Moving to a new home involves several carefully planned out events. You have to clean, hire moving help, pay for various expenses…and we haven’t even started on your pet!
Pet owners know how stressful it is to move a dog. Most dogs are noisy at the best of times, but their energy and curiosity can make moves even more exhausting. Likewise, you might be worried about the impact moving has on your dog’s health. Are you wondering how to help your dog adjust to a new apartment or house?
Even the pandemic hasn’t halted high moving rates. Keep reading to learn how to help dogs adjust to their new home as naturally as possible.
Transitioning from a new area to the next is rough with a pet. We established AllPawsExpress to speed things along for pets and owners.
Is Moving Stressful for Dogs?
Most dogs aren’t comfortable with moving into a new environment. Routine is essential for dogs of all shapes and sizes, especially for establishing healthy habits.
When you move to a brand new condo or house, you do two things to a dog’s mind. The first act is exposing them to a wealth of new sights, scents, and sounds. The second act is shaking up their routine and exposing them to uncertainty. While moving can be pretty exciting for a dog, it can also be rather stressful.
Certain types of dogs are more prone to stress than others. Younger dogs and dogs who regularly travel with their owners tend to fare better. Older dogs, dogs with health issues, and dogs who live in very stable environments will have a more challenging time transitioning.
What are the First Signs of Stress in a Dog?
Your dog is honest at the best of times! You’ll know your dog is stressed when they start displaying unusual behaviors that fall outside of their daily expression.
For example, dogs that usually don’t shred furniture may start chewing on your sofa during packing. Likewise, normally quiet dogs might start whining or barking more often.
Do Dogs Get Sad When You Move Houses?
Moving is a bittersweet time for all parties. Dogs may find themselves confused and frustrated in a new environment, but they’ll soon adapt!
How Long Does it Take for Your Dog to Adjust to a New Home?
As touched on above, the age and lifestyle of your dog will be a major factor in how fast they adjust. The majority of dogs will adjust to a new home in a matter of days.
Older dogs and dogs with health issues may take a few weeks to adjust. Your dog needs time to learn the meaning behind new scents, get comfortable in their new sleeping area, and learn different walking routes. As long as you show your dog plenty of attention and patience, they’ll come around!
Which smells will stress out your dog? Check out our dog guide to find out!
You don’t have to transition your pet all by yourself. Contact us today for an estimate!
How Do You Settle Your Dog Into a New Home?
Your goal is to give your dog positive associations with your new home. If you arrive at your new place grouchy or disinterested, your dog will pick up the same emotions.
Here are a handful of ways to help your dog to associate the new home with positivity:
Bring Plenty of Toys
Dogs love to chew and snuggle their toys. Bring their old toys with a few new ones in the mix.
The old toys will give them familiar comfort, while the new toys will give them some excitement!
Give Them Some Exercise
Dogs may have extra anxious energy after the move. Give them a few extra walks as you get settled so they can learn new scents and get rid of excess energy.
Socialize Them Carefully
Does your new move have children or cats? Your dog needs a little time to get used to new presences, so don’t expose them to too much.
Give your dog time to sniff newcomers and socialize little by little. Save the big celebrations or camping trips for later. This step is especially necessary during a puppy’s formative years.
Separate Feeding Areas
If your dog will be living with other dogs, start out simple. Separate sleeping areas and feeding areas until they’re used to each other.
Pushing your dog into a brand new situation with new faces will have them irritable and trying to figure out a new routine.
Review Cues and Commands
Your dog still wants that cozy routine. Let your pet know they can rely on you by refreshing your basic cues and commands.
Sit, stay, and fetch are good places to start. Practice these commands in different situations to make sure your dog is attentive to you.