Moving home with your dog
Whether you're moving into a new house or flat, read our checklist to prepare your pooch.
Moving house can be a big change for our four-legged friends. If you’re on the move, here’s our expert advice to make the experience as smooth and stress free as possible for your dog.
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Before moving day
- Get a dog sitter - if you can, ask a friend, family member, or pet sitter to look after your dog while you move. The noise, disruption, and unfamiliar activity could be confusing or stressful for them.
- Update their details - update your dog’s microchip details and ID tag before moving day so that if they get lost, your contact information is correct, and you can be contacted quickly.
- Find a vet - if you’re moving to a new area, it's a good idea to find a local vet and register your dog before you move.
- Plan for travel sickness - if your dog gets travel sick or anxious on journeys, ask your vet about options to help them feel more comfortable.
Moving day
- Stick to a routine - if your dog is with you on the day, try to stick to their usual routine as much as possible.
- Stay hydrated - make sure your dog has access to lots of fresh water.
- Pack your dog’s things last – leave their bedding, water bowl, and favourite toys unpacked until the last minute because they will be comforting for your dog.
- Travel safely - if you're travelling by car, use a dog guard, crate or seatbelt harness to keep them safe. Never leave your dog alone in a parked car, especially in warm weather. If your dog gets travel sick, try to avoid feeding them for three to four hours before setting off. For longer journeys, plan regular stops so they can stretch their legs, have a toilet break, and enjoy a sniff around.
- When you arrive - set up a quiet space for your dog with their bed, toys and water. This gives them a safe place to relax while boxes and furniture are being moved. If other people are helping you move, let them know where your dog is, so they don't accidentally scare them or leave the door open.
- Check your garden - if you have a garden, make sure it is secure so that your dog cannot escape, and that there are no plants or flowers that could be toxic.
Helping your dog settle into their new home
Every dog settles into a new home at their own pace. Some dogs will start exploring straight away, while others may need a little more time. Be patient and give your dog lots of praise and reassurance while they get used to new smells and textures. Try to keep their routine the same for the first few weeks. Regular walks, mealtimes and bedtimes can help them feel at home more quickly.
Use gentle structure and clear, consistent cues from the start — like where they rest, when they go out, and how they get rewards. Predictability helps build confidence.
If your dog is struggling with the change, consider speaking to your vet about calming supplements to help them settle in.
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