How Moving Affects Dogs

As a loving dog owner, you want the absolute best for your pooch. You also understand that moving can put added stress on your dog and you want to alleviate that stress as much as possible. Thankfully, there are many ways that you can do that. But in order to do that, you must first understand how your dog is feeling so that you can adjust accordingly.

Confused and Scared

Dogs are happiest when they are able to maintain a daily routine. This helps them to know what to expect on a day to day basis and gives them a sense of safety and comfort. Unfortunately nothing disrupts routine like moving and your dog may feel afraid and confused by its new surroundings. Fortunately, there are ways to maintain some semblance of familiarity in your dog’s new life. Make sure to bring their old bed and toys. The familiar sensations and smells from these items will help put your dog at ease and make adjusting to their new home much easier.

Disoriented and Lost

New geographic areas can cause your dog to feel disoriented and unable to get a grasp on the lay of the land around them. The best way to prevent this is to take your dog for a few walks around the new neighborhood before the move, if you live close by your new home. That way, they will be much less intimidated when it comes time to make the new home their permanent residence.

Territorial Disputes

If you are moving to a home where there is already another animal, this may cause tension between the two animals as they fight over the territory. Allow the animals to meet in neutral territory a few times to familiarize themselves with one another and make the adjustment period go more smoothly.

Little or No Effects

Sometimes, relocation will have no discernable effect on dogs. This most often occurs when daily routines like walks and meals are maintained with clockwork consistency, despite the new location.

Atlantic Relocation Systems is here to help with every aspect of your move to or from the Phoenix area. If you would like any more advice on how to help your dog adjust to your upcoming move, contact one of our relocation specialists today.