How to Move Your Dog

Find a pet-friendly residential area

Before putting your move into full gear, you want to make sure that you are moving to an area that is dog-friendly. Some neighborhoods or rentals do not allow certain breeds of dogs, let alone dogs in general.

If you are fortunate enough to find an area that allows dogs, you still may have a few other factors to consider. Your next-door-neighbor may have a dog that poses a threat to your pup, you may be required to pay a pet maintenance fee, or your dog might not have enough yard space to play frisbee so you’ll want to research local dog parks. Do enough research prior your move to ensure that where you are relocating to is ideal for you and your furry friend.

Tip: If you have concerns about your prospective landlords rejecting your application because of your dog, try creating a dog resume which includes your dog’s name and picture and testimony that they are well behaved.

Crate Training

If you are traveling long-distance by car or train, your dog will need to sit for a long period of time in a confined space. A great way to prepare your pup for moving is partaking in crate training. Getting your dog crate trained is a great way to keep them calm throughout the moving process. Your dog will learn to eat and sleep whilst in the crate, rather than running around and barking while you are trying to move things around. Create a positive association to the crate by providing treats, that way your dog will be prepared to go in the crate when it comes to the big day.

Prepare a Travel Kit

Whatever essentials you need throughout your move, your dog will probably need too. Most people bring snacks, entertainment, and water with them when they travel. There is no reason why your dog shouldn’t have the same items!

If you are traveling far, prepare a travel kit for your pup to ensure they have everything they need to avoid any whining or any serious health issues. This should include their favorite toys, food, water, food and water dishes or bowls, a leash, and any necessary medications. Along with a travel-kit, you should also always have a first-aid kit for your pup whenever you travel.

Adjust Your Dog to Their New Environment

Some run around and wag their tails with excitement. Others shyly hide in a corner until they are ensured the area is safe. Regardless, it is going to take a while for your dog to get used to your new home. Your dog needs to get used to the new smells in the area, feel out space in your new home, and meet the other animals in the neighborhood.

After pet-proofing your new space, allow your dog to get used to each room in the house at his or her own pace. Start by putting all of their items in one room as a “home base” to make them feel at home. If you pick up your old routines, such as feeding and walking times, you can slowly get your dog used to this new lifestyle.

On that same note, make sure your pet has no way of escaping your new home – you wouldn’t want your best friend to run off to chase a squirrel and then not know where to come home to. It is always recommended that your pup have a dog tag with your current phone number and is microchipped just in case.