Mon to Sun 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Moving a Dog: Tips for a Smooth Transition to Your New Home

Are you about to move with your loyal four-legged friend? At Verhuisbedrijf Direct we understand that this can be an exciting time, both for you and your dog. That is why we have listed 5 essential tips for you. With our advice, you can make moving with your dog a positive experience, without unnecessary stress.

Preparation: The Key to Successful Moving with a Dog

1. Plan well in advance

Dogs are creatures of habit. They like routine and can be upset by sudden changes. That is why it is crucial to prepare your dog for the move gradually.

Start introducing moving boxes a few weeks before the big day. Just leave them in the house so your dog can get used to them. You can even make a game out of it! Hide a tasty dog biscuit in one of the boxes and let your dog look for it. This way he associates the boxes with something positive.

2. Keep old habits

In the midst of all the changes, it is important to stick to your dog's daily routines as much as possible. This will give him stability during a period of change.

Try to keep these points in mind:

  • Keep regular times for walks and meals
  • Make time for play and attention
  • Leave favorite toys and the dog bed in their familiar place for as long as possible

3. Explore the new neighborhood

Do you already know your new neighborhood? Then take your dog for a scouting tour! Take a long walk in the area around your future home. This way your four-legged friend can get used to the new smells and sounds.

Imagine your dog sniffing enthusiastically at a tree in your new street. He marks his territory and looks around proudly. It's as if he's saying: "Look, boss, this is going to be our new home!"

Moving Day: Keep Your Dog Safe and Calm

1. Create a safe place

Moving day itself can be quite hectic. How do you make sure your dog experiences as little of it as possible? We have a few options for you:

  1. Staying with a trusted person: Do you have a family member or friend that your dog loves? Maybe he could stay with them for a day.
  2. Quiet room in the old house: No place to stay found? Then set up a quiet room in your old house. Your dog can stay there while you load the moving van.
  3. Safe place in the new house: Do you already have access to your new home? Then you can set up a quiet spot for your dog there. Let your dog get used to the new environment.

2. Safe transportation

Are you taking your dog with you on moving day? Then pay attention to the following points:

  • Use a crate or seat belt for dogs
  • Provide plenty of fresh air
  • Take breaks for short walks and water
  • Never leave your dog alone in the car

Don't forget to give your dog plenty of water and to let him pee regularly. An accident in the car is the last thing you want during the move! Moving with your dog requires patience.

Arrival in the new home: gradual introduction

1. Explore the new home together

You have arrived at your new home. Exciting! But how do you let your dog get used to it calmly?

  1. Wait until most of the furniture is in place before letting your dog in.
  2. Explore the house together quietly, room by room.
  3. Give your dog time to sniff and take in the new scents.
  4. Place your dog's belongings (basket, food bowl, toys) in a quiet place.

Imagine this: your dog cautiously walks into the living room. He sniffs the new couch, looks at you for reassurance and then wags his tail cautiously. The adventure can begin! Moving with a dog is often more difficult than you think.

2. Create a trusting environment

To help your dog feel at home quickly in its new home, you can do the following:

  • Place familiar objects such as the dog's bed and favorite toys
  • Stick to the old feeding and walking routines as much as possible
  • Give extra attention and rewards for calm behavior

The first weeks: adjustment and routine

1. Give your dog time

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your dog won’t be completely used to his new surroundings right away. Most dogs need a few weeks to fully adjust. Be patient and give your four-legged friend time to adjust. When you’re moving, you’ll get there with our tips! 

PhaseDurationWhat to expect
Initial exploration1-2 daysYour dog may be nervous or over-excited
Amendment1-2 weeksYour dog is starting to settle down, but may still be insecure
Completely used to it3-4 weeksYour dog feels comfortable in the new environment

2. Restore routine

Try to re-establish old routines in the new home as soon as possible. This will help your dog feel safe and secure.

Has your work or daily routine changed due to the move? Then introduce the new routine gradually. Your dog will be grateful for the structure and predictability.

3. Explore the new environment

Take some time to explore the new neighborhood with your dog:

  • Take daily walks in different directions
  • Let your dog discover new smells and environments
  • Find quiet places where your dog can safely run free (if allowed)

Who knows, you might meet new neighbours or other dog owners during these walks. A great opportunity to make new contacts!

Administrative matters: don't forget your dog

With all the hustle and bustle of moving, it is important to also think about the administrative side for your dog:

  1. Update the chip registration: Please provide the new address to the database where your dog is registered.
  2. New collar with address details: Provide your dog with a collar with his new address and telephone number.
  3. Find a new vet: Are you moving far away? Find a new vet near your new home in good time.
  4. Dog tax: Check whether dog tax must be paid in your new municipality.

Finally: a new start for owner and four-legged friend

Moving with a dog can be challenging, but with the right preparation and approach, it can be a positive experience for both of you. By being considerate of your dog’s needs and being patient during the adjustment process, you’ll find that your pet will quickly feel at home in their new environment.

Our colleague and dog expert Lisa van der Meer puts it nicely: "A house becomes a home through the love that lives in it, and that certainly also applies to our four-legged friends."

Moving a dog? Patience is key

Remember that your presence and love are the most important thing for your dog. With these tips and your care, your four-legged friend will soon feel safe and happy in your new home. Enjoy this new phase in your life together!

Do you have any questions about moving with your dog? Or do you need help with your move? Please feel free to contact our team at Moving company Directly. We are here for you!

