what are the puppy blues

Understanding the Puppy Blues

Bringing home a new puppy is one of the most exciting moments in any pet lover’s life. You’ve likely dreamed of cosy cuddles, endless tail wags, and a sweet little companion by your side. But for many new puppy parents, the reality of raising a young dog comes with a surprising and overwhelming emotional experience often called the puppy blues.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the puppy blues, from why they happen to how long they last, and we’ll answer common questions like, “Is it normal to feel sad after getting a puppy?”, “What is the hardest stage of owning a puppy?”, and “What do I do if I don’t want my puppy anymore?”

Table of Contents

What Are the Puppy Blues?

The puppy blues describe the emotional slump many new puppy owners experience shortly after bringing home their new pup. It’s that sudden realization of just how much responsibility, time, and patience it takes to raise a puppy. New puppy owners often find themselves feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and, sometimes, sad or regretful.

While the puppy blues aren’t a clinical diagnosis, they’re an incredibly common experience for pet parents. The feelings can range from mild frustration to intense emotions of sadness or guilt. Many people wonder, “Is it normal to struggle with a puppy?” The answer is a resounding yes—these feelings are part of the adjustment period that comes with the massive life change of having a puppy.

Is It Normal to Feel Sad After Getting a Puppy?

Absolutely, it’s normal to feel sad, frustrated, or even regretful after getting a puppy. Many new puppy parents have what’s known as new puppy syndrome, where they experience doubt about whether they made the right choice. The early days are filled with challenges like constant toilet breaks and accidents, interrupted sleep, and learning how to communicate with a young dog that doesn’t yet understand commands or boundaries.

The good news is that these feelings are almost always temporary, and they tend to pass as your puppy becomes more trained and as you both settle into a routine.

How Long Do the Puppy Blues Last?

The duration of the puppy blues varies, but for most people, the feelings start to improve within a few weeks as they adjust to their puppy’s routine. Generally, the hardest period is the first month, when the novelty wears off and the day-to-day responsibilities sink in. This phase is similar to what new parents of human babies experience; suddenly, you’re responsible for a little being that requires almost constant attention.

Many puppy parents report that the blues ease up by the time the puppy reaches three to four months old and has begun to develop more predictable habits. However, every puppy (and every owner) is different, so your timeline may vary.

At What Age Do Puppies Get Easier?

Puppies start to get easier to manage as they grow older and learn basic commands. By around four to six months, most puppies have a better sense of their surroundings, respond more to training, and may be able to go longer between potty breaks. At this age, puppies are also starting to lose some of their more intense, energy-driven behaviours, which can make daily life feel less chaotic.

That said, the age at which puppies get easier also depends on the breed and individual temperament. Small breeds may mature more quickly than larger breeds, but every dog is unique, and patience is key.

What Is the Hardest Week with a Puppy?

Many new puppy owners agree that the first week is by far the hardest. It’s the week when you’re adjusting to sleepless nights, frequent toilet breaks and accidents, and a general sense of overwhelm. Puppies often cry or whine during the night as they adjust to being away from their mother and littermates, and this can take a toll on your sleep and emotional state.

After the first week, things start to become a little easier as you develop a routine. However, be prepared for other challenging phases as your puppy grows.

What Is the Hardest Stage of Owning a Puppy?

The hardest stage of owning a puppy is often between the ages of two to four months. During this time, puppies are teething, which leads to constant chewing, biting, and mouthing. This is also when they are most energetic and curious, getting into everything they can reach. These behaviours are natural but can feel exhausting to manage.

Another difficult phase can come during adolescence, around six to twelve months, when your puppy may begin testing boundaries and acting out to assert independence. Known as the "teenage phase," this period is often challenging but typically improves with consistent training and patience.

How to Get Past the Puppy Blues

If you’re struggling with the puppy blues, there are several strategies you can use to help ease the experience. Here are some practical tips for making this time more manageable:

  • Establish a Routine: Routines help both you and your puppy feel more secure and structured. Try to set regular times for feeding, toilet breaks, and playtime. A predictable schedule can reduce anxiety for both of you and helps your puppy learn faster.
  • Get Support and Take Breaks: If possible, ask family members or friends to help out. Even a short break can work wonders for your mental health. Also, consider joining online puppy parent communities; talking to others who are going through the same thing can be comforting.
  • Prioritise Training: Start with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” and consider enrolling your puppy in a basic obedience class. Early training helps create a stronger bond with your puppy and provides them with boundaries and expectations.
  • Practice Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for your puppy. Rest when you can, eat well, and remember that it’s okay to feel frustrated. Taking short breaks when your puppy naps can make a big difference in how you feel.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Recognise each small milestone, whether it’s a successful potty break outside, a calm moment, or the first time your puppy responds to a command. Celebrating these moments can help boost your mood and remind you of the progress you’re making.

What to Do If You Don’t Want Your Puppy Anymore

It’s tough to admit, but some new puppy owners find themselves feeling so overwhelmed that they question whether they can keep their puppy. First, remember that you’re not alone—many people have these feelings, especially during the most challenging weeks.

Before making any decisions, consider the following steps:

  • Seek Professional Help: A certified dog trainer or behaviourist can offer guidance and help manage challenging behaviors. Sometimes, a few sessions with a trainer can make a huge difference.
  • Reach Out to Family and Friends: Family members or close friends may be able to step in to provide temporary relief, whether that’s dog-sitting or even fostering your puppy for a short period.
  • Consider Rehoming as a Last Resort: If you genuinely feel you’re unable to provide a suitable home for your puppy, rehoming may be an option. Many shelters and rescue organisations are dedicated to helping find safe, loving homes for puppies whose families are struggling to care for them.

However, try to remember that the puppy blues are often temporary. With time, patience, and support, you may find that you develop a deep, loving bond with your puppy as you overcome these initial hurdles.

Final Thoughts: The Puppy Blues Are Real, But They’re Temporary

The puppy blues can feel overwhelming, but it’s a common and often short-lived experience. Adjusting to life with a new puppy is challenging, and it’s normal to feel frustrated, sad, or even regretful at times. These emotions don’t mean you’re a bad pet parent; they mean you’re human.

If you’re feeling down, remember that it’s okay to ask for help and take breaks when you need them. Focus on creating a routine, prioritizing training, and celebrating the small wins. Before you know it, your puppy will grow into a well-behaved dog, and you’ll look back on these early days with pride for everything you accomplished together.

As difficult as it might seem now, the effort you’re putting into raising your puppy will lead to a rewarding, lifelong friendship. So, hang in there —the puppy blues will pass, and you’ll be left with a loyal companion who brings joy and love into your life every day.

CLICK HERE to download our FREE Puppy Milestones PDF

For any further help and advice please contact us on 01484 246420 and why not join our social media channels and online community on YouTube, Instagram or Facebook.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly, Reggie & Bear

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