No results found

How to settle your dog when moving home

divider
shutterstock 1212373009 xjedsh

Are you moving house? Do you need to downsize or move to a different part of the country? Or maybe you want to purchase a new build house that suits your growing family?


Whatever your reason for moving, it can cause a significant disruption to your daily life – not just for you, but your furry family members too! That’s why we’ve put together these top tips on how to settle your dog when moving house.

Stick to familiar routines

During the move, it’s important to stick to your dog’s usual routine as much as possible. Moving can be chaotic, but feeding, walking and playing with your pet at the same time as usual will give them the consistency they need during this period of change.

If you’re moving a considerable distance and need to go away for property visits or anything else, consider getting a homesitter to take care of your house and dog.

They can provide comfort to your furry family member by following their typical routine as you navigate the move.

Create a safe space

Once you have the keys to your new property, create a safe space for your pet to relax and unwind.

The RSPCA advises giving your dog “a comfortable, dry, draught-free, clean and quiet place to rest undisturbed.” They also advise making their home “safe, secure and free from hazards”.

This could be anything from a cosy corner of the living room to a spot under the stairs. You could pop their dog bed here and some toys to help them feel at ease in the new space.

Start with small steps

Just like humans, pets need time to acclimatise and familiarise themselves with their new home. To avoid overwhelming your dog, start slow by introducing them gently to their immediate surroundings.

Let them sniff and explore your new house and take them out to discover the new garden. From the moment you head in, enforce any rules as to where they can go.

For example, if you don’t want your dog to go upstairs, do commands, praise and reward techniques straight away so they learn the boundaries of the new home.

Then, take them out on walks around their new neighbourhood to get them used to the sights, sounds and smells. You could take them on trips to a local dog-friendly park or café where they can socialise with other furry friends.

By sticking to your dog’s typical routine, creating a safe space in your new home and starting with small steps to familiarise them with the new environment, you can help your dog feel settled and secure throughout your house move.

RECOMMENDED

RS820996 6466 2200 hpr guajiy
Thu 28 Nov 2024

Inspiring Minds Since 1683

The Ashmolean Museum

Based in the heart of Oxford, and Britain’s first public museum, the Ashmolean Museum has been inspiring minds since 1683. Free to all and open every day, the Ashmolean offers something

The Shark is Broken
Wed 27 Nov 2024

Oxford Playhouse

Spring 2025

Get ready for a spring bursting with inspirational performance and great entertainment at Oxford Playhouse!

DSC 0107 gxlzgy
Fri 1 Nov 2024

Oxfordshire and its surrounds are famous for outstanding food and hospitality: from farms, growers and markets to cafes, pubs and restaurants. We are delighted to have the chance to feature some of the very best.

151111 Rhys Wellingtonia Table 7315 ii1scw
Fri 1 Nov 2024

Wood as Art Form

Michelle Heather

When I visited FarmED at Shipton-under-Wychwood earlier this year, I could not help but notice some absolutely stunning wood sculptures in the reception area and on display in the café.