Around 88% of people in the US consider pets part of a family and that means that when the family makes a move to a new city, pets also make this transition. Most dogs are content to move so long as their social group remains the same but some can struggle a little and miss their old home. Moreover, a move may mean different routines and new feeding and exercise times that your pooch may need time to get accustomed to. If you have made a move or you are about to do so, ensure you follow these tips so that your dog quickly feels content in his new abode.

Getting Your Dog Used to His New Home

If you are moving to a big home and you have plenty to unpack, it may be worth restricting your dog’s access to rooms that are neat and prepared for his comfort. You should begin by showing him where his food and water bowls are and provide him with easy access to the yard. Set up his dog bed and/or crate, and welcome him to more rooms or spaces as these become organized and livable.

Following a Routine

Your routine may change slightly if you have to work a different shift to what you did in your old city, but the quicker you establish a new routine, the more secure your dog will feel. Moreover, specific times may change (including wake-up and feeding times), but the number and length of activities such as walking and visiting the park should be as close as possible to what your dog is used to. Most dogs need at least a couple of good walks a day. If you have always taken your pooch out in the early morning and mid-afternoon, don’t worry if you now need to do so in the morning and early evening. Just make sure he was plenty of opportunities to walk, run, and jump (or partake in activities that are suitable to his age and activity levels). Don’t forget to use a Fitbark GPS tracker in case your dog should get distracted and run too far. With this light, small tracker, you should be able to find him in no time.

Making New Friends

If you have moved residence and you have children, then one of the first things you did may have been to enroll them in school, extra-curricular activities, workshops, and other activities so they could meet others and make new friends. Indeed, social groups are a great way to beat the moving blues, as is getting kids excited about all the wonderful things their new home will have to offer. When working on building new social networks, don’t forget about your dog. As stated by experts at VCA Hospitals, dogs “are social animals that enjoy the company of their peers.” In the same way that you take your kids to the park for playdates, set up puppy parties, try to meet other dog owners regularly at the dog park, and consider doggy daycare if you have to leave your pup alone for various hours of the day.

Treats for Your Pup

If your dog is feeling a little anxious on his first few days in your new home, soothe him with toys, treats, and extra affection. Use your moments together to bond. Working on tricks together is a key way to ensure you give him 100% of your attention. Use a clicker or treats to reward him and keep him busy while you are unpacking with games he may enjoy playing himself. The latter can include food mazes and automatic ball throwers, which you can place in the yard and which are perfect for dogs who can’t get enough of ‘fetch-style’ games.

If you are planning on moving to a new city, you may be worried about whether or not your dog will adapt well. The good news is that your dog is a social animal who is likely to be content so long as his humans are around. Make the transition easier by slipping into a routine, finding fantastic parks to visit regularly, and providing your dog with treats and games to keep him entertained.