Five life events that affect your dog and how to help them

Life’s milestones—like moving house, welcoming a baby, or family changes—are big times not just for us but for our dogs too. Each event can bring stress, excitement, or anxiety for our canine companions, depending on their temperament and our handling of these changes. Understanding these impacts helps you support your dog’s wellbeing every step of the way.

This article outlines five major life events in your life that also affect your dog, explaining why and offering practical, compassionate advice to ease the transition and maintain your dog’s emotional health.

Moving home

Moving house is stressful for any family member, and dogs feel the upheaval deeply. In the UK, following 2025 best practices can reduce this stress for your dog.

Steps to help your dog adjust:

• Keep your dog's daily routine consistent, including walks and meals, to provide familiar structure.
• Bring familiar belongings to the new home such as their bed, toys, and blankets to provide comfort and a sense of security.
• On moving day, create a quiet sanctuary room where your dog can stay away from noise and strangers.
• If possible, arrange for trusted pet care during the busiest moving times.
• Introduce your dog gradually to the new surroundings, allowing them to explore safely at their own pace.
• Stay calm and positive yourself, as dogs sense your emotions and can mirror stress.
• Update your dog's microchip and pets tags with your new address promptly.

More detailed guidance can be found at puppies resources, and consulting a professional trainer or behaviourist may also help during this transition.

Moving in with a partner

Combining households with a partner changes your dog’s life too. It often means shifts in routine, new rules, and extra people in the daily pack.

How to ease this transition:

• Introduce new rules gradually, and communicate clearly among adults to maintain consistency.
• Allow your dog time to adjust to the new person and home dynamics.
• Enhance bonding by involving the partner in walks, feeding, and playtime.
• Respect your dog's needs for space and attention throughout changes.

Splitting up or a change in family make-up

Breakups or family shifts like children leaving home can cause emotional upheaval for your dog, particularly if they formed strong bonds with family members.

Supporting your dog during family changes:

• Maintain stable routines to promote security.
• Minimise exposure to conflict or tension, as dogs pick up on stress.
• Increase positive interactions with your dog to reassure and comfort them.
• Negotiate pet custody arrangements with your dog's wellbeing as a priority.
• Be patient as your dog adjusts to a new normal, gradually re-establishing trust and belonging.

The emotional well-being of your dog is as important as the logistical details; understanding their needs can help prevent anxiety or behavioural problems. Learn more about pet custody and managing stress post-breakup from specialist dog care resources.

Having a child

Welcoming a baby is joyous but presents a significant adjustment for your dog; your attention, routine, and household noise will all change.

Practical tips to manage your dog’s needs:

• Have your dog checked by the vet before the baby arrives to ensure good health.
• Introduce baby smells and sounds using baby clothes and recordings gradually before birth.
• Use baby gates to create safe separation and establish boundaries before the baby comes home.
• Maintain your dog's routine as closely as possible, and involve them in calm activities with the baby.
• Train or reinforce basic commands like “stay” and “leave” to safely manage interactions.
• Never leave your baby unattended with your dog, no matter how well behaved your dog is.

This careful preparation helps foster a calm, safe environment for both your dog and new family member. Further advice is available through dog training and family integration support networks.

Having home improvements done

Renovations and home improvements can be noisy, confusing, and disruptive for your dog, especially with strangers coming and going.

Ways to help your dog cope:

• Create a peaceful, secure space for your dog far from the renovation site with their essentials.
• Keep daily routines intact as much as possible to reduce stress.
• Use distractions such as new toys or treats to divert your dog’s attention during noisy work.
• Discuss scheduling with contractors to limit work during your dog's usual rest times.
• Regularly monitor your dog for signs of distress and provide comforting company.
• Consider pet-friendly design choices and professional assistance to minimise disruption.

Planning ahead and keeping your dog's well-being in focus during renovations ensures a safer, less stressful experience for all involved.

Remember, responsible pet ownership includes being mindful of your dog's emotional and physical needs during life's big changes. Your patience and proactive care make a world of difference to your furry friend's happiness and security.