Moving with Dogs: The Complete 2026 Guide (Based on Real Experiences)

You've finally found your dream home. The excitement is real... until you look at your dog and realize they have absolutely no idea their entire world is about to change. You've just been hit with the reality of moving with dogs.

Moving with a dog isn't just about finding pet-friendly housing (though that's definitely part of it). It's about helping your furry best friend navigate one of the most disorienting experiences of their life while you're simultaneously juggling a million logistics.

We surveyed over 6,000 Sniffspot users who've recently moved with their dogs, and they shared everything. The good, the bad, the "my dog ate through the moving box," and most importantly, what actually worked.

Whether you're a Gen Z urbanite relocating for your first big job, a millennial moving to accommodate your growing family, or a Baby Boomer downsizing for retirement, this guide has insights specifically for your situation.

Let's make this move as smooth as possible for you and your pup. 🐕📦

Moving with Dogs: Quick Overview

How Did We Compile These Stats?

The Sniffspot community is full of dog lovers who've been through the moving trenches. We collected over 6,000 responses about moving with dogs in 2024-2025, covering:

• Demographics and generational trends
• Origin and destination locations
• Biggest challenges faced
• What worked (and what didn't)
• Things they wish they'd known before moving

This isn't generic advice from someone who's never packed a U-Haul with a anxious Border Collie in the front seat. This is real data from real dog owners who've actually done this.

Who's Moving with Dogs? The Demographics

Let's start with who's actually packing up and relocating with their pups.

Moving with Dogs by Generation:

• Millennials: 44% (Leading the pack by a significant margin)
• Gen Z: 27% (A quarter of all dog-related moves)
• Gen X/Baby Boomers: 29% (Moving less frequently but still significant)

Why are millennials moving most? They're in that prime life stage: career changes, growing families, buying first homes, relocating for better opportunities. Meanwhile, Gen Z is just starting their moving journeys (first apartments, post-college relocations), and older generations are more settled but still relocating for retirement, downsizing, or life changes.

Source: Sniffspot Community Moving Report 2024

What Size Dogs Are People Moving?

Size matters when you're planning a move. A 10-pound Chihuahua in a carrier is way different than a 90-pound German Shepherd in the back seat for a 12-hour drive.

The good news? Dog owners of all sizes have successfully relocated. Whether you're driving cross-country or flying internationally, large dogs, medium dogs, and small dogs have all made the journey to new homes.

Source: Sniffspot Moving with Dogs Survey

Size considerations:

• Small dogs (under 25 lbs): Easier to fly with (can often go in-cabin), more housing options available, easier to manage during chaos
• Medium dogs (25-60 lbs): Goldilocks zone; most versatile for different moving scenarios
• Large dogs (60+ lbs): Require more planning for transport, may face more housing restrictions, but totally doable with preparation

🏡 Need a safe space for your dog near your new home? Find private dog parks on Sniffspot in your destination city before you even arrive!

Where Dog Owners Are Relocating (By Generation)

Moving patterns differ significantly depending on your generation. Let's break down where dog owners are moving from and where they're heading.

Where Are Dog Owners Leaving?

Across all generations, the departure patterns look pretty similar:

Top regions people are leaving (with dogs):

• West Coast (WA, OR, CA, AK): 20-26%
• Mid East Coast (SC, NC, VA, WV, MD, DE): 13-15%
• South East (TN, MS, AL, GA, FL): 11-15%
• Mountain West (ID, WY, NV, UT, CO, AZ, NM): 9-10%

High cost of living, housing affordability, and lifestyle changes are driving dog owners to relocate from these areas. The West Coast sees the highest outbound migration, likely due to housing costs and seeking more space for dogs.

