National Dog Day: 7 tips for the perfect move with your pooch

Drastic changes to their environment and routine can be disorienting for dogs — which is why, on National Dog Day (26 August), Barratt Developments South Wales is sharing its top tips for a smooth move for all the family.

Richard Lawson, Sales Director at Barratt Developments South Wales, said: “Moving to a new home should be an exciting and stress-free time for everyone — including our four-legged friends.

“As a team of dog lovers, and with 65-years’ experience helping match people and pooches with their dream homes, we’ve compiled our tried-and-tested tips for making sure your dog feels right at home, too.”

Trying to pack up and clean before the removal vans arrive can feel like a never-ending task. However, it’s important to try and stick to your dog’s routine as closely as possible during this time — with regular walks and consistent mealtimes (ideally out of their usual bowl). Dogs are clever, and they’ll know that something’s going on. But these small familiarities will help keep them happy and calm in anticipation of the move.

No matter how hard you try to keep activity to a minimum, there will be lots of coming and going during the moving process, which could prove overwhelming for your dog.

One option could be to take your dog to stay with a trusted family member or friend — also meaning you can concentrate fully on the job at hand. Alternatively, ensure that they have a quiet room in the house to themselves, with their favourite toys and bed to escape the noise.

Once you start setting up in your new home, it’s important to designate a permanent space for your furry friend — complete with a bed and feeding area. That way, they’ll have a safe space in this unfamiliar setting from the get-go, which they can return to at any point.

And it can be tempting to buy everything brand-new when moving home, but where possible, it’s a good idea to keep your dog’s bed and toys from your previous home, for comfort. Their keen sense of smell will recognise the scent and help them associate your new house with home.

One of the biggest problems dog owners face when moving house is that their dog tries to escape and return to their old home — risking becoming lost in an unfamiliar area. To avoid this happening, make sure that all windows and doors are closed until they’ve become familiar with your new home and garden.

And don’t forget to update your dog’s microchip with your new address as soon as possible!

It’s important not to leave your dog unattended for long periods of time while they’re still getting used to their new home. If possible, work from home, or ask a trusted family member or neighbour to pop in and check on them.

Having company will ensure that your dog feels comfortable and safe (plus, it’s the perfect excuse for you to stay in and enjoy your new home, if you can!)

Introduce your dog to their new neighbourhood gradually — starting with short walks around your new home and avoiding overcrowded areas at first, so that they don’t become overstimulated with new sights and sounds.

Once they become more confident in their new surroundings, you can increase the distance and start varying your routes — allowing you both to get to know the open green spaces on your doorstep and meet fellow dogs and their owners.

Moving home is a big change for your dog, and it may take time for them to adjust to their new environment — so celebrate their small victories by rewarding good behaviour.

Most importantly, make sure to give them lots of extra love and affection during the move — it’ll help you both feel more at home!

To find the ideal new build home in South Wales for you and your pooch, visit: www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/wales/south-wales/