Dogs are one of the most common pets in the world. Over 200 million dogs live in our homes and occupy many living spaces. Getting a new puppy to adjust to your home can be challenging, so we’re here to help you make it easier with some simple tips.

What to Look for When Looking for An Animal-Friendly New Home

While we know that being a homeowner and a pet owner are two separate things, when somebody is taking into consideration both they must know sometimes it will cost a pretty penny. Therefore, splurging for extra commodities for your pet may end up being the best thing for your dog to adjust to the new environment. Being open to purchasing a home may be the best option to have a pet friendly environment for your family.

1. A Pet-Friendly Neighborhood

If you’re buying a house in a new neighborhood, it’s essential to know if the area is pet friendly. The areas with more pets than others are usually more expensive and less safe for dogs and kids. Choose a different neighborhood or city if your prospective home doesn’t allow pets.

2. Other Dogs in The Neighborhood

If you’re buying a home in an older neighborhood, you should look into the number of other dogs in the area. If there are many dogs in the community, it may not be a good place for your new puppy.

3. Dog-Friendly Landscaping

The scenery you plan to let your dog roam around plays a massive part in the dog’s happiness. While many people think they are helping their dogs when they say, “Go play outside!” this isn’t always the case. If you want your pet to be happy, look out for small spaces and loose rocks that can injure your dog or prevent them from getting away from larger animals. No two dogs are alike, so make sure that the space you have available for them is both fun and safe for them.

4. Traffic

If you want your dog to be safe while they are out, you should ensure there is no traffic in the neighborhood. This includes cars and trucks going by as well as people walking on the sidewalk. This will also be an issue if there’s a school or day-care right next door.

5. Pet Services

When you’re buying a home, you should make sure there is a pet service or vet close by. This means that when your dog needs help, it can get it right away.

6. Dog Parks

If you have a new puppy, you should make sure there is a dog park near your home. This will make it easy for your pet to exercise and socialize with other dogs of similar age while making the neighborhood safer. You don’t want your dog to be the only one in the neighborhood without any friends.

7. Fence

An option for most pet owners is a fence. This can be either a tall backyard fence or a fenced-in yard. We don’t want your dog to get run over while they are enjoying the great outdoors! The important thing is that your dog can’t break out of it and go running off into traffic.

Things You Can Buy to Help Your Dog Adjust to A New Place

If you’re moving, there are a few things you can buy to make your dog’s transition more manageable. These are all readily available online or at pet stores.

1. A Dog Bed

Dogs like to have their own home and space, so if they have a place, they feel “safe,” and they will love it more than anything else. This is also a great way to keep them off your furniture and beds!

2. A Crate

You should get a crate for your dog if you’re nervous about leaving food or things out in the open. This is a safe place for your pet to stay in while you’re away and will help them feel comfortable and secure.

3. Toys

When a dog is stressed or nervous, it will often chew on furniture or other items to relieve the stress. You can get some tremendously safe, fun toys for your dog to have some fun while you’re gone!

4. Leash

If your dog isn’t always leashed when out walking, you should get a leash that attaches to the collar and one large enough for him to run around with. This will make it easier for you to keep your pet safe and prevent them from running into cars or off the sidewalk.

How To Calm a Dog’s Moving Anxiety

1. Exercise

This is the first thing that people want their dogs to do when they are nervous about moving. While it seems common sense, it’s still essential to ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise before the move so they will be tired and less likely to cause trouble.

2. Limit Stressful Food

Something you should do right before you move is limit your dog’s intake of any food that will cause them stress and water intake. This is especially important if you’re taking a plane! If you leave food out while packing or moving things, they might overeat and get sick on the trip.

3. Stay Calm

Dogs are very good at picking up on the emotions of their owners, so one of the best things you can do is help them stay calm while you unpack and get settled in your new home. Try to make a move as fun as possible by getting them a new toy or buying a new bed to sleep on. You’ll both be happier, and they won’t remember it as such a big deal!

4. Keep Them in The Know

If you’re taking any trips while packing, let your dog ride with you, so they feel like they’re part of the process instead of being left behind. This could be especially important if you’re moving across town since the dog will wonder why it took so long if he didn’t get to come for the ride.

What To Do If a Dog Does Not Adjust to A New Home Well

1. Get Help

If you’re having trouble getting your dog to adjust to the new home, you can try a few things. The first is to get them a dog walker or pet sitter so they can have some company while you’re away at work. This helps them feel more secure and less lonely while they adjust to the new place.

2. Make It Fun

If your pet is still lonely and bored, consider a fun activity for both of you, such as training or learning tricks together to make their day more exciting and enjoyable. You can also use the time to do household chores together and let them see that the place will be cleaner when you’re away.

3. Give Them Space

If your dog is still acting anxious and making noise or soiling in the house, you should give them some space while they adjust to their new home. You don’t want to make them feel trapped just because you’re gone, so keep things as welcoming and calm as possible.

4. Let Them Go Outside

This is your pet’s favorite part of the day, but if they’re not comfortable yet, let them stay inside while getting used to the new surroundings.

Moving with a dog is difficult, but it can be done. Keep these tips in mind when it comes to moving with a dog and avoid any problems so you can relax in your new home, knowing your dog is having fun and getting everything, they need.

Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for Lending Pad

Photo credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/A-YUeXZ1rq8

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