Where Gen Z (with Dogs) Is Moving

Source: Sniffspot Dog Moving Survey

Gen Z Top Destinations:

• Mid East Coast: 18% (Affordable cities like Raleigh, Charlotte, Richmond)
• West Coast: 14% (Still drawn to major metros despite costs)
• South Central (TX, OK, LA, AR): 13% (Texas is booming for young professionals)
• Midwest (MI, OH, IN, KY): 13% (Lower cost of living, remote work opportunities)

Why these destinations? Gen Z is chasing affordability and career opportunities, often in secondary cities that offer urban amenities without San Francisco or NYC price tags. They're also the most likely generation to embrace remote work, opening up previously "too far from the office" locations.

Where Millennials (with Dogs) Are Moving

Source: Sniffspot Moving with Dogs Survey

Millennial Top Destinations:

• West Coast: 16% (Still strong pull despite exodus narratives)
• NY/PA: 13% (NY: 8%; PA: 5% - Splitting between city and suburbs)
• Mid East Coast: 12%
• South East: 12%

The millennial pattern: This generation is torn between coasts, often balancing career opportunities with family needs and dog-friendly living. Many are moving to suburban areas around major metros rather than into city centers. They want proximity to urban jobs but need yards for their dogs.

Where Gen X/Baby Boomers (with Dogs) Are Moving

Source: Sniffspot Moving with Dogs Survey

Gen X/Boomer Top Destinations:

• West Coast: 20% (Retirement havens, better weather)
• Mountain West: 15% (Wide open spaces, outdoor lifestyle)
• East Coast (ME, NH, VT, MA, RI, CT, NJ): 10%
• Central (KS, NE, MO, IL): 9%

The older generation pattern: More dispersed across the country, often prioritizing lifestyle over career. Retirement moves toward warmer climates, outdoor recreation, and lower density areas where dogs have room to roam. They're also more likely to consider accessibility and proximity to family.

Common thread across all generations: The West Coast maintains strong appeal despite high costs, though younger generations are more willing to explore emerging cities and less traditional destinations.

Biggest Challenges When Moving with Dogs

Let's get real about what actually sucks when moving with a dog. Our survey respondents identified their top struggles, and the results were remarkably consistent across age groups.

Source: Sniffspot Moving with Dogs Survey

1. Stress on Dog During the Move (31-33%)

This was the #1 concern across every generation. Your dog doesn't understand why their familiar home is disappearing into boxes, why strangers are carrying furniture out the door, or why they're suddenly in a car for eight hours.

Signs your dog is stressed during the move:

• Excessive panting or drooling
• Pacing and restlessness
• Loss of appetite
• Hiding or seeking constant comfort
• Accidents in the house (even if they're house-trained)
• Excessive barking or whining
• Destructive behavior

Why this is so challenging: You're already stressed about the logistics of moving, and now you're watching your best friend struggle with anxiety. Plus, you have limited time and attention to dedicate to comforting them when you're supposed to be coordinating movers or driving a U-Haul.

2. Finding Dog-Friendly Housing (19-27%)

This was particularly challenging for Gen Z (27%) and millennials (23%), likely because they're more often renting rather than buying. Finding a place that:

• Allows dogs at all
• Doesn't have breed restrictions (goodbye, Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds)
• Doesn't have weight limits (many places cap at 25-50 lbs)
• Has reasonable pet deposits and monthly pet rent
• Actually has dog-friendly amenities (not just says they do)

The rental reality: Even in 2026, breed discrimination is alive and well in rental housing. Large dogs face particular challenges, and certain breeds are blacklisted regardless of temperament or training.

3. Dog Adapting to New Home (12-15%)

Once you're moved in, the work isn't over. Your dog needs to:

• Learn the layout of the new space
• Figure out where to potty in the new yard
• Adjust to new sounds, smells, and neighbors
• Possibly adapt to a completely different environment (city to country, apartment to house with yard, etc.)
• Rebuild their sense of security and "home"

Some dogs adjust in days. Others take weeks or even months to fully settle in.

4. Finding Normal Routine and Stability (13-14%)

Dogs thrive on routine. Same feeding times, same walk schedule, same play times. Moving destroys all of that, and rebuilding normalcy while you're also trying to unpack, maybe start a new job, or enroll kids in new schools is genuinely difficult.

