# Moving With Dogs: How to Keep Your Pet Calm and Safe During the Move By Jennifer Patchen | 2023-10-24 Moving is stressful enough when you're sorting through boxes, coordinating timelines, and managing the mountain of logistics that come with changing homes. Now add a dog to the equation — or two, or three — and the complexity multiplies fast. Here's the thing most moving guides won't tell you: moving anxiety in dogs is real, common, and often misunderstood. Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity. When their environment starts disappearing into cardboard boxes and their human is radiating stress, they notice. According to the [ASPCA](https://www.aspca.org/helping-people-pets/shelter-intake-and-surrender/pet-statistics), approximately 6.3 million companion animals enter U.S. shelters every year — and "moving" consistently ranks among the top reasons for pet surrender. It doesn't have to be that way. I'm Rachel Torrence, a licensed real estate broker with over 14 years of experience helping families buy and sell homes across the country. In that time, I've helped hundreds of dog owners navigate every stage of a move — from finding pet-friendly housing with breed-weight restrictions that actually work, to handing over the keys on [possession day](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/buyer-possession-date) with a calm, happy pup in tow. This guide covers everything: what to do before the move, how to survive moving day, and — the part most articles skip entirely — how to help your dog adjust to a new home once you're there. Whether you're moving with one senior Chihuahua or a household full of pets, dogs and cats included, this is your complete playbook. [Get your offer](#) ## Before the Move: Preparing Your Dog for a Big Change The weeks leading up to your move are your biggest opportunity to set your dog up for success. Dogs can't understand what's happening, but they can be gradually prepared for the disruption. Start early — ideally four to six weeks before moving day. ### Update Your Dog's ID, Microchip, and Vet Records This is the single most important thing you can do before a move, and it's the step pet owners most often forget until it's too late. - **Update your dog's microchip registration** with your new address and phone number. The [American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)](https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/microchips-reunite-pets-families/microchipping-faq) reports that microchipped dogs are returned to their owners at more than twice the rate of non-microchipped dogs. During a move, when doors are propped open and routines are disrupted, the risk of escape spikes. - **Request a copy of your dog's complete veterinary records.** If you're moving to a new city or state, you'll need these to establish care with a new vet. Ask for vaccination records, medication histories, and any behavioral notes. - **Update your dog's ID tags** with your new address and a current phone number. Consider adding a temporary tag with both your old and new addresses during the transition period. - **Research veterinary clinics and emergency animal hospitals** near your new home. Know where the closest 24-hour emergency vet is before you need one. If you're moving across state lines, check whether your new state requires specific vaccinations or health certificates. Some states require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) issued within 10 days of travel. ### How to Find Pet-Friendly Housing (From a Broker's Perspective) As a broker, I can tell you that finding pet-friendly housing is one of the most underestimated challenges in any move. Buyers often assume that owning a home means pet restrictions disappear — and that's simply not the case. **"I've seen buyers fall in love with a property only to discover at the HOA document review stage that their breed is restricted or there's a two-pet maximum,"** I tell my clients. **"Always — always — read the CC&Rs before you get emotionally attached to a listing."** Here's what to investigate: - **HOA pet policies.** Many homeowners associations restrict specific breeds (commonly Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Dobermans, and wolf hybrids), impose weight limits (often 25–50 lbs), or cap the number of pets per household. These restrictions can apply even if you own the home outright. - **Municipal breed-specific legislation (BSL).** Some cities and counties ban or restrict certain breeds entirely. Research local ordinances before committing to a location. - **Rental pet policies.** If you're renting, expect pet deposits ($200–$500 is typical), monthly pet rent ($25–$75 per pet), and breed/weight restrictions. Get everything in writing. - **Yard and fencing.** If your dog needs outdoor space, evaluate fencing condition during the [home inspection](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/home-inspection-checklist-for-buyers). Fence repair or installation is a cost you want to factor in early. - **Neighborhood factors.