Moving Dogs to a New Home

Moving to a new home, whether it is just down the street or across the country, can make dogs feel stressed. Dogs are territorial animals, so they can feel out of place or anxious when owners take them away from their usual environments. Dogs can exhibit signs of stress by whining, breathing quickly, shaking or sweating.

  1. Preparing to Move

    • Owners can keep their dogs from getting stressed by packing for a move for a few weeks instead of a few days. By packing for a longer period of time, owners help their dogs get used to changes in their surroundings. A dog owner must purchase a crate for her pet at least two weeks before the move so the dog can get used to staying in the crate. The owner must also trim her dog's nails so the dog does not injure itself if it becomes agitated while traveling.

    Travel

    • Owners who drive to their new homes must transport their dogs in air-conditioned or heated vehicles. Dogs must stay in their crates unless they are used to traveling in vehicles and will stay relaxed. Owners must stay with their dogs at all times while traveling since dogs can easily get lost or run away during a move. Dog owners who fly to their destinations must make sure their dogs can travel in cabins or safe, pressurized cargo areas. Owners who want their dogs to travel in an airplane cabin need to reserve space in advance and obtain necessary paperwork.

    Introducing the New Home

    • Owners must make sure their dogs are fed and hydrated as soon as they arrive at their new homes. Dogs will likely want to sniff around and see their new homes, and they may not be interested in anything else until they feel secure. Owners must take their dogs out for walks so the dogs can establish their new territories. While unpacking and moving furniture, owners must keep their dogs in a separate room with food, water and familiar objects such as dog beds or toys. Familiar objects can help dogs feel more comfortable.

    Safety in the New Home

    • New homes can be dangerous for pets because items may not be put away, and there may be stacks of boxes around. Owners must keep their dogs away from open doors or windows, and they must make sure dogs cannot escape from any fenced areas. Dog owners must look for electrical cords, medicine, antifreeze and other harmful things that may not be put away yet. Foods that are poisonous to dogs, such as chocolate, must be put away as soon as owners purchase them.