What makes this hard: You can't establish routine until you're unpacked enough to function, but your dog needs routine immediately to feel secure. It's a catch-22 that requires creative problem-solving.

🎾 Moving to a new city? Browse private dog parks in your new area and book your first visit before you even arrive. Instant routine established!

Expert Tips from Dog Owners Who've Been There

Forget generic advice. Here's what actually worked for thousands of dog owners who recently moved:

1. Make a Plan BEFORE You Move (13% Emphasized This)

Even if you're normally a "wing it" person, don't do that with a dog move. Plan ahead for:

Transportation logistics:

• How is your dog traveling? (Car, plane, train?)
• If driving, where will you stop for breaks?
• What's your backup plan if your dog gets car sick?
• Who's responsible for the dog during the actual moving day?
• Do you need to find a dog-friendly hotel?

Day-of logistics:

• Where will your dog be while movers load/unload?
• When will they get meals and potty breaks?
• What happens if you get delayed?

New home setup:

• Where is your dog's safe space in the new house?
• What gets unpacked first for the dog?
• How will you dog-proof the new space?

Real owner quote: "Plan. Ahead. Create an idea of what you want your life to look like with your dogs and figure out a way to make it a reality." - Kinsley M.

2. Be Patient, Flexible, and Calm (12% Emphasized This)

Your dog will pick up on your stress. If you're frantic, they'll be frantic. If you can maintain some semblance of calm, it helps them settle faster.

Expect some behavioral regression:

• House-trained dogs might have accidents
• Dogs who normally sleep through the night might wake you up
• Destructive behavior might appear
• Clinginess or separation anxiety might temporarily worsen

This is all normal. Don't punish; just redirect and be patient while they adjust.

Real owner quotes:

"Be patient the first few months! It takes more time for them to settle in than you may realize." - E. E.

"Be patient, expect some stress, give them time to decompress." - Avery S.

3. Visit the New Place Before Moving (If Possible) (4%)

This isn't always feasible, but if your new home is within driving distance and you have access before move-in day, take your dog for a visit.

What to do during pre-move visits:

• Let them explore the new yard
• Walk the neighborhood together
• Bring treats and make it a positive experience
• Let them sniff and investigate at their own pace
• Take photos of the layout so you can plan furniture placement to minimize disruption

Real owner quotes:

"Take them to the property before you start moving stuff over, allow [them] to play and get treats, [give] positive association in a new space." - Bill T.

"Take them to walk the neighborhood a few times before you move there." - R. T.

4. Use a Sitter or Daycare on Moving Day (4%)

Moving day is chaos. Doors are propped open, strangers are in and out, furniture is being carried through rooms, and everyone is stressed. This is prime time for:

• Your dog escaping out an open door
• Your dog getting underfoot and potentially injured
• Your dog being terrified and trying to hide in increasingly creative places
• You being unable to focus on the move because you're worried about the dog

Solution: Board your dog for the day, hire a pet sitter, or ask a friend to dog-sit. Your dog gets a fun day away from the chaos, and you can focus on the move.

Important: Make sure whoever watches your dog has current emergency contact info and knows your new address in case something goes wrong.

Real owner quote:

"Have a day-of move plan for the dog to either be with family or at daycare so they are out of the way and do not escape while you are occupied getting the truck loaded. Once everything is loaded into the new house, go pick the dog up from wherever they spent the day." - E.

5. Stick to Routine as Much as Possible (6%)

Amidst the chaos, maintain your dog's schedule as closely as you can:

• Feed at the same times
• Walk at the same times
• Keep bedtime routines consistent
• Maintain training sessions (even if they're shorter)
• Preserve play time

Why this matters: Routine equals predictability equals security for dogs. When everything else is changing, keeping meal times and walk schedules consistent provides an anchor.

Real owner quote:

"Re-establish a routine as quickly as possible to reassure them that they are home!" - H. A.