** Proximity to dog parks, walking trails, sidewalk availability, and traffic patterns all affect daily life with a dog. I always recommend clients drive the neighborhood at different times of day. **"When I work with dog owners, I treat the pet policy check as seriously as the title search,"** I advise. **"Discovering a breed restriction after you've gone \[under contract\](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/under-contract-meaning) is a nightmare I've helped clients avoid dozens of times."** If you're currently [preparing your house for sale](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/how-to-prepare-your-house-for-sale), remember that pet odors, visible pet damage, and yard wear from dogs can affect [your home's value](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/factors-that-influence-home-value). Deep-clean carpets, repair any scratched doors or trim, and neutralize odors before listing. ### Desensitize Your Dog to Packing and Boxes One of the most effective ways to keep your dog calm during the move starts weeks before the truck arrives. Dogs are sensitive to environmental changes, and a house suddenly filled with cardboard boxes, packing tape sounds, and shifting furniture can trigger anxiety. **Start gradual desensitization 3–4 weeks before your move:** - **Week 1:** Bring a few empty boxes into your home and leave them in common areas. Let your dog sniff and investigate at their own pace. Reward calm behavior around the boxes with treats. - **Week 2:** Begin packing non-essential items in rooms your dog doesn't frequently use. Keep your dog's primary spaces (where they sleep, eat, and relax) unchanged for as long as possible. - **Week 3:** Gradually pack more visible areas. Maintain your dog's routine — same feeding times, same walk schedule, same bedtime. Routine is your dog's anchor. - **Week 4 (final week):** Pack your dog's belongings last. Their bed, toys, food bowls, and crate should be among the very last items boxed up and the very first items unpacked. **Pro tip:** Practice short car rides if your dog isn't accustomed to travel, especially if you're facing a long-distance move. Build up from 10-minute drives to longer trips over several weeks. ### Tips for Moving with Large Dogs Moving with a Great Dane presents a fundamentally different set of challenges than moving with a Maltese. If you have a large or giant breed dog, plan for these specifics: **Transportation logistics:** - **Vehicle setup.** Large dogs need adequate space. If you're driving, invest in a crash-tested vehicle crate sized for your dog, or use a secured harness system. SUVs and minivans work best — a ramp or pet step helps dogs with joint issues load safely. - **Airline restrictions.** Most major U.S. airlines have stopped accepting large dogs in cargo due to safety concerns. If you must fly, research pet transport services that specialize in large breeds. Expect to pay $1,000–$3,000+ for ground transport and significantly more for air. - **Crate sizing.** Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For a move, err on the side of a slightly larger crate than you'd use at home. **Housing considerations:** - Many rental properties and HOAs impose weight limits — commonly 25, 50, or 75 pounds. **"I always tell my large-dog clients to filter for pet policies first,"** I share. **"It's heartbreaking to find the perfect home and then discover your 90-pound Lab doesn't qualify."** - Some homeowner's insurance policies restrict or exclude coverage for certain large breeds. Verify with your insurer before closing. **Moving-day management:** - Large dogs in a chaotic environment create safety risks for movers. A 100-pound dog underfoot while furniture is being carried is a liability issue. Plan for your large dog to be out of the house entirely on moving day (see the next section for options). ### Create a Moving-Day Plan for Multiple Pets If you're moving with pets — dogs and cats, multiple dogs, or any combination — the logistics multiply with each animal. Each pet has different stress responses, space needs, and safety requirements. **For multi-dog households:** - Assess each dog's stress tolerance individually. Your confident, social dog may handle moving-day chaos fine, while your anxious rescue may need to be off-site entirely. - Transport dogs in separate crates or secured areas of the vehicle. Stressed dogs can redirect anxiety onto each other, and a fight in a moving car is dangerous. - At the new home, introduce dogs to the space individually before allowing them together. Hierarchy dynamics can shift in a new environment. **For mixed-pet households (dogs and cats, dogs and small animals):** - Keep cats and small animals in a separate, secured room during the move — ideally one that's already been packed and can serve as a quiet zone with a closed door and a sign that says "DO NOT OPEN — PET INSIDE." - Transport different species separately. A stressed dog and a stressed cat in the same vehicle is a recipe for escalation. - At the new home, set up separate zones for each species before allowing any interaction. **"The biggest mistake I see multi-pet families make is trying to manage everything simultaneously,"** I note. **"Stagger your pets' introductions to the new home just like you'd stagger your move-in tasks. One thing at a time."