Patrick MacFarland · Updated February 20, 2025
Moving can be a stressful experience. Not only are you packing your entire life, but you are also packing memories and experiences. It’s overwhelming physically and emotionally. When you have a pet, it can be even more overwhelming. And how long does it take a dog to adjust to a move?
Moving can be stressful for your dog, too. Just like humans, they can experience anxiety and stress. Taking them from their comfort zone and the environment they’re used to is something that’s hard for them. We’ll outline ways to transport your dog (and rough costs), how dogs can adjust to a new environment, and some product recommendations to ease your dog’s stress during the journey.
How To Transport Your Dog to a New Home
There are several ways to transport your dog to your new home, each with different costs. Let’s briefly take a look at each one.
Train Travel
Amtrak allows pet transportation, and the cost of having your dog ride with you is just $25. Only small dogs (those that can fit in a small carrier) are allowed on a train.
Automobile Travel
This method of transportation is the easiest, but there are various things to consider in determining cost, including gas, accommodation, and food. You should also have intermittent stops for potty breaks and for your dog to roam around.
Air Travel
Air travel is the fastest way to transport a pet. Smaller dogs can ride in the cabin inside a carrier that costs about $50. The one-way amount for United Airlines, Delta Airlines and American Airlines sits at $125. Large dogs must go in the cargo hold with special crates that cost about $200. The cost of transporting your dog in the cargo hold can range from $500-$1,000.
How Long Does It Take a Dog to Adjust to a New Home After Moving?
Stress is something that can stay in the body for some time. Humans know this. For dogs, moving can be stressful, so it will take time to adjust to their new home and environment. According to the RSPCA, it will take your pup about three weeks to fully adjust to their home and act how they’ve always acted.
Patience is key when it comes to your dog. Here are a few tips to make sure they acclimate faster, and they are in a safe environment.
- Stick to the old routines your dog is used to. This will ensure they know what to expect.
- Don’t buy new dog gear just because you moved. Stick to your old dog gear until your dog is totally comfortable and adjusted.
- Don’t leave your dog alone at your new home for a while.
- Give your dog lots and lots of love!
Pet Transporters Can Make The Experience Better for Your Dog
One way to ease the transition and ensure your dog has little stress during the moving process is to hire empathetic transporters.. The journey should be an enjoyable and unforgettable experience for your dog (imagine your dog wagging his tail because they are a happy pup).
Communication should be essential for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind. If the pet transporter provides regular updates, that’s a good sign. Every pet transporter should also be registered with the USDA and adhere to all their rules and regulations.
How to Find the Best Dog Transport Companies
Research is the best way to find the best dog transport companies. These companies can either ship your dog via ground transport or air travel. You can find hundreds of companies online. You can also visit IPATA’s website. They post informative articles about pet travel and answers to frequently asked questions.
The best pet shipping companies take all types of breeds. If they provide door-to-door delivery, it can relieve your pup’s stress and yours too.
CitizenShipper can be the Best Alternative!
Consider listing a shipment on CitizenShipper’s pet transport marketplace! Our platform offers many advantages over traditional pet transporters. Post a listing to our site, and a fleet of vetted and USDA-registered drivers will send you quotes within minutes. Once you choose the driver you like best, book your trip.
We pride ourselves in making pet shipping run the way it should — safe, seamless, and stress-free. We want your beloved dog to be in good hands with the drivers on CitizenShipper.
Because drivers compete for your business, we can save you up to 60-70% compared to traditional shipping companies! CitizenShipper also provides some added benefits, like a $1,000 pet protection guarantee, Booking Assurance Guarantee, direct communication with the driver who provides updates and 24/7 TeleVet access through our partner Vetster.
Bottom Line
Dogs can get stressed very easily when experiencing new surroundings. The best thing to do is be patient while they adjust. Making life easier for them during the transition is also a critical step in the adjustment process.
To make the transition easier while moving, booking a driver on CitizenShipper is a great way to alleviate any extra stress. Our drivers understand your dog means the world to you, which is why they will ensure proper care during the trek. This process shouldn’t be stressful or dreadful.
As the #1 pet transporter in the US, we know your dog means everything to you. Help out your dog, help yourself out, and throw away that stress! Post your pup’s transport info and get free quotes instantly!
Patrick MacFarland has been a teacher, a candidate for public office, and a local tour guide. But now he dedicates his time writing full-time, currently at CitizenShipper and VeraContent.
Content Writer at CitizenShipper. I’ve also been published on The Penny Hoarder, Mommy Poppins and mxdwn.
