Moving house with a dog: Tips for a smooth move and happy dog

What to do before moving with dogs

Moving with a dog can be chaotic and stressful. But luckily, proper planning can make things a tad easier. 

☐ Keep your dog’s information updated

Update your contact information associated with your dog's microchip with your new address and number and the ID tags on their collar to include your new home address and contact details. 

☐ Familiarise your dog with the moving supplies

Help your dog get familiar with the items by encouraging them to explore and interact with them as you pack your belongings. But never leave your dog unsupervised near them, as they could accidentally ingest something harmful or get tangled up in packing materials.

☐ Pack a bag for your dog

The bag should include their food, treats, toys, leash, collar, water bowl, and any medications they may need. This bag should be easily accessible to you during the move so you can conveniently attend to your dog’s needs.

☐ Prepare for the drive

If you’re travelling by car with your dog, consider getting a well-fitted car harness and travel crate to keep your dog secure during the ride. If you’re moving cross-country, book a dog-friendly accommodation in advance.

☐ Bring them to the vet

Preparing for when your dog gets car sick or experiences severe anxiety while travelling in the car is important. Veterinarians can suggest ways to make the journey less stressful for your dog, like recommending medications to alleviate your dog’s anxiety or motion sickness.

Tips to know during the move

Moving day can be confusing and upsetting for dogs when they see strangers taking away your things. Here are some tips to lessen their anxiety when moving to a new house with a dog.

☐ Place your dog in a secure and comfortable space

You can choose a crate or a closed room where your dog can relax and feel safe. This will prevent your dog from getting agitated or overwhelmed by the noise and commotion on moving day.

☐ Stick to your dog’s routine

Keep feeding and walking schedules consistent; this can help your dog feel more relaxed and comfortable amid all the changes. Try to provide a sense of normalcy to your dog by following their typical schedule.

☐ Reduce their food intake to prevent motion sickness

Lessen it by about a third on moving day and the night before. Also, give them small servings of easily digestible food when you arrive at your new home and gradually increase their serving sizes to their normal diet.

☐ Keep your dog with you in the car

Travel with your dog to make them feel more at ease. Don’t forget to take regular breaks during the trip, so your dog can go potty and drink up. Make sure to plan your route ahead of time and find rest stops or parks where your dog can relieve themself. 

☐ Use pheromone products

When dogs are stressed or anxious, their body produces different types of pheromones that can trigger a calming effect in other dogs. Pet products, such as collars, diffusers, and sprays, can provide synthetic versions of these chemicals that can be used to reduce stress and anxiety in dogs.

How to help your dog adjust to a new home

You’ve finally relocated! But the adjustment to your dog’s new home anxiety only starts here. It will take time for your dog to feel fully comfortable in their new space, so below are a few tips on how to get a dog used to a new home.

☐ Explore the new home and neighbourhood

Give them the freedom to sniff around and get familiar with their new surroundings, but also keep a watchful eye on them to ensure their safety.

☐ Maintain a consistent routine

Keep their daily schedule as close to what it was before. Consistency helps your dog feel more secure and can reduce anxiety and stress. You may need to adjust the routine to fit the new environment but try to keep the overall structure as similar as possible. 

☐ Put out familiar items

Setting up your dog’s bed, toys, and other belongings in the new home can provide a sense of comfort and security in the new environment. Choose a quiet and comfortable spot for your dog's bed, away from any potential disturbances or high-traffic areas.