New Home, No Problem: A Dog Parent’s Guide to Moving

Hello and welcome back to the Unleashed Blog! I’m Marsha and this month, we’ll be talking about how to help your dog adjust when moving to a new home! It’s a big change—not just for you, but for your dog too. At Off Leash MKE, we understand how important it is to make your pup feel safe and secure during such transitions. Here’s a deeper dive into how you can help your dog adjust and settle in with minimal stress.

1. Keep a Routine

Dogs are creatures of habit, and their daily routines provide a sense of stability. Try to keep feeding, walking, and bedtime schedules consistent during the move. Even if the day is hectic, sticking to the usual times for meals or a walk can reassure your dog that not everything has changed. This sense of predictability can help them feel grounded amidst the chaos of moving boxes and new surroundings.

2. Set Up Their Space First

Before you start unpacking the rest of the house, focus on setting up a designated area for your dog. This space should include their bed, favorite toys, water and food bowls, and anything else they associate with comfort. Choose a quiet spot where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Having their "safe zone" ready immediately gives them a sense of ownership in the new space and helps ease anxiety.

3. Introduce New Spaces Gradually

If your new home is much larger or has multiple levels, let your dog explore one area at a time. Start with the room where their designated space is located, then gradually open up new areas for them to investigate. This controlled introduction prevents them from feeling overwhelmed by too much newness all at once. Walk with them, use a calm tone, and allow them to sniff and explore at their own pace.

4. Maintain Comforting Scents

Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell, and familiar scents can help them feel more secure. Bring along unwashed blankets, beds, or even your own clothing that smells like the old home. These items act as a comforting reminder of the life they know. You can also avoid washing these items for a little while after moving to help maintain the familiarity during the adjustment period.

5. Stick to Positive Reinforcement

Moving can be stressful, and your dog may feel uncertain or hesitant about their new surroundings. Reward calm behavior with treats, praise, or playtime to create positive associations with the new environment. If they explore a new room or settle in their bed without showing signs of stress, let them know they’re doing a great job! This builds confidence and helps them feel at ease.

6. Give Them Extra Attention

While it’s tempting to dive headfirst into unpacking, don’t forget to carve out quality time for your dog. They’ll need reassurance that you’re still their constant amidst the changes. Schedule extra play sessions, take them for long walks in familiar or quiet areas, or just spend time sitting with them in their new space. These little gestures show your dog that, while the scenery may have changed, your bond remains the same.

7. Introduce Them to The Neighborhood

If you’ve moved to a new neighborhood, your dog may feel uneasy about unfamiliar scents, sights, and sounds. Help them adjust by taking slow walks around the block to let them sniff and explore at their own pace. Seek out dog-friendly parks or trails where they can meet other dogs or enjoy positive experiences in their new environment. For extra socialization, consider a local doggy daycare or hiring a dog walker like our team at Off Leash MKE to provide structure and companionship while you settle in.

8. Watch for Signs of Stress

Even with your best efforts, moving can still be stressful for some dogs. Keep an eye out for signs like excessive panting, whining, pacing, or changes in appetite. If your dog seems particularly anxious, it may help to consult with a vet or a certified trainer for additional tips and guidance tailored to your dog’s needs.

9. Update Their ID Tag and Microchip Information

One of the most important steps during a move is updating your dog’s ID tag and microchip with your new address and contact information. In the event that they get out while adjusting to the new area, this can be crucial for a safe return home. Be sure to include your current phone number on their tag, and if your dog is microchipped, reach out to the microchip provider to update their database with your new information. This small step provides peace of mind, knowing that if your dog gets lost, anyone who finds them will have the correct information to reunite you both quickly.

10. Consider Calming Aids for Extra Support

For some dogs, a move can bring heightened anxiety, and calming aids offer extra comfort to help them feel more at ease in their new surroundings. A ThunderShirt or anxiety wrap, for instance, applies gentle, constant pressure, which has a calming effect on many dogs during stressful times. Dog-safe essential oils, like lavender or chamomile, can also be soothing; a few drops in a diffuser or a light mist in the air creates a relaxing environment, though it’s always best to consult your vet, as some oils can be harmful to pets. Calming music or white noise can help block out unfamiliar sounds and create a peaceful atmosphere, with many streaming services and apps offering pet-specific playlists. Finally, pheromone sprays or diffusers like Adaptil release a synthetic version of comforting pheromones that mother dogs produce for their puppies. Calming aids won’t solve every anxious behavior, but they can be a valuable addition to your transition strategy.

11. Be Patient

Every dog adjusts at their own pace, and it’s important to be patient and understanding as they settle in. Celebrate small milestones, like when they explore a new area, greet a new neighbor, or finally curl up in their bed at the end of a long day. Remember, your support and encouragement are the biggest factors in helping your pup feel at home.

Final Thoughts:

Moving is a big adventure, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming for your dog. By keeping their needs in mind and providing plenty of reassurance, you can help them adapt and thrive in their new environment. If you’re ever in need of extra help—whether it’s dog walking, pet care advice, or adventures—Off Leash MKE is here for you. Let’s make your dog’s next chapter their best one yet!