Tips for New Homeowners on How to Help the Family Dog Adjust
Moving into a new home is an exciting experience. It can, however, bring equal measures of joyful anticipation and fearful anxiety. We all develop strong connections to our residences; where we live to a large extent colors who we are. Because of this connection, moving is one of the biggest decisions a person can make.
Much like their human caretakers, dogs share a bond with their home. The connection may even be stronger, since a dog’s house represents a vast part of his universe. For many dog owners, however, the needs of their pets are often put aside or minimized. Others carefully consider their dogs when choosing a new house, but worry about pet behavioral changes that might follow a move. Here are some ideas on how to evaluate and consider your dog’s part in a new housing decision, and how to make a new move a smooth experience for you and your pup.
Photo Credit: Pixabay
Give your dog a seat at the design table
According to some, dogs are too often left out of the new-house decision. Sure, you might base some of your considerations on your pet, but a lot of that planning is based on your convenience as a dog owner. Think about how much time your dog spends in and around the house, and craft a home solution that addresses every family member.
This perception of pets as an afterthought has prompted several companies to develop home improvement ideas and even whole-house building plans that bring your dog’s needs up to an equal footing with the rest of the family. Think about where your dog will ideally be while you are away at work. Does the new house have a suitable room for placing a crate or dog bed? A dog’s room that faces the front windows, for example, might encourage excessive barking. While you’re thinking about your dog’s needs, don’t forget outside spaces.
Fencing
A fenced-in yard is great for both you and your dog. It provides freedom to roam and makes taking the dog out a lot easier. Fences are also barriers. They keep your dog safe from the dangers of a busy road or getting lost. They also keep other dogs from wandering into your yard.
If your dream home’s yard is not fenced in, consider making the investment in your dog’s safety and well-being. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of installing new chain-link fencing in Phoenix ranges from $1,018 to $2,105. This is a relatively small investment that will pay dividends every day for you and your dog.
Get a four-legged perspective of the move
Experts agree that in order to fully appreciate how a new place will affect your dog, you need to get on his level. Think beyond installing a fence and where you’ll put the dog bed. For example, you’ll want to remove toxic plants and give him lots of chew toys. Some of the best solutions are simple and don’t necessarily involve expensive remodeling projects.
Easing the transition
There are many things you can do as a homeowner to ease a dog’s potentially stressful transition into a new home, including:
- Keep a consistent routine. Dogs are creatures of habit, so maintain your normal walk, feeding, and bedtime schedules.
- Keep things the same. Resist the temptation to buy new dog beds and blankets to match your new décor. Your dog needs the comfort that the old ones will provide.
- Identity all of the risks of the new house. You brought your dog into the “decision-making” process and even got on all fours to see the new house through their eyes. Now, use that info and minimize problems.
Lastly, and importantly, keep your own stress levels and anxieties in check. Dogs are intuitive and can sense and mirror owner’s emotions. So, relax. When including your pet in the planning process, you will identify problems and steps to resolve them and be able to enjoy your new home with your happy dog.
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