Try to bring more items your dog used before

Although moving with dogs is not particularly common, there will definitely be owners who encounter this situation. Generally, adult dogs adapt much better than puppies, so the chance of stress reactions is much lower than in puppies. Usually, the only issue is that they may be less active for the first few days, but once they get familiar with the new environment, the problem will be resolved, especially since the most important person—the owner—is still by their side. However, whether for puppies or adult dogs, there are some common points to pay attention to when moving with them.

1. Try to bring as many familiar toys or supplies as possible when moving

When moving, try to bring as many familiar items for your dog as possible, because these items carry familiar scents that can make your dog feel more secure in the new home. This helps your dog adapt to the new environment faster. For example, your dog's toys, mats, or blankets—things they are frequently in contact with—do not need to be replaced immediately. Even if you want to replace them, don’t rush it; wait until your dog slowly adapts to the new environment before gradually swapping them out one by one. It’s best not to change everything at once. Additionally, if your dog had other companions at the original home, such as cats or turtles, bring them to the new home as well, as this can greatly help increase your dog’s sense of security.

2. It is best not to place your dog in the new home prematurely

We may think that since dogs feel uneasy because they are unfamiliar with the environment, we might as well place them directly into the new home. However, this approach is not recommended. It might be better for newly bought puppies than for dogs that have lived with you for a long time. Newly bought puppies don’t have much they feel attached to yet, but adult dogs do. Placing them recklessly in the new home can cause more anxiety. It is still recommended that the owner move in with the dog so that if the dog shows signs of distress, the owner can comfort and encourage them instead of letting them stay alone in a strange environment.

It is best to let dogs avoid the moving day

3. On moving day, it is best to have your dog avoid the scene

On the day when movers officially come to relocate items, it’s best to send your dog to your parents’ house or to a trusted friend the dog relies on. Because many strangers suddenly coming to the house and taking things away is very difficult for dogs to understand. Almost all dogs will feel uneasy; some dogs may even be hostile or attack the moving staff. So, if there is a place you can entrust, it’s best to let your dog avoid the moving day.

4. After moving in, let your dog get familiar with the surrounding environment

For adult dogs, owners can take them to explore the new surrounding environment in advance. With the owner’s companionship, the dog will feel much more comfortable and can observe the surroundings more securely. If the dog appears timid, the owner can comfort the dog appropriately—give them favorite toys, some treats, or play a game to help them relax. Finally, after moving in, don’t feed too much at once; gradually return to the previous feeding amount.