When you move home, there’s a lot to get used to. But it’s not just us humans who need to adjust – it’s the same for our dogs, too!
While dogs can find moving house stressful and might not enjoy it, there are some things that we can do to help them – don’t forget to make sure they have some of the best dog treats, too!
Pooch & Mutt’s resident vet Dr Linda Simon has offered five top tips to help our dogs settle into their new home – and we think number three in particular is really important to remember!
Whether it's new smells, a new sleeping space, a new garden, or a new walking route, there’s SO much for your dog to take in,” explains Dr Simon. “So, after the chaos of moving is settling down, consider the following when helping your dog adjust to their new surroundings.”
1. Stick to your usual routine as much as possible: From mealtimes to walks to play and training, it’s important to keep to your pup’s usual routine. Even if your’s isn’t quite right – perhaps you’ve got a few days off work or you’re spending all your spare time unpacking – it’s important that your dog’s is as normal as it can be.
2. Arranging to stay home as much as possible: To avoid separation anxiety, it’s a good idea to stay at home as much as you can. This is most important when you’ve just moved – as your dog begins to adjust more, you can increase the amount of time you’re away. Is it possible for you or another member of the household to work from home for a little while? Here’s how to ease separation anxiety in dogs for more tips!
3. Allow for behavior that’s out of character: “This could include whining through the night or having little accidents around the house,” says Dr Simon. “With the right approach, they should revert to normal once settled.”
4. Prepare for some retraining: You might need to retrain your pup a little, particularly at night. A bit of regression is normal – after all, it’s such a big change for your dog!
5. Rebuild their own area/sleeping quarters: Get any of your pup’s belongings that smell like your old home and make sure your dog has a good area to relax and sleep in that’s similar to their previous one.
Whatever you do, just keep in mind that this is a big change for your dog, too. But, sooner rather than later your pup should be making themselves firmly at home!
