Why Did My Dog Stop Listening After Moving?

A dog may stop listening after a move due to stress, confusion, or changes in household hierarchy. Dogs thrive on routine and consistency. A new environment, especially one involving new authority figures like a parent, can shift their behavior. Regaining control requires calm leadership, consistency, and patience.

Why Is My Dog Not Listening After We Moved?

Moving is stressful — for humans and dogs. Ever feel like your dog changed overnight after a big move? You’re not alone. Many dog owners report a sudden shift in obedience after changing homes. Especially when moving in with someone else, like a parent, who unknowingly disrupts the pack structure.

Let’s break it down.

Dogs Don’t Just Move — They Adapt

Dogs aren’t just cute companions. They’re pack animals with a keen sense of hierarchy. When the household changes, so does their world.

In your old place, you were the constant — the leader. After moving in with your mother, things shifted. If your mom gives commands, feeds the dog, or takes over key routines, your dog might start viewing her as the new leader.

Result? Confusion. Rebellion. Ignoring your voice.

Emotional Spillover: Your Dog Feels What You Feel

Frustrated? Stressed out? Dogs pick up on emotional energy like pros. Your dog might be mirroring your stress or sensing the tension in this new setup.

And if you’re emotionally checked out or feel disempowered in this living situation, guess what? Your dog feels that too — and it directly impacts their behavior.

Behavior Regression: Not Disobedience, Just Disruption

Before the move, you noticed she was already testing limits. Now it’s worse. That’s not surprising.

Dogs crave structure. Sudden changes throw them off. A lack of routine or unclear leadership makes them act out, not out of defiance, but confusion.

Imagine switching jobs, cities, routines — and having no idea who’s in charge anymore. That’s your dog’s current world.

How To Rebuild Trust And Control

1. Create Predictable Routines

Feed at consistent times. Take walks at set hours. Keep command words uniform. Routine builds stability — and stability brings obedience.

2. Reclaim Your Role as Leader

Leadership isn’t about domination. It’s calm, clear, consistent communication. Practice short training sessions daily. Praise good behavior immediately. Redirect bad behavior without emotion.

3. Team Up With Your Mom

Mixed signals destroy training. Agree on which words to use, what behaviors to discourage, and how to respond to disobedience. No room for “but I do it this way.” Dogs need one language, not two.

4. Offer Solo Time With You

Jealousy? Yes, it’s real. Dogs love one-on-one bonding. Take her on solo walks. Play without your mom around. Reinforce that you’re still her person.

5. Get Expert Help If Needed

Still stuck? Hire a certified trainer or watch breed-specific online trainers. A third party can spot subtle signals and teach you how to fix them.

American Kennel Club’s dog training tips offer some solid foundations worth reviewing.

What About Puppies?

If your dog is still a pup, remember: puppies aren’t mini adults. They need repetition, rewards, and room to fail. If they ignore you, it might not be rebellion — it might just be immaturity.

Puppy Tips:

• Short commands only: sit, stay, come.

• Always reward the behavior you want.

• Never punish delayed obedience — it teaches avoidance.

Mistakes To Avoid

• Yelling or showing frustration

• Inconsistent rules between you and your mom

• Skipping daily training

• Assuming dogs “just know” human expectations

Your Dog Isn’t Broken — They’re Just Lost In Translation

This isn’t about disobedience. It’s about communication. Your job now? Translate. Lead. Reconnect.

It’ll take patience. But when the bond returns — stronger, clearer — it’s worth every minute.

FAQs

1. Can moving cause anxiety in dogs?

Yes. Dogs can experience anxiety from environmental changes, unfamiliar scents, or altered routines. Signs include whining, restlessness, or behavioral shifts.

2. Why does my dog listen to my mom but not me?

Your dog may perceive your mom as the leader due to her tone, confidence, or control over food and routine. This shifts the dog’s loyalty and obedience.

3. Should I retrain my dog after moving?

Absolutely. Retraining reinforces consistency, builds structure, and helps your dog adapt faster to the new environment.

4. Is it okay for two people to give commands to a dog?

Yes, if both use the same commands and rules. Mixed messaging confuses dogs and delays training progress.

5. How long does it take for a dog to adjust to a new home?

Adjustment can take days to months. Consistent training, routine, and emotional stability help speed up the transition.