Impending move and acting up

[jenn D]

I usually very proud of my boys as they don't get into much mischief. However since the first floor is almost completely packed and a lot of furniture is moved out the doodles have all been acting up. 2 are digging at yesterday 2 ate and threw up socks (normally all socks are put up because of jake but I think Mac and him dug into an open box and got some). All 4 are really restless in their crates at night. Could this be them being stressed about the changes or something else. My human kids are driving me bonkers now too so I know the humans are stressed. 3 weeks until final move.
Anything I can do to help the doodles or do I just have to push through?

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I think it's a combination of things; dogs pick up on our stress levels, so there's that. Dogs also love routine and hate it when things are not where the dogs think they should be, lol. Furniture missing and boxes where no boxes previously lived would be enough to make most dogs a bit anxious, especially a rescue dog. 

I don't think there's much you can do about it other than trying to keep your own anxiety down, and finding a minute here or there to give them a little extra attention. 

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

I agree with Karen....they're stressed because of all the changes going on right now.  I know all my dogs have thrived on routine....if they know what to expect they feel safe and comfortable.  The house is turned upside down and the humans are stressed....all this leads to insecurity.  One thing that may help is to give them more exercise and really tire them out....that may help them to sleep better at night.  I'm sure it will resolve itself once you get to your new home.

[Cheryl and Finnegan]

I agree with both Karen and Jane.   This is a stressful and exciting time. My guy gets concerned when anything in his home changes.  Recently I've had some success with the Adaptil Calming Collar in new situations.  I had house guests over Christmas and he stresses when that happens but he was more relaxed with the collar.  The collars last about 30 days so I picked up a new one for our trip to Vermont last weekend.  He mostly slept through a 6 hour car ride and settled right in to his new environment making friends. Some people have used it and haven't seen any change but it has helped Finn.   Unfortunately it would be expensive for multiple doodles (about $20-$25 a collar).  I found the spray didn't work as well and you have to keep reapplying it. So I would try more exercise and reassurance first and see if you can tough it out but if that fails, the collar is worth a try. I'm sure things will get back to normal once you're in your new home.

[Shoney & Ruby]

Dogs and kids are like "Stress-o-meters." If you are  stressed, they are stressed.

I say more attention all around--more walks and belly rubs for the dogs [the kids too] and some anti-stress activities for you that really make you melt [a hot bath, a night out....].

Good luck!

[Julie, Eloise & Beasley]

I agree with the others, they definitely feel the humans' stress (Shoney, I love the doodle "stress-o-meters" - perfect!) and for sure don't like the disruption in their routine and surroundings.  We got new family room furniture last month and Eloise acted like we'd moved to the moon for a good 3 weeks; I can't imagine what will happen if/when we ever move! 

May the next few weeks fly by for you with minimal "excitement".  Good luck with the move, for the humans and doodles alike! 

[Linda, Charlie Brown and Beau]

Things will settle for all once you are in your new home I would think!  I am looking forward to your update on settling in your new home.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

We just moved in October and all the packing, etc., had my two dogs acting out in different ways. They dug out in the yard every time I tried to work in the garage and Fudge went from being very independent to a velcro dog. They got into far more mischief and Vern was chewing socks every time I turned my back. He also started sleeping with us, which he had never done in the past. Since the move, Fudge has had the hardest time adjusting, but every day gets better. I know I am far more relaxed and less busy since the move and we have all gotten back into our routine. Good luck!!