Moving to a new home is stressful for anyone, but add in a dog with anxiety, and it’s another ball game! If your furry friend is feeling the pressure of the big move, don’t sweat it; We’ve got you. Here’s how you can help your doggo transition smoothly into their new digs while keeping their tail wagging. Your dog may have many problems and dog anxiety moving to new home may be one of them.
#1. Understand That Moving is a Big Deal for Dogs Too
But before we get into it, let’s acknowledge that moving is a huge deal for your dog. Imagine that one day someone just packed things up and moved you somewhere else, to another place with different smells, new neighbors, and nothing familiar. It’s no wonder your poor pup could be feeling somewhat anxious.
Dogs love predictability, consistency, and routine. Change this dynamic and it’s unsettling for the pooch. But don’t worry. There are plenty of things you can do to help them get through it. Let’s go over some tips and tricks to ensure your dog has a smooth transition.
#2. Retain Some Familiarity in the Midst of Chaos
Everything will be new and different to your dog when moving to the new home. Bring some of your dog’s favorite things from the old house to alleviate their anxiety. It could be their bed, blanket, toy, or food and water bowls that make the new environment seem familiar.
Set up a nook in the new place for your canine companion. Think of it as their little safe haven where they can retreat and hide when it all gets too much for them to handle. Bonus points if it’s in an out-of-the-way spot that’s away from the clamor of unpacking. You might even want to put an unwashed T-shirt of yours in their bed; the scent of you does a lot to comfort them.
#3. Maintain as Stable a Routine as Possible
Dogs, much like humans, are creatures of habit. Routine can work in favor of decreasing anxiety. With all the loading and offloading and moving, routines easily fall out the window. Do your best, to maintain your dog’s usual schedule for feeding times, walk times, and playtime. These routines normalize the environment and make it seem familiar to your dog. Knowing that dinner is ready at 6 p.m. sharp, no matter what, helps your dog feel secure.
#4. Introduce the New Home Gradually
If possible, allow the dog to become familiar with your new home before the busy move-in day. Bring them over a couple of times so that they can explore the new space while it’s still empty. Let them sniff around, check out the nooks and crannies in the yard, and get comfortable.
On moving day, allow your dog to settle into one room first as opposed to overwhelming the poor animal with the whole house. Gradually increase access to other areas of the home as they become more comfortable. In this way, they adjust to the new environment at their own pace.
#5. Keep Calm and Carry On
Remember that your dog is attuned to your emotions. If you’re stressed, anxious, or frazzled, they’re going to pick up on it. So, try to stay calm and relaxed during the move, sure, it’s easier said than done, but your dog will thank you for it.
When you pull up at the new house, act as if this were the best place on earth. Be happy, cheerful, excited. If you treat the move like a grand adventure, your dog will see it that way too.
#6. Help Them Burn Off That Nervous Energy
Exercising is one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety in dogs. Ensure you give Fido their exercise in the days leading up to the move, on the moving day and following, the move. A nice, long walk, a game of fetch, even just a good ol’ game of tug of war really helps them release some of that pent-up nervous energy.
A tired dog is a content dog, and they’re less likely to get anxious if they’ve had the chance to blast off some of that pent-up energy. Exercise releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones which diminish stress and anxiety.
#7. Create Positive Associations with the New Home
You want your dog to think of the new house as their new favorite place. So, make it fun! Break out their favorite toys, dispense treats, and hang out with them in the new space. You could even turn the exploration of a new home into a game. Hide some treats or toys around in the rooms and encourage your dog to find them. Doing this turns the process of getting familiar with a new environment into an enjoyable and positive event.
#8. Be Patient and Give Them Time
The new home might take some getting-used-to, which is perfectly fine. Some dogs can get used to things fast, while some may take weeks before being totally at ease. Always be patient with your pup and let them take their time.
If, after a few weeks, your dog is still anxious or their anxiety seems to increase rather than decrease, it might be useful to call on the pros—either your vet or an experienced dog trainer. They can help you with detailed advice or make recommendations for anxiety-reducing supplements or training techniques.
#9. Remember the Power of Play
Last but not least, don’t forget to harness the power of play! Playtime distracts your dog from the anxiety of a new environment and really helps them feel at home. Take the time to engage in their favorite games, try out some new toys, or teach them a new trick. This approach helps to relax their anxiety, and lets them know this new place is somewhere they can feel safe and happy.
Dog Anxiety Moving To New Home
Wrapping It Up
Moving with an anxious dog can be a bit demanding, but only patience, consistency, and extra TLC will do the trick in getting your furry friend to adjust to the new home in no time. But did you know you don’t have to go through this on your own?
Online training platforms give you expert advice, video guidance, and individualized training plans. On-demand online training portals let you train your dog learn at your own pace, with tips and tricks from certified trainers who’ve seen it all. From teaching your dog relaxation techniques to learning how to associate positive feelings with their new home, these resources are there to help you help your dog.
So, don’t hesitate to tap the many valuable resources available online. With the right tools and support, you’ll notice your dog’s anxiety melt away as they happily explore their new home with confidence.