How to Keep Your Dog Calm When Moving

Moving house is one of the most stressful life events you’ll ever go through, and this is no different for our pets. The chaos, new smells, unfamiliar noises, and a whole new layout to get used to can make your dog feel stressed and anxious. Luckily, there are many things you can try to keep your dog calm during the move. Read on to discover them.

First Things First: You Need the Right Home

You’ll know how important it is that your home is the right fit for your pet as much as it is for yourself. In the perfect home, your dog will thrive and flourish. They need plenty of space to explore and play.

If you’re searching for a new space to live, SpareRoom is well-known for providing thousands of listings on its trusted platform. One of the best things about SpareRoom is that you can filter your search to find your perfect match. So if you need a new home with a garden or a bedroom large enough for you and your pet to share, they’ll connect you with thousands of listings in popular cities.

Expert Tips for Keeping Your Dog Calm When Moving

1. Prepare Your Dog Before the Move

Dogs are just like us. Big moves are scary – maybe even more frightening for them, since they don’t understand what’s going on. At least we humans do. That said, dogs will sense that something’s happening around them, and they’ll understand that a change is coming. We recommend starting to get your dog used to the idea of their new home as soon as possible. You might be able to take them into the house a few times before moving in, or even go for some walks around the outside of it. The scent may help them become familiar with their new home more quickly.

Furthermore, dogs need routine. If you disrupt their daily schedule, this can make them feel anxious. In preparation for the move, make sure you stick to a consistent routine. Feed them, walk them, and play with them all at set times so that the things that make them the most comfortable aren’t suddenly unpredictable.

• Related: Adopting a Dog Internationally – Meet Mimi from Peru!

2. Create a Safe, Quiet Space for Your Dog

The noise and commotion of moving day are stressful for humans, so you can imagine the impact that has on your pets. You can help ease your dog’s anxiety by setting up a quiet, safe place for them to retreat to when things get hectic. Remember to put their bed, toys, and water bowl in there too, so they have everything they need.

We also recommend keeping their favorite comfort items close, whether that’s a blanket or their most well-loved toy. They’ll find comfort in the familiar smell of their own things.

3. Use Calming Products

There are many products on the market that you can use to keep your dog calm during the move, such as stress sprays, music, and even anxiety wraps. Talk with your vet to find the right solution for your pet.

4. Keep Your Dog Busy

It’s not just stress you’ll have to deal with – it’s boredom too. Dogs can get bored quickly when you’re busy with other things to do with the move, which is why it’s important to make time for them – even if it’s just a game of fetch or a new toy.

Remember to let your dog get plenty of exercise. On the big day, we recommend taking your dog for a walk or spending time at a dog park before the movers arrive. This will help them burn off some of their boundless energy that might be causing their anxiety.

5. Slowly Introduce Your Dog to Their New Home

Our pets are curious, and we know you may want to unleash your dog and let them explore the entire house all at once, but the last thing you want to do is overwhelm them. You might find it easier to introduce your dog to each room one at a time.

Not sure where to start? Try the room you know they’ll spend the most time in, like the living room. Place familiar items around the room that may still have their old smells on them – think their water bowl, toys, blankets, or anything else they love. Once they’re comfortable and happy with that, you can move to other rooms.

You may want to let your dog lead the way. Allow them to get to know their new home at their own pace – don’t force them to move onto the next room or explore a particular area if they’re not ready, as this can increase their anxiety.

6. Keep an Eye on Your Dog’s Behavior

After you’ve settled into your new home, you’ll still need to keep a close eye on your dog. Be on the lookout for any signs of stress or anxiety, such as:

• Pacing and being unable to settle
• Being more vocal than usual
• Constant grooming
• Refusing to eat or a loss of normal appetite

This isn’t an exhaustive list, of course. You know your pet better than anyone, and if something doesn’t seem quite right, make sure to give your dog more attention and take steps to help them settle in. If they continue to struggle, contact your veterinarian for advice. All dogs move at their own pace. If your dog takes time to adapt, it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something wrong; it just means they need extra love and care until they get there.

Moving to a new home is one of the most stressful times in anyone’s life, so it’s understandable that your dog might also find it stressful. Luckily, there are a lot of things you can do to prepare for the move and make sure your dog is as comfortable as possible. Just give it time and a little patience, and your dog will soon be thriving in their new home.

Featured image by Eric Ward on Unsplash