Do dogs get sad when you move out? Tips and Tricks

DO DOGS GET DEPRESSED WHEN THEY MOVE HOUSE?

Although there’s no evidence that dogs feel depression exactly the same way humans do, the executive director of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, Bonnie Beaver, told WebMD’s pet specialists that a form of depression has been noted in dogs. It’s especially after a major change has taken place – a new baby arrives, a new pet is introduced or moving to a new house. In most cases, the dog shows much the same symptoms as stress (above), but might also avoid you or lick their paws excessively.

BEFORE MOVING HOUSE

Although there’s no scientific proof that dogs feel stress the way we do, vets and owners have noted for years that there are common behaviours in dogs that are under known stress. And sometimes those same symptoms crop up after a big event in life – like moving home.

What is proven, though, is that your dog picks up on your stress. So the best thing you can do for your pets (and family!) when moving house is to be kind to yourself.

If you can make the move as smooth as possible for you, it could be easier for them. So try and plan ahead of time. Maybe make use of your mover’s packing service – so you can focus on your family on moving day. And try and create a calm space when planning your move.

  • Keep the same routine in the days before the move
  • Give them lots of love, attention and reassurance
  • Keep them separate in a quiet room on moving day
  • Or arrange for them to stay with a friend while packing
  • Make sure they’re chipped and registered with the vet in the new area
  • Leave packing their things for last, and do it calmly (if they’re with you during the move)
  • Do dogs get sad when you move out?

    First Time Left Alone

    Even the most easy-going dog can suddenly develop a case of dog separation anxiety after moving to a new home. That’s why leaving them alone in their new home for the first time must be handled with care.

    The first time you leave them alone, plan to only be away for a short time. Time your departure at a point in your dog’s routine when they are most likely to sleep or rest. Associate your departure from the house with something positive for your dog, like giving them a treat or access to their favorite toy.

    Perhaps most importantly, don’t make your departure a long, drawn-out process. Say goodbye to your dog, give them their food or treat, and then leave. Always remember that your dog is highly adept at picking up on and acting out your feelings and emotions, and if they see you are feeling worried or anxious about leaving them alone, they will too.

    Do Dogs Really Miss Us When We Leave the House?

    This article will teach you how to ease your dog’s anxiety when moving to a new home.

    Phobias in dogs happen when they are around a specific situation such as a thunderstorm or fireworks. This can occur every time they are around this situation. Anxiety, on the other hand, is when a dog thinks that a situation may happen, such as separation anxiety when you put your shoes on, take your coat out and get ready to leave.

    Fear, on the other hand, is when a dog has an instinct that something bad is about to happen. Their bodies prepare for freeze, fight or flight. This is an instinct in most dogs and a big part of how they survive. Most fears, anxieties and phobias develop during a dog’s life, especially after they are one year old. Some anxious feelings do not develop until the dog is of senior age and has other health problems that play a part in their anxiety.

    Dogs often pick up signs of stress from their human friends, so be sure to be calm around your dog. Along with managing your own stress level, here are some tips on keeping your dog calm: