Moving to a new home with your little buddy can be a wonderful yet quite stressful experience. And the most important is that this experience can be challenging not only for the owners but for the dogs as well. After all, they are creatures of habit. In other words, when you have to move with puppies, a changing environment can be overwhelming for your pet. In order to guarantee the smoothest transition possible, you have to plan and prepare carefully for the process. Just like college students getting ready for a test, you have to consider all the steps you will take when you move with puppies. Let us check out some practical tips on the process to see how you can minimize stress and help your pets adjust to their new setting. With a bit of homework, you’ll cope with it sooner than you know.
Plan Ahead
The key to the painless move with puppies is precise planning. We recommend you begin by doing some research on pet-friendly neighborhoods, choosing a new vet, as well as making sure your new home will have a safe haven for the little buddy to play. It is necessary to schedule all important vaccinations or check-ups with the chosen veterinarian in order to ensure the doggie is healthy and happy.
Introduce the New Space for a Puppy Gradually
See how it is moving around, trying to get used to a new place. Do not be in a hurry! Your task is to allow the dogs to explore their new home step by step. For instance, you may start with a small area and then gradually introduce them to other rooms of the house. Thus, your furry friend will acclimate without feeling overwhelmed.
Maintain Routine
When there’s a routine, dogs are the happiest! It is highly recommended to follow your puppy’s regular exercises, feeding, and playtime schedules. Don’t ruin the routine that the animal got used to. The point here is that consistency will provide both stability and comfort during the process of transition.
Secure a Safe Space
When moving with a puppy, it is crucial to create a designated safe area in your new environment where the pet will retreat after a busy day. You can either provide a small room equipped with their toys, a sleeping place, and water, or a crate.
Familiar Items from Old Home
When you move to a new home, don’t forget to take familiar items with you. Things like toys, beds, blankets, and other accessories will carry the scent of the place the dog knows and provide it with a sense of stability, familiarity, and comfort.
Explore the Neighborhood Gradually
When getting the new place better, ensure to start with short walks. This will enable your puppy to get familiar with the street or town. All the smells, sounds, and sights will be carefully explored sooner than you know. However, let them do it gradually while walking by their side.
Attention & Positive Reinforcement
Pay attention to their needs, and do not leave your puppy on their own for a long time. Make sure to reward it for positive behaviors in their new setting. For example, you can choose some praise, treats, or playtime as a special reward. The trick here is that positive reinforcement will help little hunter associate their new home with the most pleasant experiences.
Be Patient & Observe
Monitor their behavior and body language. It is important for the owners to pay close attention to the slightest signs like discomfort, stress, and anxiety and react properly to any issues. Being patient is a must, of course. After all, this is a tiring transition period for both of you.
Maintain a Calm Demeanor
When it comes to the emotions of owners, pups are very attuned to them. In other words, if you happen to be anxious or stressed, your doggie will definitely pick up on it. That is why you should try to maintain a positive and calm demeanor in order to help your little friend feel relaxed and at ease.
Update Identification & Microchipping
Ensure the identification tags and microchip information of the dog you’re moving with are updated with your new address and contact details. Life happens, and in the case of your puppy getting lost, you will get it back.
Explore the Outdoors Together
We are all busy adults with work and social issues on the list. However, no matter how hectic your schedule is, it is important to spend an adequate amount of time with your puppy. If you’re a busy student, ask online experts, “Please, do my math homework for me,” or leave that report for tomorrow if you’re an office employee. Instead, go exploring the parks, trails, as well as other areas outdoors. Not only will it solidify the bond between you two, but it will also help your pet get used to and actually like the new surroundings.
Contact Professional If Needed
Do you think the puppy is having a hard time adjusting or looking stressed for a long period of time? If yes, do not hesitate to seek professional help for your doggie. It can be either a veterinary behaviorist or a competent dog trainer.
It’s not a surprise that moving with a puppy is quite similar to moving with a child. The process requires much understanding, patience, and careful planning. If you make sure to stick to the tips given above and be there for your furry friend, it will soon feel comfortable and safe in its new environment, ensuring the smoothest transition possible. Keep in mind that with love, care, consistency, and time, your pooch will soon settle into its new setting and keep on being a healthy, happy, and active member of your family.