** ## Moving Day: How to Keep Your Dog Calm and Safe Moving day is the most chaotic part of the process — doors propped open, strangers carrying furniture, vehicles running in the driveway. For your dog, it's sensory overload. Your primary goal today is safety first, comfort second. ### Set Up a Safe Room or Arrange Dog Care You have two good options for managing your dog on moving day. Choose based on your dog's temperament: **Option A: The safe room (for calm, crate-trained dogs)** - Choose a room that's already been packed and emptied — a bathroom or spare bedroom works well. - Set up your dog's crate, water bowl, a favorite toy, and a piece of clothing that smells like you. - Post a clear sign on the door: **"DOG INSIDE — DO NOT OPEN."** - Check on your dog every 30–60 minutes. Offer a quick walk and a treat. - This room should be the last one the movers access. **Option B: Off-site care (for anxious dogs or chaotic moves)** - Drop your dog off with a trusted friend, family member, or at doggy daycare. - If using a boarding facility, book well in advance — and do a trial overnight stay beforehand so it's not your dog's first time. - This option is strongly recommended for large dogs, reactive dogs, dogs with known anxiety, and multi-pet households. **"Should I board my dog on moving day?"** is one of the most common questions I hear. My answer: if you have any doubt about your dog's ability to handle the chaos, yes. It's not a failure — it's smart planning. ### How to Keep Your Dog Calm During the Move Even with a safe room or off-site care, the days surrounding the move will be disruptive for your dog. Here's a tiered approach to keeping your dog calm: **Environmental strategies (start here):** - **Exercise before the chaos begins.** A long walk or vigorous play session before the movers arrive can work wonders. A tired dog is a calmer dog. - **Maintain feeding and walking schedules** as closely as possible, even on moving day. If your dog eats at 7 AM, feed them at 7 AM. - **Use calming music or white noise** in the safe room to mask the sounds of moving. - **Keep your energy in check.** Dogs are remarkably attuned to their owner's emotional state. If you're frantic, your dog will be too. **Calming aids (for moderate anxiety):** - **Pheromone products.** Adaptil (DAP) diffusers, sprays, and collars release a synthetic version of the calming pheromone mother dogs produce. Plug in a diffuser in your dog's safe room 24–48 hours before moving day. - **Anxiety wraps.** Products like the ThunderShirt apply gentle, constant pressure that can reduce anxiety in some dogs — similar to swaddling an infant. - **Calming supplements.** Look for products containing L-theanine, melatonin, or chamomile. Start these a few days before the move to assess your dog's response. **Veterinary support (for severe anxiety):** - If your dog has a history of severe anxiety, destructive behavior, or panic during environmental changes, talk to your vet well before moving day. Prescription options like trazodone or gabapentin can be used situationally for acute stress events. - **Do not sedate your dog without veterinary guidance.** Over-the-counter sedatives can have unpredictable effects, especially combined with the physical stress of travel. > **Vet Insight:** The [American Kennel Club](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/travel-anxiety-in-dogs/) recommends consulting your veterinarian at least 2–4 weeks before a major move to discuss anxiety management options. This gives you time for a trial dose to ensure your dog tolerates the medication well before the high-stakes day. ### Transporting Your Dog to the New Home How you transport your dog depends on the distance and your dog's size, temperament, and travel experience. **For local moves (under 2 hours):** - Transport your dog in your personal vehicle — not the moving truck. - Use a secured crate or a crash-tested dog seatbelt harness. - Bring water, a few treats, poop bags, and your dog's leash. - If possible, transport your dog after the movers have loaded the old house but before they've fully unloaded the new one. This gives you a window to set up your dog's safe room at the new home. **For long-distance moves (cross-country, multi-day drives):** - Plan your route around pet-friendly hotels. Apps like BringFido can help identify options along your route. - Stop every 2–3 hours for bathroom breaks, water, and a short walk. - Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car — temperatures inside a vehicle can rise [20 degrees in just 10 minutes](https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/pets-vehicles), according to the AVMA. - Pack a "moving-day bag" for your dog (see