This article is contributed by guest writer, Cindy Aldridge.

Tips For Dog Owners Buying A New Home

There are many good reasons for moving. Maybe you have a great job opportunity far away, or maybe you’re just looking for a change of scenery. Buying a new home is never a walk in the park, but it can be very exciting as well.

But your dog doesn’t get that it can be exciting. Dogs don’t understand moving; they won’t even know why you are packing up. Instead, they can just get anxious and confused. Thankfully, there are tips to help you move with your dog successfully, starting with what to look for in your new home.

Photo Credit: Lepale via Pixabay

What To Look For In Your New Home

Before you put down any money on a new place, you need to make sure that your dog is even welcome there. Some communities put restrictions on dogs, as do counties and cities. These are typically bans on breeds associated with violence, but a homeowner’s association could ban all pet dogs. And as The Balance explains, don’t ignore those association bylaws or you could be in a lot of trouble.

Once you’re clear that your dog is welcome there, Realtor.com recommends assessing the home layout next. Of course, this includes making sure your home is big enough; a large, active dog will be miserable in a tiny apartment. But you also want to see how the yard is (including any fence) and if the new home has stairs your dog cannot use.

Preparing Your Dog

You found the right place for both of you, and you’re getting closer to moving day. Besides packing and hiring movers, you need to worry about your dog. Packing and moving can be stressful for you both.

Before you start packing, make a plan to pack slowly and leave the dog’s stuff for last. This way, your dog won’t worry about the sudden and drastic change to their home environment. (This also makes it easier on you.)

As for moving day itself, one of the best things you can do is board your dog for that day. Whether that means dropping them off at a friend’s house or a formal kennel, this has many benefits:

• The dog won’t be literally under foot as people carry heavy boxes.
• Movers or friends won’t have to deal with an anxious dog.
• You can focus on moving and cleaning without worrying about how your dog is doing.

Acclimating To The New Place

You did it. After a lot of work, you managed to get everything packed and moved into your new home. Before you celebrate too much, you want to spend some time helping your dog acclimate to the new home. You know why you moved, but your dog does not. Some tips for acclimating include:

• As much as you can, stick to your dog’s normal schedule for walks, meals, and so on.
• Start unpacking by taking out your dog’s bowls, toys, and belongings first.
• Recreate your old home’s environment if you can. If your dog has food and water bowls in the kitchen, put them in the new kitchen.
• Spend time doing what they love, such as walks, play, or cuddling.

Make The Move Successful

Buying a new place and moving in will always be stressful to some degree. Remember that your dog depends on you to help feel safe, so you owe your furry friend some assistance. Be careful when picking out your new home, pack slowly, and help your dog acclimate to the new space. This way, your dog will come to love your new home as much as you do.