6. Use a Crate (4%)

Even if you don't normally crate your dog, having one available during the move can be invaluable:

• During packing: Safe space away from boxes and chaos
• Moving day: Secure location while doors are open
• In transit: Safety in the car or plane
• New home: Familiar den while adjusting

Make sure your dog is comfortable with the crate before moving day (don't introduce it for the first time during the most stressful event of their life).

Real owner quotes:

"Have an empty room or set up a crate for them to stay in while moving things in and out of the house." - Annie P.

"Keep your dog in a place they are comfy, like their crate at home." - Elizabeth H.

7. Don't Be Afraid to Use Medication (4%)

For dogs with serious anxiety, talk to your vet about:

• Anti-anxiety medication: Helps reduce stress during the move
• Motion sickness medication: Essential for car-sick dogs on long drives
• Calming supplements: Melatonin, CBD, or other natural options

When to consider medication:

• Your dog has a history of severe anxiety
• Long car rides make them sick
• They're prone to panic in unfamiliar situations
• Past moves have been traumatic

Real owner quote:

"Don't be afraid to reach out to your veterinary hospital for medication management of moving related stress and anxiety." - Caitlin T.

Step-by-Step Moving Timeline with Your Dog

Let's break moving with your dog into manageable phases:

6-8 Weeks Before Moving: Research and Planning

Find housing: Start your pet-friendly housing search early. Use filters for dog-friendly, check breed restrictions, and read reviews from other dog owners.

Research your new area:

• Find veterinary clinics and emergency animal hospitals
• Locate nearby dog parks and walking trails (or private Sniffspots)
• Identify pet supply stores
• Research local leash laws and pet regulations
• Check if your new city requires dog licenses

Schedule vet appointment:

• Get health certificates if moving out of state or internationally
• Update vaccinations
• Refill any medications (get extra to avoid running out during transition)
• Get copies of medical records
• Ask for vet recommendations in your new area

Update identification:

• Order new ID tag with new address and phone number
• Update microchip registration with new contact info
• Take recent, clear photos of your dog for ID purposes

2-4 Weeks Before Moving: Preparation and Acclimation

Prepare your dog for transport:

• If flying: Acclimate dog to travel crate (feed meals inside, create positive associations)
• If driving long distance: Practice longer car rides
• Consider calming aids: pheromone sprays, Thundershirt, anxiety wraps

Gather moving supplies for your dog:

• Sturdy leash and backup leash
• Collar with ID tags (old address until you move, then switch)
• Travel food and water bowls
• At least one week's worth of regular food (don't change food during moving)
• Medications and supplements
• Favorite toys and comfort items
• Dog first aid kit
• Waste bags
• Cleaning supplies for accidents

Arrange moving day care:

• Book daycare or pet sitter for moving day
• Confirm they have emergency contact info
• Provide them with supplies for the day

Pack dog's belongings LAST:

• Keep them accessible for immediate unpacking
• Mark the box clearly
• Include: food, bowls, toys, bed, crate, leash, treats

Moving Week: Execution Phase

Maintain routine religiously and create a safe zone:

• Same feeding times
• Same walk schedule
• Extra attention and reassurance
• Designate one room that stays relatively unchanged
• Keep dog's bed, toys, and food close

Moving day protocol:

• Dog goes to sitter/daycare early (before movers arrive)
• Do final walkthrough to ensure all doors/gates are secure
• Pick up dog only after everything is loaded and house is empty

First Week in New Home: Adjustment Phase

Day 1: Controlled introduction:

• Dog-proof new home before bringing dog inside (check for escape routes, hazards, toxic plants)
• Bring dog in on leash for first exploration
• Show them where food, water, and potty areas are located
• Set up their bed and familiar items immediately
• Keep initial exploration limited to 1-2 rooms

Days 2-3: Gradual expansion:

• Slowly introduce more rooms
• Supervise constantly (watch for marking behavior)
• Keep exterior doors closed or baby-gated
• Begin establishing new potty routine

Days 4-7: Routine establishment:

• Lock in feeding times
• Establish new walk routes
• Begin exploring neighborhood together
• Introduce them to any new neighbors with dogs
• Start finding "their spots" (favorite sunbeam, preferred sleeping location, etc.)

