Mr. Goodpuppy and the Move

Dog on moving dayDogs, like humans, may need time to adjust when making a major change such as a move. Without advance thought and preparation, when you move, your formerly "perfect" dog might develop behavior problems such as destruction, house soiling, etc. You would be wise to help prevent behavior problems resulting from a move by anticipating its impact on your dog.

Before the Move:

1. Teach your dog commands so that you can tell your dog what you want him to do and establish some control;
2. Teach him to eliminate "on command" in a certain area outside (then he will more readily eliminate outside at his new home when you use the familiar command);
3. Establish a "safe spot" (dog bed) that is portable and can be taken to a new home.
4. If possible, take your dog to the new home for short periods of time, and
5. Play with him in your new home when you take him there.
6. Introduce him to his new elimination spot at the new home.
7. While you pack up your old home, spend  time playing with your dog. Pack some of his old toys in a special box and keep that box with you. After you’re in your new home, open his toy box and let him find his toys. Also, play with him while you unpack.

After the Move:

1. Limit your dog's freedom. Rather than confining your dog, close off nonsocial rooms.
2. Gradually give him more space. Only as he becomes comfortable and trustworthy in the area you have given him, give him more space until, eventually, he is in every part of your home.\
3. Try to minimize your dog's stress by only leaving him for short periods of time before you leave him for an extended period.

The Happy Ending

By understanding how your dog must adjust to a new home and helping him in the ways described, you can make sure you and Mr. Goodpuppy’s move is a dream-come-true for everyone.