groundwork for a smoother transition for your pup and the entire family.
Understand Your Dog’s Needs
Before even discussing the logistics of moving, I need to emphasize just how crucial it is to know your dog. Dogs generally thrive on routine and familiarity, so a sudden change in environment and the general craziness of moving can trigger stress and anxiety in even very stable dogs.
If your dog is prone to stress and anxiety or has difficulty with strangers, keep that in mind when making preparations for moving. Signs of distress during the moving process might include excessive barking, panting, pacing, a loss of appetite, withdrawal, or snapping, especially if you hire movers who are strangers to your dog.
By knowing your own dog’s particular stressors and triggers, as well as potential challenges for all dogs, you can better prepare for the transition of moving. Every dog is unique, so the moving process really does need to reflect your own dog’s personality and quirks.
Preparing Your Dog for the Move
No matter how stable and chill your dog is, they will benefit from some preparations for the move. Here’s a few things you can do to make moving easier for dogs:
Maintain Routine: Stick to your dog’s regular routine leading up to your move, at least as much as possible. Dogs are creatures of habit and thrive on routine, so maintaining consistency in feeding times, walks, play sessions, and training can provide your dog with a sense of stability. There is a lot of chaos involved in packing and moving, so maintaining your dog’s routine as much as you can is very important!
Talk with a Trainer: Having a session with a trainer prior to moving is a great idea, especially if your dog is prone to anxiety, reactivity, or stress. Skilled trainers will be able to observe your dog and provide personalized suggestions to make moving easier on your dog.
Pack Gradually: Instead of packing the entire place at once, gradually introduce moving boxes and packing materials into the home over the course of a few weeks. Allow your dog to investigate the boxes and materials and become accustomed to them. The less change leading up to the move, the better, so habituating your dog to moving materials can help your dog stay relaxed when it comes time to move.
Maintain Comfort Items: When packing, make sure you pack your dog’s belongings like toys, bedding, and food, in a separate box that is clearly labeled and easily accessible. Familiar scents and items can help your dog relax during a moving transition. By keeping your dog’s items clearly labeled and all together, you can quickly unpack these essentials to help your dog settle into your new home. And remember: pack your dog’s comfort items last to keep them as relaxed as possible during the move itself.
Minimizing Stress on Moving Day
Of course, the most stressful part of any move is moving day itself. Fortunately, there are a few options for moving day that help make moving easier on dogs.
Create a Safe Space: On moving day, designate a quiet and secure area where your dog can stay away from the chaos of packing, removing furniture, and loading the truck. Ideally, this space should be a separate room free from movers, clutter, and with access to food, water, and comfort items. If you don’t have a separate room you can use, crate your dog securely instead.
Consider Boarding or Pet Sitting: The hustle and bustle of moving day might just be overwhelming for your dog at all. If your dog is prone to stress and anxiety, or if you just think moving will go more smoothly with them out of the way, consider boarding your dog for the day or arranging for them to stay with a trusted friend, family member, or pet sitter.
Update Your Dog’s Identification: Moving is chaotic and with all the coming and going required of loading a moving truck, there are lots of opportunities for your dog to slip out of the house. Make sure that your dog’s collar and tag are up to date with your current contact information, and ensure that they are wearing their collar and tag on moving day. In the event that your dog slips out and becomes lost during the move, updated contact information will increase the chances of a safe return home for your pup.
Settling into Your New Home
Establish Familiarity: Have I emphasized enough the importance of familiar comfort objects to make moving easier on your dog? Arrange your dog’s bed, food, water, and favorite toys first to create a sense of familiarity for your pup. In unfamiliar surroundings, these comfort items can help ease anxiety and make the transition to a new home smoother for your dog.
Explore the Neighborhood: Taking your dog on sniffy walks around the new neighborhood to introduce them to their surroundings. Dogs process information and relieve stress through sniffing, so sniffy walks provide them with mental stimulation and help them adjust to the sights, sounds, and smells of their new home.
Stick to Routine: It might be tempting to dive into setting up your new home, but make sure to maintain your dog’s routine as much as you can. Regular mealtimes, walks, and playtime with you will help your dog feel more secure among the change and settled in their new environment.
Moving homes with a dog doesn’t have to be an overwhelming and stressful experience. If you prioritize your dog’s comfort and well-being throughout the moving process, you can minimize stress and make moving easier on your dog. These practical tips are easy to implement and really will make the moving process easier on your dog and you! Remember, patience, love, and consistency are the key to helping your dog through a move!
