So, you’re thinking about bringing a new puppy home, huh? Buckle up, because I’ve got some truths to spill. Sure, it’s an exhilarating time filled with dreams of cuddles and cuteness overload. But let’s keep it real – it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. As your BFF, I owe it to you to share the nitty-gritty. Here are five things you absolutely need to know before you dive headfirst into puppy parenthood:
1. Your Life Will Revolve Around the Puppy, and You Will Lose Sleep
Picture this: a tiny ball of fur that demands attention 24/7. Yep, that’s your new bundle of joy. Forget about sleeping through the night – at least for a while. Puppies need constant supervision, especially when they’re not snoozing in their crate. Get ready to let them out to potty every hour or so, and brace yourself for feeding duties multiple times a day.
But it’s not all work and no play. This is also prime time for socialization. No, I’m not talking puppy playdates just yet. I mean exposing your fur baby to new people, places, and experiences. Trust me, it’ll pay off big time as they grow older.
2. You Will Feel Overwhelmed, and Regret May Creep In
Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster. It’s perfectly normal to feel like you’ve bitten off more than you can chew – pun intended. Your routine will be turned upside down, and there will be moments when you question your sanity. I’ve been there, and I get it. But hang in there – it does get better.
And hey, cut yourself some slack. Nobody hands out manuals for puppy parenting. We’re all learning on the fly, and that’s okay. You’ve got this, even on the days when you doubt yourself.
Our family recently brought a new puppy home. Her name is Lexi, and she is the cutest miniature poodle. And as much as I love her, I have shared these feelings too.
3. Raising Your New Pup Will Cost You – A Lot
Let’s talk money, honey. Bringing home a puppy is like signing up for a crash course in budgeting. Between vet bills, food, supplies, and maybe even insurance, it adds up – fast. Consider this your friendly reminder to crunch those numbers before you take the plunge.
Want some insight on what you really need? Check out our post on New Puppy Essentials – Everything You Need For The First Few Months At Home and our Top 5 Puppy Must Haves.
And speaking of expenses, brace yourself for the ongoing cost of chew toys. Because let me tell you, puppies will sink their teeth into anything and everything. Your furniture, your shoes, you name it. Consider it a rite of passage.
4. Puppies Bite – A Lot
Sure, they’re cute as buttons, but those teeth? Sharp as needles. Brace yourself for the onslaught of nibbles on everything in sight – including you. But fear not, my friend. Consistent redirection and plenty of chew toys are your best weapons in this battle. And when all else fails, there’s always the trusty crate or playpen to give you both a breather.
5. Accidents Will Happen – In Your House
Let’s talk potty training – aka the ultimate test of patience. It’s a slow process, my friend, and it requires some serious dedication on your part. The more vigilant you are about taking your pup out and preventing accidents indoors, the quicker they’ll catch on. But remember, they’re still learning the ropes, so cut them some slack.
Brining home your new puppy will be a wild ride filled with highs and lows. But through it all, remember this: you’re not alone. Reach out to fellow dog parents, lean on your support system, and most importantly, cut yourself some slack. Because at the end of the day, the love and joy that your fur baby brings into your life make it all worthwhile.
If you are interested in getting a puppy from a breeder, we wrote all about How To Find a Responsible Puppy Breeder here.
