- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Moving is almost always stressful, and not just for humans—it’s tough on dogs, too. The process of packing, the change in routine, and all the unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds in a new home can be overwhelming.
If you’re moving with a dog, helping them adjust to their new environment and feel safe throughout the process is crucial. The best way to do that is with the right prep and planning.
Below, our experts give tips to help you and your dog transition smoothly to your new home.
How to Prepare Your Dog For a Move
Getting ready to move with your dog takes planning. How much time you need depends on things like how far you’re moving, how well your dog deals with stress, and if they need to learn any new things.
Here are some tips to help your dog get ready for a move:
- Work on your dog’s training: Training beforehand can help reduce stress, says Allie Bender, (CPDT-KA), a dog trainer and founder of Pet Harmony, LLC. This might include crate training or getting your dog used to riding in a car. If you’re moving to a place without a fenced-in yard, your dog might need to learn how to potty on a leash.
- Get your dog used to the moving supplies: Heather Gillihan (CPDT-KA), the director of learning and development at Zoom Room, says you should let your dog see and explore packing boxes before moving. She suggests tossing treats around the boxes to make your dog feel happy and safe around them.
- Update your dog’s ID: Make sure your dog’s ID tags have your new contact information. If your dog doesn’t have a microchip yet, you might want to get one.
- Check local laws: Look into the rules for pets where you’re moving. Some places have specific leash laws, licensing requirements, or rules about certain dog breeds. For example, your new landlord may allow a Rottweiler, but some areas or companies don’t.
- Find a new vet: Don’t wait until your dog gets sick before finding a new vet. Check if your dog needs new vaccines or medications for things like ticks or heartworm in the new area.
- Visit your new home early: Bender and Gillihan recommend taking your dog to the new space before moving day. This will let them explore the new space and feel more comfortable when you finally move in.
9 Moving & Packing Tips on the Big Day
Keep your dog safe and calm during a move with the following tips.
1. Stick to your dog’s routine
Try to keep your dog’s usual schedule for walks, feeding, and playtime. This helps them feel more secure during the move.
You can also set up a quiet spot where your dog can relax while you pack.
2. Pack your dog’s stuff last
Bender suggests packing your dog’s bed, blanket, and toys last, so you can unpack them first. This way, your dog has their favorite things nearby to help them feel comfortable.
3. Feed your dog a smaller meal
To prevent an upset stomach during the move, feed your dog a little less than usual.
But don’t let their stomach be completely empty, as that can also cause nausea.
4. Help your dog burn off their energy
Exercise is a great way to lower stress. Before the move, give your dog plenty of playtime.
On the road, plan for exercise breaks at dog parks or rest stops. You can even look for dog-friendly restaurants along the way.
5. Use calming tools
Different methods will work for different dogs. You can try calming treats, calming beds, pheromone collars, diffuser sprays, a weighted blanket, a Thundershirt, or even music therapy.
6. Ask your vet about anti-anxiety medicine
Bender says many pet parents moving cross-country or internationally work with their vet for anti-anxiety medications.
Check with your vet to see if your dog might benefit from a short-term prescription.
7. Dog-proof your new place
If you have a yard with a fence, check it carefully for any places your dog could escape. Use pet gates inside and outside to keep your dog safe.
8. Explore your new area slowly
Let your dog get used to the new neighborhood a bit at a time. Too many new sights and sounds at once can be scary. Remember, dogs can hear more than humans, and things like pools or basketball courts might be new to them.
Meet your neighbors so your dog knows who belongs in the area and who is a stranger.
9. Hire a pet sitter
During the hustle and bustle of the move, you might want to give your dog a break at doggy daycare or a pet sitter’s home. This way, they can relax while you unpack and settle in.
Plus, you won’t have to worry about your dog escaping the front door.
How to Transport a Dog During a Move
Whether you’re traveling by car, plane, or train, keeping your dog safe and comfy is essential. Here are some tips:
- Traveling by car: Generally, crates are the safest way to transport your dog by car. Bender says the best craters for the car are plastic airline crates. If that’s impossible, Gillihan says dogs should be safely strapped in with a dog seatbelt and travel harness. Make sure they always have ventilation, take regular breaks, and keep comfortable items nearby.
- Traveling by plane: Every airline has different rules for pets, so check what your airline requires. You may need to show some vet paperwork. Gillihan suggests booking a direct flight if possible, even if it means driving to a further airport—it can be better for your dog.
- Traveling by train: Amtrak allows small pets (up to 20 pounds with their carrier) on board. Be sure to check the rules before you go.
What Moving Supplies Do You Need?
For your dog’s safety, it’s wise to travel with the following:
- Travel crate or carrier
- Car harness, seatbelt, or car seat
- Pet first aid kit
- Travel bowls
- Collar with updated ID tags
- Microchip number and a current photo
- Medical records
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How to Help Your Dog Settle After a Move
Moving can be stressful for dogs. Here are some tips to help your dog feel comfortable in their new home.
Create a safe room
Set up a special area just for your dog to help them feel secure in the new home. Gillihan says this space should have familiar things like their bed, favorite toys, and something that smells like you or the old home.
Let your dog explore the rest of the house when they’re ready. Don’t rush them, and reward them when they’re brave!
Keep things familiar
You might be excited to redecorate, but try not to make big changes in the first few weeks. Bender says keeping some things the same can help your dog feel more comfortable. Try to set up your new home in a familiar way, and Gillihan says to keep your dog’s feeding and walking schedule the same.
Gillihan also suggests not changing your dog’s food or gear right after moving. Your dog is already going through a lot, so it’s not the best time to introduce new food or a new harness.
We know you’re eager to decorate your new space, but try to avoid making major changes for the first few weeks.
Watch for signs of stress
Moving can be overwhelming for dogs, and they show how they feel through their behavior and body language. Look out for signs of stress, anxiety, or sickness like:
- Not eating as much
- Shaking or shivering
- Losing more fur than usual
- Tense muscles or stiff posture
- Drooling a lot
- Yawning too much
- Destructive behavior
- Repeating actions like licking, pacing, or chasing their tail
- Guarding food or toys
- Hiding
- Howling or whining more than normal
- Having accidents in the house
If you notice these behaviors for more than a few days, check with your vet to make sure your dog is okay.
Takeaway
While dogs adapt fairly easily to new situations, there is a lot to take in. It will likely take weeks or months before your dog recognizes their new environment as their home. Stay calm, reinforce positive behavior, and try to spend more time interacting with your pet.
