Moving with Multiple Dogs: Managing Different Breeds & Needs

Moving is a big change for families, and it can be even more challenging when you have more than one dog. Each dog may have its own needs, personality, and way of adjusting to new places. Taking care of multiple breeds requires a bit of extra planning and attention.

Learning how to manage different breeds and needs can help make your move much smoother, both for you and your dogs. With the right tips and a calm approach, you can prepare your pets for a safe and comfortable move.

1. Schedule separate outdoor time for each dog to reduce stress and allow individual attention.

• When moving with multiple dogs, it helps to give each dog separate outdoor time. This lets you spend time with each dog alone and pay attention to their unique needs. Dogs can get stressed during big changes, and one-on-one outdoor time can help them relax.
• Each breed may have different exercise needs. Some dogs might need a long walk, while others want to play or sniff around. Scheduling outdoor time for each dog makes sure they get the activity that fits them best.
• Separate outings also reduce arguments between dogs. It can be hard for dogs to share space, especially in new places. Giving each dog private outdoor time lets them burn off energy and helps prevent conflict.
• This is also a good chance for you to bond with each dog. By focusing on one dog at a time, you can watch their behavior more closely and notice any signs of stress or discomfort. This can make moving easier for both you and your dogs.

2. Use crates or designated rooms to separate dogs during travel or training sessions.

• When moving with multiple dogs, having crates or separate rooms can help keep things organized. This keeps each dog in a controlled space, which makes travel or training safer and less stressful.
• Crates give your dogs their own space. Each dog has a spot to rest and feel safe, especially during a long trip. Keeping dogs in their own crates can also prevent fights or accidents in the car.
• If crates are not possible, you can use baby gates or doors to divide dogs into different rooms. This works well during meal times or training sessions at home. You can focus on one dog at a time and limit distractions.
• Having separate crates for each dog is important because it ensures that all dogs have their own area and bedding. This is useful in both your car and your new home. When you keep all crates in the same space, dogs can see and hear each other, which can help them feel calmer.
• Using crates or different rooms also makes it easier to manage dogs with different needs, like various energy levels or temperaments. For example, a puppy might need more breaks and a quieter spot, while an older dog might prefer a calm, dark area.

3. Pack each dog’s favorite blanket and toys to provide comfort and familiarity.

• When you move with multiple dogs, bringing each dog’s favorite blanket and toys can help reduce their stress. Familiar items carry the scent of home and make new places feel safer.
• Pack their usual bedding or a blanket they often use. The comfort of their own blanket can help them rest better in an unfamiliar environment. This is especially helpful if your dogs are nervous travelers.
• Toys also offer comfort and keep your dogs occupied during the move. Choose their favorites, especially ones they are attached to. Even if they do not play much, just having the toy nearby can make a difference.
• Experts suggest including comfort items, such as blankets or favorite beds, because these familiar scents help dogs settle in new surroundings. This tip is recommended in guides for both travel and moving with pets, since dogs often feel calmer with items from home.
• If your dogs have different needs or preferences, label their items so nothing gets mixed up. Individual toys and blankets can limit confusion and make each dog feel more at ease.

4. Feed dogs separately to avoid food aggression and create peaceful mealtimes.

• Feeding your dogs in separate spaces helps prevent fights and stress during meals. Each dog should have its own bowl and a spot away from the others. This gives each dog a sense of safety and reduces the chances of food aggression.
• Food aggression can happen in any breed or age. Even dogs who have never shown signs before might act out during stressful times like moving. Managing how and where they eat is important for their comfort and your peace of mind.
• If you can, feed your dogs in different rooms or use sturdy barriers. Be patient, and wait until each dog is finished before letting them back together. Keep an eye on them for a few days, as new routines can take time to adjust.
• Training your dogs not to go near each other’s food is also helpful. Stay calm and consistent if a dog tries to eat from another bowl. Learning to respect each other’s space can make mealtimes much smoother for everyone, especially in a new home.

