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Best Ways to Help Dogs w/ Major Life Change
A lot of things in my life and therefore my dog’s life are about to change as my Husband is enlisting in the military. The last time we moved, I noticed that our dog seemed to think we were abandoning him despite the fact that he has never been abandoned. I am just curious if you all have any ideas as to how I can best help him with all the traveling/changing he is about to go through. He is people/dog reactive and noise sensitive.
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5 Replies
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What a great question, @emilywyer That’s a big change coming up for both of you! First, remember to care for yourself. If you’re calm & happy, it will go a long way toward helping him feel okay. Moving and shifting routines can definitely stir up some stress for dogs, especially with his sensitivities. One of the best ways to help him feel more secure through all the transitions is by giving him a consistent, safe space. A crate is perfect for this, if you’ve previously conditioned him to feel comfy in it. Think of it as his own little retreat—whether it’s a cozy bed, familiar toys, or even something with your scent, like an old shirt. No matter where you end up, having that constant place of comfort can really help him settle.
Routines are another key thing. While so much will be changing, try to keep some core parts of his day the same—whether that’s mealtime, walks, or training sessions. Even when everything around him is different, those little pockets of predictability can give him a sense of stability.
Since he’s noise-sensitive, you might want to consider slowly introducing him to the kinds of new sounds he’ll be hearing, like traffic or any other noises typical in military areas. Pairing those sounds with something positive, like treats or toys, can help desensitize him and build his confidence. Speaking of confidence, keep engaging him with activities that mentally challenge him. Things like nose work or problem-solving games can go a long way toward reducing anxiety, especially when he’s feeling overwhelmed.
You might also look into calming tools like a Thundershirt or supplements, which can help take the edge off when things get particularly stressful. And when you arrive at new places, give him plenty of time to explore and sniff around. Letting him adjust at his own pace can make a huge difference in how comfortable he feels.
It sounds like you’re already really in tune with his needs. With your thoughtfulness and care, he’s got the best advocate to help him through this big life change! Good luck with your move!
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This was so super helpful, thank you so much. We have a couple months before his dad leaves for basic training, so I’m going to start incorporating these things now this way he’s familiar with the routine now and I’m not adding them during and after the change!
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Wonderful plan, @emilywyer ! Happy to help! Keep us posted on how everything goes. ???? ????
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Hi! I have an anxious poodle and 2 Berniedoodles. We move around all the time. We shift from 2 places in Florida back to Virginia and also North Carolina at times. Catherine’s suggestions are great. Keep the routines and structure and your pup should adjust fairly quickly! Also if pup is treat motivated, throw treats when you arrive at new place coming into house and around inside just to start out with positive associations!
‘The main thing is you are there!
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Great advice, @JCongdon – starting off a new place with an easy win like that! And your comment, “the main thing is that you are there” made me think this: Plan on being there most of the time for the first week or two as you settle in. In other words, when you have to leave the house, be sure the dog is in their secure crate with comfort items or can’t somehow panic, trying to go with you. Consider doing some short departure skills training after your first few days if your dog is upset by the move and feeling clingy.
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