Moving With Dogs in Kelowna: Tips for Buyers, Sellers & Developers
Moving is almost always stressful — not just for people but for dogs, too. Whether you’re buying your first home in Kelowna, selling a property, or relocating for a new multifamily build, your dog feels the impact of change. Packing, new routines, and strange smells in an unfamiliar home can be overwhelming.
For Kelowna home buyers and sellers, this often means extra planning. For developers and builders, it’s another reminder of how lifestyle and pet-friendly features can influence real estate decisions.
Below are expert-backed tips from Rover and Kelowna real estate professionals to help families — and their dogs — transition smoothly.
How to Prepare Your Dog Before a Move
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Training first: Work on crate training, car rides, and leash potty breaks if your new Kelowna property doesn’t have a fenced yard.
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Get used to supplies: Let your dog explore moving boxes — toss treats inside to reduce anxiety.
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Update ID & microchip: Essential if you’re moving into busy Kelowna neighborhoods or condo developments.
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Check local rules: Different Kelowna strata communities and rental properties may have pet restrictions. Developers creating infill multifamily projects can stand out by highlighting dog-friendly amenities.
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Find a vet in Kelowna: Don’t wait until your dog is sick — research clinics and check vaccination requirements ahead of time.
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Preview the new space: If possible, visit your new home before moving day so your dog can sniff around and feel more comfortable.
Nine Moving Day Tips
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Stick to your dog’s routine for walks, feeding, and play.
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Pack your dog’s essentials (bed, toys, blankets) last — unpack them first.
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Feed a smaller meal to avoid upset stomachs.
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Burn off energy with a long walk before packing the car.
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Try calming tools like pheromone sprays, Thundershirts, or music.
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Ask your vet about short-term anti-anxiety medication for long moves.
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Dog-proof your new yard or balcony.
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Explore your new Kelowna neighborhood slowly — especially with all the sights and sounds.
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Consider a pet sitter or doggy daycare during the busiest unpacking hours.
Transporting Your Dog Safely
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By Car: A crate or dog seatbelt harness is safest.
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By Plane: Check airline pet rules, paperwork, and try for direct flights.
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By Train: VIA Rail allows pets — review requirements before booking.
Supplies to pack: crate, seatbelt, first aid kit, travel bowls, updated ID tags, microchip info, medical records.
Helping Your Dog Adjust After the Move
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Safe room setup: A quiet space with familiar smells and their bed.
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Keep things familiar: Maintain the same food, harness, and walking routine.
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Watch for stress: Common signs include pacing, accidents, excessive whining, or loss of appetite.
Dogs typically take weeks (sometimes months) to feel fully at home, so patience and consistency are key.
Why This Matters for Kelowna Buyers, Sellers & Developers
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For buyers: A dog-friendly home can be the deciding factor. Think fenced yards, nearby trails, or strata rules.
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For sellers: Staging your home to highlight pet-friendly spaces (mudrooms, easy-clean flooring, fenced yards) can attract more buyers.
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For developers/builders: In a competitive Kelowna real estate market, including dog parks, pet washing stations, and green spaces in infill multifamily projects can increase appeal and value.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving With Dogs in Kelowna
Q: Are there pet-friendly condos in Kelowna?
Yes, many condo developments in Kelowna allow dogs, but each strata sets its own rules. Some limit the number of pets, enforce weight restrictions, or ban certain breeds. Always check strata bylaws before buying.
Q: Do all strata communities in Kelowna allow dogs?
No, not all do. Some 55+ or luxury strata buildings are pet-restricted. Buyers should review bylaws before writing an offer, and sellers should highlight “pet-friendly” status in their listing to attract more buyers.
Q: What should sellers do if they have pets during showings?
It’s best to remove pets during showings. Clean carpets, repair pet damage, and stage the home to look fresh and welcoming. Buyers can be sensitive to odors or pet wear-and-tear, so a professional clean can boost appeal.
Q: Are there dog-friendly neighborhoods in Kelowna?
Yes. Communities like Kettle Valley, Dilworth Mountain, and Glenmore are popular with dog owners thanks to nearby parks and trails. Developers adding infill multifamily projects in these areas can appeal directly to pet-owning buyers.
Q: What should developers in Kelowna consider for pet-friendly builds?
Adding fenced green spaces, dog wash stations, and walking paths makes multifamily projects more attractive. With Kelowna’s strong demand for lifestyle-driven housing, pet-friendly features often command higher value.
✅ Thinking of buying or selling a home in Kelowna?
Download our mobile app here (code: 33DC752D) to view pet-friendly listings.
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🐾 Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or developer, we’ll help you find the right move — for you and your dog.
Mark and Maddie Coons
Selling Kelowna Real Estate Group
Tel: 778-744-0872
