Everyday care

Moving house with a dog: a checklist

Moving day is busy, with doors left open and everything unfamiliar. A bit of planning keeps your dog safe and helps them settle. This checklist uses advice from PDSA, GOV.UK and Dogs Trust.

Before the move

  1. Update the microchip

    Tell your microchip database your new address. By law you must keep the details up to date. See how to update microchip details.

  2. Get a new tag

    Your dog's tag must show your name and address in public, so order one with the new address.

  3. Get them used to one room

    Gradually move their bed, bowls and toys into one room so they're comfortable staying there on moving day.

  4. Consider kennels

    If your dog is nervous or struggles with change, PDSA suggests booking kennels for the move. Check their vaccinations are up to date and allow time to find somewhere you trust.

On moving day

  • Keep your dog in one secure room, away from open doors
  • Don't feed a big meal close to travelling. PDSA suggests small amounts through the day instead
  • At the new house, set up one room with their bed, toys and something that smells of you

Settling in

Make sure the house and garden are secure before you let your dog out. Check fences and gates for gaps: see how to stop your dog escaping the garden.

Dogs Trust lists fear, including of unfamiliar people and smells, among the reasons dogs run off. Keep your dog on a lead in the new area until you're confident they'll come back when called. If your dog does go missing, check your old address too, as the lost dog guide explains.

Update PawTrak in seconds

Unlike an engraved tag, you can change the contact details on your dog's PawTrak profile online yourself, at no cost. Keep your name and address tag updated as well.

  • Any phone camera reads the QR plate. No app needed.
  • The finder can message you and share their location.
  • Free profile with every collar.

Shop collars · See what a finder sees

Sources

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