Moving home is a big change – not just for you, but for your dog, too. With new sights, smells and routines to adjust to, it’s easy for pets to feel unsettled during the process. However, with a bit of forward planning, your dog will feel safe and secure before, during and after the move.
In this guide, we’ve put together some expert tips to make moving home with a dog as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Before the move
Before the move, it’s important to prepare your dog gradually so they feel comfortable and secure throughout the changes.
Get your dog used to packing activity
Dogs can sometimes find the sight and sound of packing stressful, especially if they’ve had previous experience of it and associate it with big changes. To help ease this, you can start introducing your dog to the packing process gradually. Begin by packing some boxes in a room your dog doesn’t spend much time in, so they’re not overwhelmed. You should let your dog observe calmly from a distance, and you can provide treats and praise so they associate packing with positive experiences.
You should avoid packing their favourite items or bedding until closer to moving day, so their comfort zone remains familiar for as long as possible. This can help to reduce anxiety and give them a sense of security amid the changes.
Stick to their routine
Dogs are most comfortable with routine, so maintaining the usual schedule as much as possible will help them to feel safe during the upheaval. Aim to keep to their regular feeding times, walks and play sessions, even after you’ve started packing. These familiar activities will provide a sense of normality for your dog, which can be reassuring when everything else seems to be changing. If your schedule becomes unpredictable, you could consider asking a friend or dog walker to help so your dog’s daily rhythm stays consistent.
Introduce them to travel crates or car travel (if needed)
If your move involves travelling by car or crate, it’s important to familiarise your dog with these arrangements well in advance, if they’re not already used to travelling. You should start by allowing your dog to explore the travel crate at their own pace. Try leaving the door open and placing treats or your dog’s favourite toys inside to create a positive association.
For car travel, you can take short practice trips to help your dog get comfortable with the motion and sounds of the journey. You can then gradually increase the length of these trips to build their confidence.
Update microchip details
Just before you move, you’ll need to make sure your dog’s microchip information is up to date with your new address and contact details. This is crucial in case your dog gets lost during the move or after settling into the new home. You should also update their ID tag on collar, so it has the new address, and make sure the phone number is also correct.
On moving day
On moving day, it’s essential your dog is kept calm and safe. Taking a few simple steps can help ensure they stay relaxed amid the hustle and bustle.
Keep your dog in a quiet, secure space
Moving day can be overwhelming for dogs, as there will often be lots of noise, strangers and unfamiliar activity. To help your dog stay calm, you should set up a quiet, secure area away from the chaos. This could be a spare room or a cosy corner with their bed, toys and water; however, it should be in a room that you can shut off from the front door. Keeping them confined in a familiar, safe space helps to reduce the risk of them getting stressed or accidentally escaping through open doors.
Arrange pet care if possible
If you can, it may be easier for everyone if you arrange for someone else to look after your dog on moving day. A trusted friend, family member or professional pet sitter can give your dog the attention and calm environment they need whilst you focus on the move.
Being away from the noise and disruption will help reduce your dog’s stress and prevent any accidental escapes during the moving process. Once everything is settled at the new house, you can bring them in when it’s quieter and more secure.
Pack a dog essentials bag
Just like you might pack an essentials bag for yourself, you should also pack a separate bag with everything your dog might need during the move and the first couple of days at your new home. Having these essentials easily accessible means you won’t have to search through boxes, and it helps maintain some normality for your dog during a time of change.
Essentials should include food, bowls, treats, favourite toys, a lead, waste bags and any medication they need. Don’t forget their bed or blanket – familiar scents can provide comfort in a new environment.
Settling into your new home
Once the move is complete, helping your dog adjust to their new surroundings is key to a smooth transition and long-term comfort.
Set up their space first
When you arrive at your new home, try to set up your dog’s space as one of your first tasks. Look for a quiet spot and arrange their bed, toys, food and water bowls to help them feel settled. Having familiar items with their scent will offer reassurance and make the new surroundings feel more like home.
If possible, try to keep their area consistent with the setup from your previous home, as this can also ease the transition. Once their space is ready, give them time to explore it at their own pace without pressure.
Explore the new area together
You can help your dog adjust and feel more secure in their new environment by taking time to explore the local area. You can start with short, quiet walks, sticking close to home – give your dog plenty of time to sniff and take in the new scents at their own pace. You can then explore further, visiting local parks and establishing new walking routes, to help build their confidence and reduce anxiety. Walking together will also reinforce your bond and reassure your dog that, despite the change in setting, you’re still a constant.
Keep things consistent
Consistency is reassuring for dogs, especially after a big change like moving house. Try to maintain the same routines you had before, including feeding times, walk schedules and play sessions. Avoid introducing too many new things at once – if you can let your dog settle in gradually before making any further changes, they’ll adapt to the new environment more comfortably.
Watch for signs of stress or anxiety
It’s normal for dogs to feel unsettled after a move, but it’s important to watch for signs of ongoing stress or anxiety. These can include changes in appetite, excessive barking, pacing, hiding or destructive behaviour. Some dogs may also become more clingy or have accidents indoors, even if they’re usually well-trained.
Be patient, give your dog time to adjust, and make sure to give plenty of reassurance and positive reinforcement. If their anxiety doesn’t improve or it worsens, you should speak to your vet. They might be able to recommend further support or suggest behavioural strategies to help your dog feel more at ease.
Moving home?
Moving with a dog can be a challenge, but having the right support makes all the difference. At Britannia, we’ve helped families – and their pets – move home smoothly for decades. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, our experienced team can take the stress out of your move so you can focus on settling in.
Contact us today to find out how we can help make your move easier, or find your nearest branch to speak to your local team.