Week 1 priority: Don't leave dog alone for extended periods. If you must leave, start with very short absences and gradually increase duration.

What to Do First Week in Your New Home

Your first week sets the tone for how quickly your dog adjusts. Here's your detailed game plan:

Immediate Priorities (First 24 Hours)

1. Create the safe space: Set up one room as your dog's "home base" before you bring them inside. This should include: their bed or crate, food and water bowls, favorite toys, something that smells like your old home.

2. Controlled first introduction: Don't just open the door and let them loose. Instead: bring them in on a leash slowly and walk them room to room. Let them sniff at their own pace, and use treats to create positive associations.

3. Establish potty routine immediately: Your dog doesn't know where they're supposed to go in this new place. Take them to the designated potty spot every 2-3 hours initially, and heavily reward when they go.

What if you moved from house with yard to apartment? You'll need to teach leash potty behavior if your dog isn't used to it. This might involve some regression, so be patient and treat it like potty training a puppy again.

Days 2-7: Building Comfort

1. Stick to schedule religiously: Your dog's routine is their security blanket. Keep meal times, walks, and bedtime routines consistent.

2. Gradual neighborhood introduction: Don't overwhelm them with a 3-mile walk on day one. Instead start with short walks around the block, let them sniff extensively (this is how they "read" their new territory), and gradually extend walk distances. If your dog is reactive, note locations of neighborhood dogs and plan routes accordingly.

3. Watch for behavioral changes: Common adjustment behaviors include clinginess, regression in trainings, changes in appetite, and sleep disruption. You should worry if your dog stops eating for over 24 hours, becomes lethargic, or shows signs of severe distress. This would warrant a call to your vet.

Special Considerations for Different Living Situations

Moved from quiet to busy area?

City sounds can be overwhelming. Use white noise machines, keep windows closed initially, and gradually acclimate them to street noise.

Moved from apartment to house with yard?

Your dog might not understand they can go outside anytime now. Take them out frequently and teach them to signal when they need to go (scratching at door, ringing bell, etc.).

Moved from solo living to roommates/family?

Introduce new household members slowly, establish house rules everyone follows, and give your dog a "no-people" safe space they can retreat to.

Moved with other pets arriving later?

Let your dog fully settle (1-2 weeks) before introducing additional pets. This prevents territorial behavior and gives them ownership of the space first.

🏡 Need to find your dog's new favorite spots before you even move? Search private dog parks in your new city and bookmark a few to try during your first week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving with Dogs

📚 Additional Resources:

• How to Handle Separation Anxiety in Dogs
• How to Train Your Dog Not to Run Away
• Tips and Tricks for Traveling with Your Dog

Make Moving with Dogs Less Stressful with Sniffspot

One of the biggest challenges after moving? Your dog doesn't know where they can safely exercise, play, and be a dog in your new area. Public dog parks might be overwhelming with new dogs and new social dynamics. Your new neighborhood is unfamiliar and potentially not secure.

Moving is hard enough without worrying about where your dog can safely burn off energy and stress. Take the guesswork out of finding dog-friendly spaces in your new home.

🏡 Find private dog parks in your new city and book your first visit today!

Final Thoughts: You've Got This

Moving with a dog adds a layer of complexity to an already complicated process, but thousands of dog owners successfully relocate with their pups every year. Your dog is incredibly adaptable. With your support, patience, and a solid plan, they'll settle into your new home and it will become their home too.

Whether you're moving across town or across the country, whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a massive Great Dane, you can make this transition smooth for everyone involved.

Good luck with your move! 🐾📦🏡

This guide was created using survey data from 6,000+ Sniffspot community members who moved with their dogs in 2024-2025. All statistics, trends, and quotes come directly from real dog owners who've been through the moving process.