Moving is a big life change, and while it’s often exciting for humans, it can be extremely stressful for our four-legged family members. Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity, so packing up and relocating can be overwhelming without the right planning.
Whether you're moving across town or across the country, these 10 essential tips will serve as a handy checklist for moving with a dog will help ensure a smooth, stress-free transition for both you and your pup. From pre-move planning to post-move settling, we’ve got everything covered.
1. Schedule a Vet Visit Before the Move
Before you hit the road, take your dog to the vet for a check-up. Make sure all vaccinations are up to date, get a copy of their medical records, and ask about ways to help reduce anxiety during the move. If you're moving to a new city or state, your vet might also offer recommendations for a new veterinarian in your area.
Don’t forget your dog’s new doctor. Locate the emergency vet hospital closest to your new home and research local vet clinics to find one that’s taking new patients. Your current vet might have a recommendation for you. Once you’ve made your choice, arrange to have your dog’s records transferred over. It’s also a good idea to fill any necessary prescriptions for your dog before you move, so you don’t have to worry about that while you’re unpacking and settling in. Finally, if you’re moving to another country, the USDA is a great source of information about dog entry requirements for different destinations.
2. Update ID Tags and Microchip Information
In the chaos of moving, the risk of your dog escaping or getting lost increases. Make sure their collar tags have your current cell phone number, and that your pup’s microchip is registered with your new address and contact info. This small step can make a big difference if your dog accidentally gets out.
3. Maintain Their Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, and sticking to their regular routine—feeding, walks, playtime, and bedtime—can bring a sense of stability amid the moving madness. Even if you're surrounded by boxes, take time to keep your pup's day as normal as possible.
Suitcases and boxes are an obvious sign to your dog that something is up. When you can, wait to pack until your dog is out for a walk or taking a nap. Alternatively, you can keep your dog occupied with a food-stuffed chew toy or an edible toy so they’re distracted and can associate the packing with something positive. And remember, your dog can read your mood. Try to stay upbeat and positive even though you may be tense to help your dog stay calm and relaxed about the changes going on in the house.
4. Introduce Packing Slowly
Avoid a last-minute packing frenzy. Dogs can become anxious seeing their environment change so quickly. Start packing gradually over a few weeks, allowing your dog to get used to boxes and moving supplies without being overwhelmed.
Pro Tip: Let your dog sniff and explore the boxes. It makes the process feel less foreign and scary.
5. Pack a Doggy Essentials Bag
Before moving day, prepare a separate bag for your pup with everything they’ll need for the first few days in the new home. Include:
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Food and water
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Bowls
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Medications
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Favorite toys
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Blankets or dog bed
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Waste bags
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Leash and harness
- Emergency grooming products that don't require water!
Having their favorite items close by can ease your dog’s transition and make your move much more streamlined for all involved.
6. Choose Pet-Friendly Transportation
Whether you're driving or flying, make sure your travel plans are dog-friendly. Use a secure, well-ventilated crate or dog seatbelt harness in the car, and take frequent breaks on long drives for water, bathroom breaks, and walks.
If you’re flying, research airline policies for pet travel, and book a direct flight whenever possible to reduce stress.
Remember: Flying with a dog requires careful planning and preparation. To ensure a smooth and safe journey, book flights early, choose direct routes, and familiarize your dog with their carrier. Prior to the trip, a vet visit is crucial for health checks and necessary documentation. Consider a calming collar or medication (if recommended by your vet) to help manage anxiety during the flight.
Airlines often have limited space for pets, and weight limits for flying in-cabin, so book your flight and your dog's spot as early as possible.
7. Keep Them Safe on Moving Day
On the day of the move, things get hectic. With doors opening and closing and people moving things in and out, it’s easy for pets to slip out unnoticed.
Best options:
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Have a trusted friend or family member watch your dog
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Board them at a familiar kennel
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Keep them in a quiet, closed-off room with their favorite toys and bedding
This keeps them safe—and helps movers work more efficiently, too.
8. Introduce Your New Home Gradually
Once you arrive, give your pup time to adjust. Let them explore one room at a time, starting with their designated area where their bed, food, and toys are set up.
Keep the vibe calm and positive—reward curiosity with treats and praise. Slowly expand their access to the rest of the house as they become more comfortable.
9. Explore the New Neighborhood Together
Start building new memories together by taking walks around your new neighborhood. Stick to short, low-key outings at first. Pay attention to:
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Dog-friendly parks
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Walking paths
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Pet-friendly cafes or shops
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Local leash laws and pet ordinances
- Look for a new dog groomer if necessary and form a relationship with them prior to your dog needing an appointment
Getting outside together also helps your dog burn off nervous energy and feel more grounded in the new environment. You never know who you might meet!
10. Be Patient and Show Extra Love
Your dog might seem anxious, clingy, or out of sorts for a few days or even weeks after the move. This is completely normal. Give them time, space, and lots of love. Reassure them with cuddles, play, and positive reinforcement. Eventually, their confidence will return.
It can be normal for dogs to have accidents or regress in a new environment. Don't punish them, but rather, clean up the mess and take them out frequently. Continue with your dog's established routines as much as possible, even in the new home and use positive reinforcement whenever possible.
Final Thoughts: Moving With a Dog Doesn’t Have to Be Ruff
Moving with a dog takes planning, patience, and a whole lot of love. But by following these tips and staying in tune with your pup’s emotions, you’ll make the transition easier for both of you.
With the right preparation, your new house or apartment will quickly become your new home sweet home—tail wags and all!
WHO IS PRIDE+GROOM?
PRIDE+GROOM was born because a group of New York City dog lovers wanted the same level of grooming products for their dogs that they themselves enjoyed. They looked (hard) but nothing was up to snuff. Or sniff. Like so many, we love our families and take pride in our homes, and we consider our pets to be integral parts of those entities. That said, we could not find an effective way to coif them that was on par with the way we tended to our children, our homes, or ourselves. These beloved pets are allowed on the furniture and in our beds, and yet even when fresh from the groomer, we knew they did not smell or feel as good as they could.
With the development of our coat-specific shampoos, conditioner and deodorizing spray, we think we found just the way to say thanks for being the best and the sweetest MVP of the house. Skin and coat health is very important to us.
PRIDE+GROOM is the first dog grooming brand launched under a beauty platform, with formulas made in a clean beauty and scent lab. We know beauty is not only skin deep. We did a ton of research to create the entire line. Each product is formulated with its own unique blend of essential oils sourced from around the world.
IN DOG WE TRUST
Shop our entire line: www.prideandgroom.com
