Jan 25, 20213 min
Updated: Mar 30, 2023
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Tip 1: Make sure your microchip and tags are up to date with your new location.
The Department of Veterinary Preventative Medicine at The Ohio State University conducted a study that shows that microchipping your dog increases an owner's odd of reuniting with your lost dog (Lord et al, J.A.V.M.A, July 15, 2009). A microchipped dog is reunited with its owners at a 52.2% rate, whereas a non-microchipped dog is returned at a 21.9% rate (A.V.M.A blog, 2021).
Tip 2: Bring an item that your dog would recognize its smell from your old home.
Dogs have a 10,000% stronger sense of smell than humans (Tyson, 2012). When you move into your new house, it is important for your dog to feel confident and comfortable during this new chapter. By bringing furniture and belongings from your old home, this new place will smell like home and allow your dog to equate this new house into a new home quickly.
Tip 3: Be moved entirely in before introducing your dog to this new environment.
To mitigate the shock of moving, you should be almost moved in entirely when introducing your dog into this new environment. This will show your dog that this is your new home by showcasing furniture and objects from the other property.
Tip 4: After moving in, go on a walk with your dog around the block. When it is time to turn back to your new house, verbally remind your dog that you're going home.
It is important to reaffirm that your new property is your home continuously. When you continually call your new place" home," you train your dog to equate home with a new location.