Moving With Your Dog: Can Moving Be Traumatic For Dogs?

Patrick MacFarland Patrick MacFarland · Updated January 16, 2024

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Moving with your dog can be traumatic.

Moving to a new place can be a stressful experience for everyone involved, but it can be particularly difficult for dogs. Your pet may be confused and anxious when faced with a new environment and routine – but is moving with your dog traumatic for your furry friend?

The short answer is that it doesn’t have to be. To ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible, there are steps you can take to make the move easier on your pup. Learn more about why moving can be stressful for dogs and how to ease the transition with these helpful tips.

Why Moving Can Be Stressful for Dogs

When dogs are faced with a new environment, they can experience stress and anxiety. This is because their routine has been disrupted and they’re unfamiliar with the sounds, smells and sights of the new home. Dogs are creatures of habit and don’t like when their routine is changed too abruptly. Even if the move is exciting for you, it can be stressful for your pup.

Common Stress-Inducing Signs in Dogs

When dogs experience stress, there are various signs that you can look out for to determine if your pup is feeling overwhelmed. Some of the most common signs of stress your dog may do include:

  • Panting
  • Pacing
  • Trembling
  • Excessive barking
  • Refusal to eat.

If you notice any of these signs in your pup, then it’s a good indication that they’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

How to Prepare Your Dog for Moving

Before you move, there are a few steps you can take to get your pup ready for the transition. First, start by introducing your pup to the new home. If possible, take your pup for a short tour of the home and point out familiar items that you’ll be bringing with you. This will help make the new home seem more familiar and will help your pup feel more at ease.

Next, make sure to keep up with your pup’s routine during the move. This means continuing to feed them, walk them and provide them with plenty of exercise. Exercise is particularly important when it comes to reducing stress in dogs, so make sure to keep up with your pup’s regular exercise routine.

Finally, it’s important to provide your pup with plenty of love and attention on moving day and during the move. This can help to reduce their stress levels and make them feel more comfortable in their new home.

Tips for Helping Your Dog Adjust to the New Environment

Once you’ve moved, there are a few steps you can take to help your pup adjust to their new environment. First, make sure that your pup has plenty of space to explore. If possible, create a safe area where your pup can go to relax and get used to their new home. This could be a quiet corner of the house or a dog bed in the living room.

Next, make sure that your pup is getting plenty of exercise. Exercise can help to reduce stress and will help your pup to adjust to their new home and routine. Additionally, it’s also important to establish a routine for your pup in their new home. This could include feeding times, walks and playtime. Establishing a routine will help your pup to feel more comfortable and secure in their new environment.

Finally, it’s important to provide your pup with plenty of love and affection. Give your dog time to acclimate to their new house. This can help to reduce their stress levels and make them feel more at ease in their new home.

Additional Resources for Moving With Your Dog

Moving can be a stressful experience for everyone, but there are resources available to help make the process easier. From online resources to professional pet moving services, there are a variety of options that can help you and your pup make the move as smooth as possible.

How to Find the Best Dog Transport Companies

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.

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 (and even exotic pets). If they provide door-to-door delivery, it can relieve your pup’s stress and yours too.

Bottom Line

Moving with your pup can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and tips, you can make the transition easier for your pup and help them adjust to their new environment. By following the steps outlined above and taking advantage of additional resources, you can make the move less stressful for your pup.