Are You Truly Ready to Welcome a New Puppy?
Who doesn’t love a good puppy? They’re cute, they’re funny, and they’re the quickest best friend we ever made! However, a new phenomenon is plaguing pet owners—puppy blues. Psychologists recently coined the term to describe the negative emotions some people feel after bringing home a new pet (not unlike new parents). Let’s dive into some common symptoms you should look out for and a few ways to ease into the challenge.
1. Constant Fatigue
New puppies are a handful, often resulting in lost sleep, earlier wake-up times, and interruptions during the night. If you’ve ever struggled with a proper sleep schedule, you know how difficult it is to tackle the day—but those who’ve never experienced it can get overwhelmed.
2. Feeling Regret
Puppy blues can elicit regret. It’s a guiltier feeling brought on by the stress of pet ownership, but that doesn’t make it any easier. Those battling the blues might doubt their decision to adopt an animal, especially if they struggle with training or bonding.
3. Social Withdrawal
Furry friends take up a lot of time. You’re stuck at home training and making sure they don’t get into trouble, and that could mean less time with loved ones. These feelings only worsen with depressive emotions; we’re less likely to accept invites or even talk about new pets when we’re overwhelmed.
4. Bursts of Anger
We’ve all chuckled at guilty puppy videos online—but they’re a lot less cute when it’s your own home. Impulsive puppies chew anything from furniture to dangerous items, and frequent misbehavior (paired with lack of sleep) often leads to increased irritability.
5. Nagging Fears or Worries
Taking care of an animal isn’t easy, and persistent worries only make it hader. Those with puppy blues may find themselves fearful, even when a dog’s in perfect health. They might also lose sleep, grow anxious, or worry that they’re not doing a good job. Some owners may doubt their ability to care for a pet at all.
6. More Annoyance
It’s one thing to get annoyed but it’s another to get bogged down completely. Between barking, accidents in the house, and unmet expectations, puppies can drive their owners up the wall. Throw in expensive vet visits or lack of sleep and you might be more annoyed than ever.
7. You’re Overwhelmed
Getting overwhelmed looks different for everyone. Some people might cry. Others may snap at loved ones, including their new best friend. Some shut down while others have a hard time concentrating. However it manifests, being overwhelmed is a common side-effect of puppy blues—one that comes with its own symptoms.
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8. Physical Pain
Overworked nervous systems can sometimes cause physical symptoms like headaches, joint pain, and nausea. When you’re worked to the brink, physical conditions are often a good indicator that you’re struggling.
9. You Miss Your Old Life
It’s okay to miss your freedom, but regret is a sign of something bigger. Some may feel resentful toward their dog or regret getting them in the first place. It’s a difficult feeling to struggle with but, for what it’s worth, is also a common symptom that usually goes away with time.
10. Depressive Symptoms
New pets are supposed to bring joy and excitement into our lives, but that’s not always the case. Some pet owners might slip into more serious symptoms, especially when anxiety flares over the wellbeing of their pet.
That’s not to say that puppy blues last forever! Though the initial hurdle is high, new pet owners can take necessary steps to overcome such fears.
1. Know You’re Not Alone
First and foremost, it’s important you know that you’re not alone. Even if you feel overwhelmed or resent your pet right now, many owners battle similar symptoms. You’re not a bad person for struggling. The silver lining is that puppy blues often fade in a few weeks.
2. Establish Consistent Routines
One of the best things you can do—for you and your puppy—is establish a routine. The very things that benefit our pets often benefit us as well, such as walking, playing, and training. The stronger your routine, the clearer your path forward will be, and that normalcy offers a good sense of balance.
3. Work on Training
Speaking of training, it’s important to work out behavioral kinks early. Outside of common tricks, work on getting your puppy to relieve themselves outside, and make sure you provide toys that help with teething. You should also work on reactivity and any excessive barking.
4. Manage Your Expectations
For all the joy that puppies bring, they’re also chaotic balls of energy! It’s best to curb the expectations that things will be easy. Pet ownership is a serious responsibility, so walk in with that mindset. For example, it might take some time to potty train them or keep their chompers away from your pillows.
5. Recruit a Little Help
No one said you had to tackle this challenge alone. Speak with loved ones about sharing the responsibility; ask them to walk your puppy or dogsit so you can go out to a movie. There’s no problem relying on others to help you through.
6. Track Your Progress
Keep track of your training progress! It’s easy to feel like you aren’t getting anywhere, especially if training takes longer than expected, but keeping a journal shows just how far you’ve both come. Don’t worry—you’re doing better than you think.
7. Talk to Your Vet
Vets are the perfect place for in-depth information about your puppy’s needs. They’ll offer advice on any reactive behavior, provide proper diets, and help pave your path forward. You’ll also have added peace of mind knowing you spoke to a professional.
8. See the Silver Lining
Though it’s rough right now, try to remember that it’s all temporary. Puppy blues usually fade in a few weeks, leaving you with a best friend for life! Taking the proper steps and talking to the right people only makes it easier.
9. Make Time for Yourself
We know puppies are a handful but you shouldn’t forget about your own needs. Whether it’s hiring a dog walker or asking a friend to sit in for a while, carve out the time for self-care. You’ll feel much better after a reset.
10. Speak With a Professional
If you notice more severe symptoms (loss of appetite, dark thoughts, lack of interest in hobbies), you should speak with a therapist. Having something this stressful in your life may drum up underlying conditions and it’s worth talking to a professional if you notice anything more serious.