the checklist section below for a full packing list). - Carry a copy of your dog's veterinary records, vaccination certificates, and any required health certificates for interstate travel. **For flying:** - Small dogs (under ~20 lbs with carrier) can typically fly in-cabin. Book early — most airlines limit the number of in-cabin pets per flight. - Large dogs face limited options. Research professional pet transport companies. Get quotes from at least three providers and verify their USDA licensing. Once you arrive at your new home, resist the urge to let your dog explore freely. Instead, take them directly to their pre-set-up safe room. The full house tour comes later. ## After the Move: How to Help Your Dog Adjust to a New Home This is where most moving-with-dogs guides end — and it's exactly where the hardest part begins. The boxes are delivered, the movers are gone, and now your dog is standing in an unfamiliar space that smells like strangers, wondering what happened to their world. Helping your dog adjust to a new home takes patience, consistency, and a clear strategy. Most dogs begin to settle within 2–4 weeks, but full adjustment — where your dog is truly relaxed and confident in the new space — can take [1 to 3 months](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/moving-with-your-dog/), according to canine behaviorists. ### Setting Up a "Home Base" Room Before you let your dog roam the entire house, designate one room as their "home base." This is the room where your dog will eat, sleep, and spend most of their time for the first several days. **The ideal home base room:** - Is relatively quiet and away from high-traffic areas - Has a door that closes - Contains your dog's crate, bed, food and water bowls, and familiar toys - Smells like your dog — use unwashed bedding or blankets from your previous home **Why this works:** A whole new house is overwhelming. One room is manageable. Your dog can build confidence in a small, controlled space and then gradually expand their territory. **"I always tell clients: unpack your dog's room first, your bedroom second, and the kitchen third,"** I advise. **"Your dog's comfort sets the tone for the whole household."** ### Re-establishing Routine in Your New Home Routine is the single most powerful tool you have for helping your dog adjust. Dogs don't understand that you've moved to a better neighborhood with a bigger yard and more closet space. They understand that dinner happens at 6 PM, walks happen at 7 AM, and bedtime means the same blanket in the same crate. **In the first week:** - Feed your dog at the exact same times you did before the move. - Walk the same duration and at the same times of day, even if your new route is completely different. - Maintain bedtime rituals — same crate, same commands, same settling routine. - Avoid introducing new foods, treats, or supplements during the adjustment period. Stress can cause gastrointestinal upset, and new food compounds the problem. **In weeks 2–4:** - Gradually introduce your dog to more rooms in the house. Walk them through on leash, letting them sniff and explore at their own pace. - Begin exploring the new neighborhood together. Vary your walking routes to help your dog build a mental map of the area. - If you have a yard, supervise all outdoor time until you've verified the fence is secure and your dog isn't stress-digging or attempting to escape. ### Signs Your Dog Is Adjusting Well (and Signs They're Not) **Positive signs (you're on track):** - Eating and drinking normally - Sleeping through the night - Showing interest in exploring the new space (sniffing, tail relaxed) - Initiating play - Settling into favorite spots (choosing a preferred napping location, a window to watch from) - Responding to commands normally **Warning signs (your dog needs more support):** - Persistent loss of appetite lasting more than 48 hours - Excessive panting, drooling, or pacing with no physical cause - Destructive behavior (chewing, scratching at doors, digging at floors) - House-training regression — previously house-trained dogs having accidents - Withdrawal or hiding - Excessive barking, whining, or howling, especially when you leave - Aggression that wasn't present before If warning signs persist beyond 2–3 weeks, consult your veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist. What looks like "still adjusting" can sometimes be clinical anxiety that benefits from professional intervention. ## Recognizing and Managing Moving Anxiety in Dogs Moving anxiety in dogs isn't just a cute internet phrase — it's a genuine behavioral response to environmental upheaval. Understanding what it looks like and how to address it can make the difference between a rocky transition and a smooth one. ### Common Signs of Stress and Anxiety in Dogs During a Move Dogs communicate stress through behavior, not words. Learn to read the signals: **Physical signs:** - Excessive panting (when not hot or exercised) - Trembling or shaking - Drooling more than usual - Dilated pupils - Tucked tail, flattened ears - Shedding more than normal (stress shedding is real) **Behavioral signs:** - Pacing or restlessness — can't seem to settle - Destructive chewing or scratching, particularly near exit points (doors, windows) - Loss of appetite or refusing favorite treats - House-training regression - Clinginess — following you from room to room, unable to be alone - Hiding or retreating to small spaces - Excessive licking (of themselves, surfaces, or the air) - Changes in sleep patterns — sleeping much more or much less than usual **Context matters.