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Dog of the Day: Piper!

Meme of the day: And that’s the truth!

Helping Your Pup Feel Comfortable In a New Home

Moving to a new home is a big change, not just for you but also for your furry friend. Dogs are creatures of habit, and a sudden change in their environment can be overwhelming. After all, there are so many new things to smell! That takes time.

Whether you're moving across town or to an entirely new state, it's essential that your dog feels safe and comfortable in their new surroundings. Here’s how you can help your dog adjust to a new home with patience, love, and consistency.

Introduce the New Digs (If You Can)

If possible, take your pup to visit the new home or neighborhood ahead of time so they can start getting familiar with the new sights and smells. Packing can be stressful, so create a quiet, safe space for your pup away from all the chaos.

Keep Things Normal

Dogs thrive on routine, so maintaining their usual schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime will help them feel secure. Even if everything else is in flux, sticking to familiar routines provides a sense of stability in the new environment. That also means trying to keep packing in a calm manner so they don’t get anxious about what you’re doing (which is not routine).

Create a Familiar Space

As soon as you arrive, set up a cozy space with your dog’s favorite bed, blankets, and toys. The familiar scents will provide comfort and help ease anxiety. Try to place their belongings in a similar setup to what they had in the previous home, which can help make the transition smoother.

Let Them Explore!

Let your dog explore the new home at their own pace. Keep them on a leash at first to ensure they feel secure, and gradually introduce them to different rooms. If you have a backyard, supervise the first few visits so your pup doesn’t feel overwhelmed—especially if they’ve never had a yard before.

Keep the Treats A-Comin’

Moving can be stressful for dogs, so extra affection and reassurance go a long way. Offer treats, praise, and plenty of snuggles to help them associate the new home with positive experiences.

Ease Into Alone Time

If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, avoid leaving them alone in the new home right away. Start with short absences and gradually increase the time you’re away. Leaving a piece of clothing with your scent can help your dog feel more secure.

Be Patient and Understanding

Adjusting to a new home can take days or even weeks. Some dogs may experience temporary behavioral changes, such as whining, pacing, or accidents indoors. Stay patient and give them time to settle in. It’s a lot to take in when they spend 90% of their time in the home.

Explore the New Neighborhood Together

Once your dog is comfortable indoors, take them for regular walks in the new area. Let them sniff around and explore to build their confidence in their new surroundings. Meeting friendly neighbors and their dogs can also help your pup feel at ease.

Watch for Signs of Stress

Every dog reacts differently to a move. Signs of stress can include excessive panting, hiding, loss of appetite, or destructive behavior. If your dog seems overly anxious or their stress continues for an extended period, consider consulting a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for support.

Celebrate Small Wins

Every step your dog takes toward settling in is a victory. Celebrate when they find a favorite new spot in the house, confidently explore the yard, or enjoy their first nap in their new bed. These small milestones help reinforce that their new home is a safe and happy place.

Home Sweet Home

Helping your dog adjust to a new home takes time, but they will soon feel right at home with love, patience, and consistency. Maintaining their routine, providing reassurance, and creating a comforting environment will make the transition smoother for your furry companion. Before you know it, they’ll be happily wagging their tail in their new space, ready to make wonderful memories with you.

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Sources:

Dog of the day: IG deo_piper_cavoodles

Meme of the day: IG lilothepawfect