5. Maintain regular exercise routines tailored to each dog’s breed and energy level.

• It’s important to keep your dogs on their usual exercise routines during a move. Dogs are more comfortable when they know what to expect each day. Regular walks and playtime help reduce stress and burn off extra energy.
• Different breeds and personalities have different exercise needs. For example, herding or working breeds often need longer or more intense activities, while smaller or calmer breeds may be fine with shorter walks. Take the time to consider each dog’s age and health, too. Puppies and young adults usually need more exercise than senior dogs.
• Try to match the activities to each dog’s energy level. If you have a high-energy dog, include more running, fetch, or training games. For a mellow dog, keep routines gentle, such as a slow walk or quiet play.
• If possible, take each dog out separately sometimes, especially if their needs are much different. This helps everyone get the right kind of exercise. Walking together is also helpful for bonding but should be managed to match the pace and habits of each dog.
• Adjust routines as needed during your move. You may need to find new walking routes or exercise at different times. Staying consistent with their activity helps your dogs feel safe and keeps them healthy.

6. Consult your veterinarian about health needs specific to each breed before moving.

• Each breed of dog can have unique health needs, especially during stressful events like moving. Before your move, set up a visit with your veterinarian to discuss each dog individually.
• Ask about any breed-specific concerns, such as sensitivity to heat, need for certain vaccines, or risk of anxiety. Some breeds may be more likely to suffer from stress or motion sickness than others.
• Your vet can check if your dogs are healthy enough for travel and provide tips to make the move easier. They can also update vaccines and suggest ways to help your dogs adjust.
• Get advice on diet, exercise, and medication needs for each breed. This will help you handle any issues that may come up during or after the move.
• Keeping your dogs’ medical records handy and up to date is important. Your veterinarian can help you organize these records so you have them ready if needed in your new location.

7. Set up individual resting areas or stations for dogs to retreat and relax.

• Giving each dog its own resting area helps lower stress during a move. Dogs like having a spot where they can go to be alone and recharge. This is important if you have different breeds or ages, since each dog may need quiet time for different reasons.
• Use beds, mats, or crates to create separate spaces. Try to place these areas in low-traffic parts of your new home. Dogs often feel safer when they can rest without being disturbed by family or other pets.
• Resting stations make it easier to prevent arguments over territory or beds. If you set up these spots right away, your dogs will have a sense of security from the start.
• If you have the room, use baby gates or doors to separate spaces even further. This can be useful during meal times or if one dog needs extra space to calm down. Designated resting zones help your dogs adapt more smoothly to the new house.
• Making sure each dog has a clear, comfortable area to relax can reduce stress for both your pets and your family while moving. Keeping these areas set up and consistent makes it easier for the dogs to adjust.

8. Label food and medication clearly to manage each dog’s specific dietary requirements.

• When moving with several dogs, keeping their food and medication organized is important. Each dog may have different dietary needs or prescriptions. Clearly labeling everything helps keep things simple and safe.
• Write each dog’s name on their food containers and medication bags. You can also add feeding instructions or dosage amounts right on the label. This way, there is no confusion during busy moving days.
• If you use commercial dog food, check the label for special instructions or key ingredients. Some dogs need unique diets, so it’s important to tell them apart easily. You can read more about how to decipher dog food labels to make the best choice.
• Organizing in advance will help you avoid mix-ups. Double-check your labels before and after moving to make sure nothing changes. This simple step can keep each dog healthy and comfortable during the move.

9. Introduce new environments gradually to prevent overwhelm, especially for sensitive breeds.

• When you move with multiple dogs, introduce them to their new home slowly. Sensitive breeds or anxious dogs can feel stressed in an unfamiliar place. Take time to let each dog explore one area at a time, starting with quiet rooms before busier parts of the home.
• Go at your dogs’ pace. Let them sniff around and get comfortable without rushing. For outdoor spaces, keep dogs on a leash and guide them through the yard or neighborhood bit by bit. This helps lower anxiety and builds their confidence.
• If your dog seems nervous, try to stick to familiar routines as much as possible. Regular mealtimes, walks, and play sessions can make the transition easier. Gradual routine changes are often best for preventing setbacks and encouraging long-term, good behavior.
• For very sensitive breeds, bring along favorite toys or blankets to give them comfort. Watch for signs like hiding or barking, which can show that your dog is overwhelmed. Give them breaks and a quiet place to relax if needed.

10. Monitor interactions closely for signs of stress or conflict during the transition.

• Watch your dogs carefully during the first few weeks in your new home. Pay attention to their body language and how they act around each other. Signs of stress can include pacing, whining, hiding, or avoiding other dogs.
• Conflict might look like growling, snapping, or stiff posture. If you see these behaviors, give the dogs space and let them calm down.
• Set aside time to observe them together and apart. Make sure each dog has a safe area where it can retreat if needed.
• If problems continue, consider asking a dog trainer or veterinarian for more help. Each dog may adjust at a different pace, so patience is important.