Is a Dog Adversely Affected by Changing Homes?

Moving is one of life's most stressful experiences -- and it can be equally upsetting for dogs. Changing your pooch's familiar environment can disrupt his feelings of safety and security, instilling anxiety that you might be abandoning him. He may feel confused and demonstrate behavioral issues in the new home, such as trying to establish his territory by frequent urination or becoming too frightened to come out from under your bed. Take steps before and after the move to help make a smooth transition for your dog.

  1. Preparation

    • If you're moving to a new home in the neighborhood or an area within driving distance, take your pooch to visit it before the big day. If the owner is still living there, ask for permission to enter his home with your dog so he can start becoming familiar with it. If the owner agrees, visit a few times and walk through the home with your dog until he gains a sense of the surroundings. However, If the owner of the home refuses to allow your dog in his home, ask if you can walk him around the exterior of the home so he can at least become familiar with its exterior and yards.

    Moving Day

    • If possible, begin packing your home well in advance of moving day, rather than making it a last-minute, rushed effort, to avoid upsetting your dog. On moving day, place your pup in a "safe room" in your home to protect the movers and prevent other behavioral issues. There's a possibility he might become upset while seeing his familiar surroundings being packed into boxes and loaded onto a truck, and behave aggressively toward the movers. Or he might become so frightened that he runs away from home. Make sure to include your dog's food dishes and favorite toys in the safe room.

    After the Move

    • It's likely you'll be purchasing many items for your new home, but avoid buying anything new for your dog until he's acclimated to the new environment. Use his same bed, crate, toys and food dishes, which will offer him a sense of security in unfamiliar surroundings. If possible, place the items in the same places as they were in your old home. For the first few days, try to remain home with your pooch instead of leaving him alone. Stick to his familiar routine for walks, feeding, playing and bedtime. Avoid washing his blanket and other bedding to leave their familiar smell and give him comfort. Before allowing him to have the run of the new home, slowly introduce him to the rooms over a period of days.

    Changing Masters

    • You might be forced to rehome your beloved dog due to circumstances beyond your control, such as financial problems, allergies or moving to a residence that doesn't allow pets. After you've selected his new master, allow your dog to spend quality time with him to become acquainted, either in his home or your own. However, after your dog permanently moves into the new master's home, avoid visiting him, no matter how much you miss him. If you repeatedly visit and then leave again, it might make his separation from you even more difficult and traumatic.