Is Moving to a New House Stressful For Dogs?
Moving to a new house is stressful to dogs, but there are fortunately several steps you can take to ameliorate the situation.
If you are planning to move soon, careful planning is paramount so as to exert as little stress on your canine companion as possible.
If you have already moved, it's important to recognize the signs of stress in your dog. Oftentimes, dog owners confuse the signs of stress with dogs being disobedient which only makes matters worse.
Discover the signs of stress in dogs after a recent move and what you can do to ameliorate the situation.
Why is Moving Stressful to Dogs?
You may wonder why moving is stressful to dogs when you will be taking care of most of the stuff. You have already packed everything in boxes and the movers have already loaded a good part of the furniture. The only thing that's really left to do is to take your dog on a car ride and deliver him to his new home, how's that for convenience?
Yet, many dogs get stressed when undergoing a move, why is that? Following are several good reasons.
An Unfamiliar Environment
Dogs like to live in familiar quarters because they know what to expect. Moving to an unfamiliar place means getting used to new sights, new sounds and new smells which requires an adjustment period and this can trigger stress.
A Loss of Territory
Moving can be stressful to dogs considering that dogs tend to feel closely tied to familiar territories. When they move to a new place, they leave behind familiar scents and will be forced to eat and sleep in a new place which can feel unsettling.
Disruptions in Routines
Dogs love routines and any changes to their daily schedules can cause them to feel stressed. If your dog is fed or walked at a different time, this can cause him to feel confused and unsettled.
Too Much Stimulation
The hustle and bustle of activity associated with a move can feel overwhelming to dogs.
You have many people packing and carrying things, movers coming in and out of the home and an overall tense atmosphere which dogs can pick up on triggering them to feel anxious themselves.
What Are Signs of Stress in Dogs During and After a Move?
According to research, during or after a move, almost 50 percent of dogs may show signs of stress.
Statistically, 23 percent of dogs will manifest excessive vocalization, 15 percent will urinate or defecate, 13 percent will groom themselves excessively and 20 percent will even escape from the new home.
How to Reduce Stress in Dogs During and After a New Move
There are several steps you can take to minimize the amount of stress your dog will endure after moving. Following are several general tips.
Maintain Your Dog's Routine
Try to keep your dog's regular routine the same as possible, respecting your dog's mealtimes, walk times and sleeping times.
Organize Walks
Exercise is a great way to help dogs better cope with stress. Walks and playtime can help keep the dog's mind off the move.
Bring Familiar Items
Bring along items that carry the scent of the old home. This can be an old t-shirt, a blanket and your dog's toys and usual food and water bowls. This helps provide your dog with some olfactory reassurance.
Condition to a Crate
Get your dog used to being crated so that your dog won't struggle with riding in a crate or being closed in one here and there, such as during the first days when you may need your dog confined as you disinfect the floors.
Invest in Calming Aids
If your dog is prone to getting stressed, ask your vet whether an over-the-counter supplement or prescription medication may turn helpful.
Calming aids such as pheromone-based collars, sprays and diffusers can turn helpful too.
Allow to Explore
Allow your dog to explore his new surroundings at his own pace, a little at a time. Always keep your dog on leash. Praise and reward your dog for taking the initiative to explore.
Microchip Your Dog
Microchipping your dog is a good way to ensure he returns home should he happen to escape. If your dog is already microchipped, make sure to update the address and phone number. You may also want to include the phone number of a friend or relative in a different geographical area as a backup.
References:
- Seksel K., Coyle W., Chaseling S. Stresses associated with moving house with pets. Proc Third Internatl Cong Vet Behav Med. 2001
Disclaimer: this article is not meant to be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice or behavioral advice. If your dog is acting sick or aggressive please consult with a qualified professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