Are you about to move with your loyal four-legged friend? At Verhuisbedrijf Direct we understand that this can be an exciting time, both for you and your dog. That is why we have listed 5 essential tips for you. With our advice, you can make moving with your dog a positive experience, without unnecessary stress.

Preparation: The Key to Successful Moving with a Dog

1. Plan well in advance

Dogs are creatures of habit. They like routine and can be upset by sudden changes. That is why it is crucial to prepare your dog for the move gradually.

Start introducing moving boxes a few weeks before the big day. Just leave them in the house so your dog can get used to them. You can even make a game out of it! Hide a tasty dog biscuit in one of the boxes and let your dog look for it. This way he associates the boxes with something positive.

2. Keep old habits

In the midst of all the changes, it is important to stick to your dog's daily routines as much as possible. This will give him stability during a period of change.

Try to keep these points in mind:

  • Keep regular times for walks and meals
  • Make time for play and attention
  • Leave favorite toys and the dog bed in their familiar place for as long as possible

3. Explore the new neighborhood

Do you already know your new neighborhood? Then take your dog for a scouting tour! Take a long walk in the area around your future home. This way your four-legged friend can get used to the new smells and sounds.

Imagine your dog sniffing enthusiastically at a tree in your new street. He marks his territory and looks around proudly. It's as if he's saying: "Look, boss, this is going to be our new home!"

Moving Day: Keep Your Dog Safe and Calm

1. Create a safe place

Moving day itself can be quite hectic. How do you make sure your dog experiences as little of it as possible? We have a few options for you:

  1. Staying with a trusted person: Do you have a family member or friend that your dog loves? Maybe he could stay with them for a day.
  2. Quiet room in the old house: No place to stay found? Then set up a quiet room in your old house. Your dog can stay there while you load the moving van.
  3. Safe place in the new house: Do you already have access to your new home? Then you can set up a quiet spot for your dog there. Let your dog get used to the new environment.

2. Safe transportation

Are you taking your dog with you on moving day? Then pay attention to the following points:

  • Use a crate or seat belt for dogs
  • Provide plenty of fresh air
  • Take breaks for short walks and water
  • Never leave your dog alone in the car

Don't forget to give your dog plenty of water and to let him pee regularly. An accident in the car is the last thing you want during the move! Moving with your dog requires patience.

Arrival in the new home: gradual introduction

1. Explore the new home together

You have arrived at your new home. Exciting! But how do you let your dog get used to it calmly?

  1. Wait until most of the furniture is in place before letting your dog in.
  2. Explore the house together quietly, room by room.
  3. Give your dog time to sniff and take in the new scents.
  4. Place your dog's belongings (basket, food bowl, toys) in a quiet place.

Imagine this: your dog cautiously walks into the living room. He sniffs the new couch, looks at you for reassurance and then wags his tail cautiously. The adventure can begin! Moving with a dog is often more difficult than you think.

2. Create a trusting environment

To help your dog feel at home quickly in its new home, you can do the following:

  • Place familiar objects such as the dog's bed and favorite toys
  • Stick to the old feeding and walking routines as much as possible
  • Give extra attention and rewards for calm behavior

The first weeks: adjustment and routine

1. Give your dog time

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and your dog won’t be completely used to his new surroundings right away. Most dogs need a few weeks to fully adjust. Be patient and give your four-legged friend time to adjust. When you’re moving, you’ll get there with our tips! 

PhaseDurationWhat to expect
Initial exploration1-2 daysYour dog may be nervous or over-excited
Amendment1-2 weeksYour dog is starting to settle down, but may still be insecure
Completely used to it3-4 weeksYour dog feels comfortable in the new environment

2. Restore routine

Try to re-establish old routines in the new home as soon as possible. This will help your dog feel safe and secure.

Has your work or daily routine changed due to the move? Then introduce the new routine gradually. Your dog will be grateful for the structure and predictability.

3. Explore the new environment

Take some time to explore the new neighborhood with your dog:

  • Take daily walks in different directions
  • Let your dog discover new smells and environments
  • Find quiet places where your dog can safely run free (if allowed)

Who knows, you might meet new neighbours or other dog owners during these walks. A great opportunity to make new contacts!

Administrative matters: don't forget your dog

With all the hustle and bustle of moving, it is important to also think about the administrative side for your dog:

  1. Update the chip registration: Please provide the new address to the database where your dog is registered.
  2. New collar with address details: Provide your dog with a collar with his new address and telephone number.
  3. Find a new vet: Are you moving far away? Find a new vet near your new home in good time.
  4. Dog tax: Check whether dog tax must be paid in your new municipality.

Finally: a new start for owner and four-legged friend

Moving with a dog can be challenging, but with the right preparation and approach, it can be a positive experience for both of you. By being considerate of your dog’s needs and being patient during the adjustment process, you’ll find that your pet will quickly feel at home in their new environment.

Our colleague and dog expert Lisa van der Meer puts it nicely: "A house becomes a home through the love that lives in it, and that certainly also applies to our four-legged friends."

Moving a dog? Patience is key

Remember that your presence and love are the most important thing for your dog. With these tips and your care, your four-legged friend will soon feel safe and happy in your new home. Enjoy this new phase in your life together!

Do you have any questions about moving with your dog? Or do you need help with your move? Feel free to contact our team at Verhuisbedrijf Direct. We are here for you!

en_GB
Open chat
1
Direct contact?
Moving Company Direct
Even quicker contact to plan your move?