How To Tell If Your Dog Is Comfortable In Your New Home

Moving can be stressful for you and your dog, and it's sometimes difficult to tell if your dog is settling in well at your new home. Here are some signs to help you determine how your dog is doing:

Independence

If your dog wasn't always at your side before, but now seems to be a constant presence, it can be a sign that he isn't comfortable in your new home. Even if you have a clingy dog who enjoys being in the same room as you, he will occasionally need to go to other rooms to eat or stretch his legs. A dog that suddenly becomes less independent is looking to you for protection and comfort. However, if he is eager to explore or to relax away from you occasionally, it means that he feels a sense of belonging and understands that he's safe. The more casual he becomes about going into other parts of the house, the more he feels like it's his home and he won't be surprised by something new or be scolded for looking around.

Confidence

A dog that is full of energy and eager to play is a dog that is comfortable with her surroundings. Observe your dog to see if she's casual and carefree, doing things like initiating play with her toys or wanting to run around the backyard. If, instead, she's panting and skittish, or acting differently than she normally does, that is a sign that she's anxious or stressed. Refusing to play, barking and growling, or reluctance to go on walks can all be signs that she isn't settled in yet and is still nervous about her new surroundings. As she becomes more confident, she will return to her old self and be eager to get some of her energy out.

Body Language

While body language can be difficult for some people, there are a few obvious signs that a dog is happy. If your dog is making eye contact with you, that signals that they aren't anxious and are trying to bond with you, which might increase right after a move. Rolling over for belly scratches is also a sign of comfort, as a dog's stomach is its weak spot and they only show it to people and in places they trust. Keep an eye out for significant negative signs as well. If the dog is cowering when someone comes near them, hiding from you for several hours, or huddling up and trying not to move, that indicates that they're insecure in their new surroundings. As your dog becomes more used to their new home, their body language will become more relaxed and casual.