We see it on movies, ads, and even video clips on social media. Prospective pet parents are delighted and full of joy when they get a new puppy. To be fair, it is hard to imagine anything more delightful than bringing an adorable pup at home.
Yet, many dog owners find themselves in a different situation. Instead of delight, they feel stressed, sad, and anxious.
With that in mind, let’s explore the term puppy blues, one that is all-too-familiar within the pet parents world.
What is Puppy Blues?
The term refers to the negative experiences and feelings of dog owners after bringing home a young puppy. Following the immediate euphoria of the fluffy bundle of joy, dog owners, mainly first-time parents, are left without support.
They feel overwhelmed with the amount of effort it takes to raise a new puppy. It is not all sunshine and rainbow.
Sometimes, pet parents are even regretful about their decision. For many, it feels like an emotional rollercoaster.
Now, not every dog owner experiences the puppy blues. Yet, it is a common condition. And often, it happens because people have a scenario playing out in their mind that involves puppy cuddling and play time. But they forget about the responsibilities like potty training, and much more.
Signs of Puppy Blues
The faster you recognize the signs of puppy blues, the better you can manage the feelings. Symptoms can range from one person to another, but many of them are common.
Overwhelming Fatigue
Once you get a new puppy, you might feel tired due to late-night potty breaks and early-morning walks. If you are not a morning person, getting earlier to take your dog for a walk before work can be stressful. And it piles up because you have to do it over and over again tomorrow and the next day and the next day. After a while, it drains you.
Persistent Anxiety
Do you worry about your puppy’s health and behavior often? New owners might feel anxious because they are not used to having a puppy around. They wonder whether they are doing enough for their new puppy.
Feelings of Regret
Doubting your decision when puppy training gets challenging is another sign of puppy blues. As a new puppy owner, you might get frustrated, but that is completely normal.
Irritability
Minor issues with your new puppy might make you more irritated than usual. You might snap at your puppy for peeing in the wrong place. And you will probably feel guilty afterward.
Social Withdrawal
As a new dog owner, you might be turning down invitations for going out. Most new owners feel reluctant about spending time because your young puppy.
Why Do People Get Puppy Blues?
You might be thinking loving a gorgeous new pup is easy. Yet, there are plenty of reasons why new dog owners might dislike their pup and feel the downside of puppy blues. Here are some.
- You are struggling with toilet training, and your house turned into a mess.
- Your puppy is biting and nipping at everything.
- The new pup will not stop barking.
- Your puppy chews and destroys everything in the house.
- You feel overwhelmed and anxious and have negative feelings towards your dog.
What Does the Science Say?
ManyPets recently ran a survey about puppy blues, and the findings are quite interesting. Nearly 70% of owners reported symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Half of them said they experience symptoms on most days, and more than 70% said that symptoms are more than mild.
Those who experienced depression, half of them report symptoms on most days.
Are You Prone to Puppy Blues?
The fact of the matter is puppy blues can strike anyone, at any time. No dog owner is spared, but there are some profiles that are at a higher risk.
Sole Caretakers
Puppy ownership is rough, especially when you have to take care of yourself as well. People who are sole caretakers have a higher risk because they have nobody to share the responsibilities with. And for solo owners, the symptoms hit harder.
Owners with Multiple Dogs
Often, people who already own a dog want to invest in more dogs or a new dog. Yet, sometimes, a new pup isn’t the right fit. And it hits you hard, because you love dogs and you have no idea what to do with the new member of the household.
Male Owners
Males are more likely to feel puppy blues. Most studies show that male owners report regret more often than female pet parents.
How to Handle Puppy Blues?
If you are a new puppy parent, and you have been hit with the puppy blues, do not worry. There are effective ways to cope with the feelings.
- Understand that no puppy is perfect and dog training takes time. Set realistic and attainable goals to prevent frustration.
- Create a routine and establish some basic boundaries and rules. Once you establish a predictable routine, you will feel less anxious.
- Connect with other pet owners and seek their advice. Try joining a puppy school or online groups to feel less isolated.
- Take breaks and make time for yourself. Self-care is crucial in managing your mental health.
Should You Rehome Your Puppy?
Puppies, no matter how chaotic, eventually grow up. It is your choice whether you want to rehome the new pup or not.
Sometimes, pet parents feel like they’ve exhausted all possible resources, and they still cannot find a way to live with their puppy.
If that is the case, do not let guilt cloud your judgment. Your puppy deserves a loving family, not an anxious one.
Final Thoughts
Remember, the puppy stage is temporary. Many of that things that contribute to puppy blues are fleeting. Sleep deprivation due to potty training is a temporary phase. Your pup will eventually grow up and be able to hold it and thrive on your routine.
Nipping and biting can be painful, but it is also temporary. Many young puppies have no interest in cuddling because they want to explore their environment. Wait for your pup to grow up, and he will be willing to stay with you on the couch more.