** Any one of these behaviors in isolation could mean many things. But a cluster of these signs appearing during the packing/moving/settling period strongly suggests moving-related stress. ### Calming Strategies: From Natural Remedies to Vet Support Think of anxiety management as a ladder. Start at the bottom and escalate only as needed. **Tier 1 — Environmental and behavioral (try first):** - Maximize exercise. A daily 45–60-minute walk plus play sessions can significantly reduce anxiety behaviors. Physical exertion metabolizes stress hormones. - Create predictability. Same schedule, same cues, same rules. Predictability is anti-anxiety medication for dogs. - Provide mental enrichment. Puzzle feeders, Kong toys stuffed with frozen peanut butter, sniff mats, and training sessions give your dog's brain something productive to focus on. - Use the "home base" room strategy outlined above. **Tier 2 — Over-the-counter calming aids (for moderate anxiety):** - **Adaptil (DAP) pheromone products** — diffusers, collars, and sprays. Clinically studied and widely recommended by veterinarians. - **ThunderShirt or anxiety wraps** — pressure-based calming. Works well for some dogs, less so for others. Worth trying. - **Calming supplements** — products containing L-theanine, casein (Zylkene), or melatonin. Look for the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) quality seal. - **Calming music** — Studies from the [Scottish SPCA and University of Glasgow](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031938416309921) found that soft rock and reggae had the most positive effect on dog stress behaviors. **Tier 3 — Veterinary intervention (for severe or persistent anxiety):** - Trazodone, gabapentin, and sileo (dexmedetomidine gel) are commonly prescribed for situational anxiety in dogs. - For dogs with pre-existing anxiety disorders, your vet may recommend starting or adjusting daily medications (fluoxetine, sertraline) well in advance of the move. - **Always consult your vet before giving any medication.** Dosing is weight-dependent, and some medications interact with supplements. > **Vet Insight:** According to a [2020 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior](https://www.journalvetbehavior.com/), environmental changes — including moving to a new home — are among the top three triggers for anxiety-related behavioral problems in dogs. Early intervention produces better outcomes than waiting to see if the dog "adjusts on their own." ## Moving-with-Dogs Checklist: A Week-by-Week Timeline Use this chronological checklist to stay organized. Print it, bookmark it, or screenshot it — future-you will be grateful. ### 4–6 Weeks Before the Move - \[ \] Research pet policies at your new home (HOA rules, breed/weight restrictions, landlord policies) - \[ \] Schedule a vet visit: update vaccinations, request records, discuss anxiety management - \[ \] Update microchip registration with new address and phone number - \[ \] Order new ID tags with your new address - \[ \] Research veterinary clinics and emergency animal hospitals near your new home - \[ \] Begin desensitizing your dog to boxes and packing sounds - \[ \] If flying, research airline pet policies or professional pet transport services - \[ \] If your dog isn't crate-trained, begin crate training now ### 2–3 Weeks Before the Move - \[ \] Begin packing non-essential rooms (keep your dog's primary spaces intact) - \[ \] Practice car rides if your dog isn't a confident traveler - \[ \] Start Adaptil diffuser or calming supplements to establish baseline effect - \[ \] Book boarding, pet-sitting, or daycare for moving day (if using off-site care) - \[ \] Confirm pet-friendly hotels along your route (for long-distance moves) - \[ \] Begin gradually introducing any vet-prescribed anxiety medication ### 1 Week Before the Move - \[ \] Pack your dog's "moving-day bag" (see below) - \[ \] Verify your dog's safe room plan for moving day - \[ \] Confirm all pet care arrangements - \[ \] Maintain normal routine as strictly as possible - \[ \] Do a final sweep for pet-toxic items in the new home (if accessible): pest traps, chemical residues, unsecured pools ### Moving Day - \[ \] Exercise your dog thoroughly in the morning - \[ \] Feed on normal schedule - \[ \] Set up safe room or transport dog to off-site care - \[ \] Post "DOG INSIDE" sign on safe room door - \[ \] Check on your dog every 30–60 minutes (if using safe room) - \[ \] At new home: set up "home base" room BEFORE bringing your dog inside - \[ \] Transport your dog to the new home in your personal vehicle - \[ \] Take your dog directly to their home base room - \[ \] Offer water, a treat, and calm reassurance ### First Week in the New Home - \[ \] Maintain exact feeding and walking schedule from your previous home - \[ \] Keep your dog in the home base room when unsupervised - \[ \] Gradually introduce your dog to other rooms (on leash) - \[ \] Supervise all yard time until you've verified fence security - \[ \] Watch for signs of stress or anxiety (see behavioral checklist above) - \[ \] Unpack your dog's belongings first — familiar smells matter - \[ \] Locate and visit your new vet for a wellness check if needed ### Your Dog's Moving-Day Bag — What to Pack - \[ \] Food (enough for 3+ days) and portable food/water bowls - \[ \] Bottled water (especially for long-distance moves — sudden water changes can cause GI upset) - \[ \] Leash, collar with updated ID tags, and harness - \[ \] Poop bags - \[ \] Favorite toy and an unwashed blanket or piece of your clothing - \[ \] Crate or carrier - \[ \] Any medications or calming supplements - \[ \] Veterinary records and vaccination certificates - \[ \] Paper towels and enzymatic cleaner (for accidents) - \[ \] Recent photo of your dog (in case they get lost during the move) [Get your offer](#) ## Frequently Asked Questions About Moving with Dogs ### How long does it take a dog to adjust to a new home? Most dogs begin settling into a new routine within **2 to 4 weeks**, but full behavioral adjustment — where your dog is truly relaxed, confident, and comfortable — can take **1 to 3 months**. Puppies and naturally adaptable breeds may adjust faster, while senior dogs, rescue dogs with prior trauma, and dogs with pre-existing anxiety may take longer. Consistent routine, patience, and a designated "home base" room accelerate the process. ### Should I board my dog on moving day? For many dogs, yes — especially if your dog is anxious, reactive, very large, or if you're managing a complicated move with movers in and out of the house all day. Boarding or daycare removes your dog from the chaos entirely and lets you focus on the logistics. If boarding feels like too much, having a trusted friend or family member take your dog for the day works just as well. ### Can moving cause depression in dogs? Yes. Dogs can experience a form of situational depression triggered by major environmental changes, including moving. Signs include lethargy, loss of interest in food or play, withdrawal, and changes in sleep patterns. According to the [PDSA](https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/depression-in-dogs), most dogs recover with consistent routine, exercise, and engagement from their owner. If depressive behaviors persist beyond 2–3 weeks, consult your veterinarian. ### How do I find pet-friendly movers? Ask moving companies directly whether they have experience with pet-owning households and whether they have any pet policies. Some movers won't enter a home with an unsecured dog for liability reasons. The more important step is managing your dog separately on moving day so the movers can work unimpeded. For long-distance moves, professional pet transport companies (USDA-licensed) specialize in safely relocating animals independently of household goods. ### What should I pack in a moving-day bag for my dog? Pack food (3+ days' worth), portable bowls, water, a leash and collar with updated ID tags, poop bags, medications, a favorite toy, an unwashed blanket from your old home, veterinary records, enzymatic cleaner, paper towels, and a recent photo of your dog. Think of it as a dog-specific go-bag that stays in your personal vehicle — not on the moving truck. ### How do I help my dog feel safe in a new house at night? Keep your dog's crate or bed in your bedroom for the first few nights. Your presence is the most powerful calming tool available. Use the same bedding from your previous home so it smells familiar. Maintain the same bedtime routine — same commands, same sequence, same time. A white noise machine can help mask unfamiliar sounds from the new neighborhood. If your dog is restless, a brief bathroom break and calm reassurance (without excessive coddling) usually helps. ### Is it better to move with a dog in summer or winter? Neither season is ideal — both present risks. Summer moves expose dogs to heat exhaustion during transport and at the new home if HVAC isn't immediately functional. Winter moves in cold climates create hazards for dogs walking on treated sidewalks (de-icing chemicals are toxic) and getting in and out of vehicles. The [best time to move](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/best-time-to-sell-a-house) often depends more on your real estate timeline than the season. Regardless of timing, plan for temperature control during transport --- *Originally published at [https://www.opendoor.com/articles/moving-with-dogs](https://www.opendoor.com/articles/moving-with-dogs)*