Just got a new puppy?
It’s not as fun as when you made it up in your head, right?
Alright, before you get all panicky and start thinking of sending the little pup back to the shelter, hear us out for a second.
Puppy blues, a.k.a, “postpartum puppy depression or Puppy depression,” is not a psychiatric condition but a phase that a lot of new puppy owners (both rescues and others) go through.
Here on this page, we will help you understand why you (or someone you know) feel this way.
We will provide practical tips and advice which will help you deal with those overwhelming or sad feelings and give you the relationship you’ve been craving for since you set your eyes on that pup.
When Does Puppy Blues Happen?
It’s not a rare phenomenon; some happy dog owners I know have gone through this phase. In their own words, “I didn’t feel it.”
If you still don’t get it, let me give you a practical instance.
Have you ever had a roommate you didn’t vibe with?
Like everything this person does gets to you, such that after a while, you get a little mad at everything they do.
The two of you might still talk, but there’s no real connection there, and from time to time, you’ll feel like living alone instead.
With a new dog, this struggle is characterized by being numb, exhausted, sad, feelings of anxiety, and a host of other negative emotions.
Which seem to eclipse the owners’ happy feelings when originally planning to adopt a baby.
That’s how baby blue is for most people.
Is Something Wrong With You?
“Maybe this was a bad idea.”
“I wish I’d thought this through.”
“Will I be seen as a bad person if I give him back?”
If thoughts like the ones above come creeping in, NO, you’re not a wicked person, you’re just tired.
You haven’t heard about this stuff a lot but, you’re not alone, and this doesn’t mean you don’t love your furry buddy.
You’re just adjusting to the new atmosphere that you’ve discovered.
Another phenomenon this could be likened to is postpartum depression.
The difference here is that you aren’t the mother of this little pup (Biologically).
If you think about it, you may not have spent nine months waiting for the puppy to arrive.
This could be one of the reasons you feel this way now.
Also, unlike the mothers who have suffered postpartum depression, you don’t get a “leave” to focus on the baby dog and get acquainted.
It might be tough for you at first, but you’ll get through this.
Why Are You Experiencing Post-Partum Puppy Depression?
Well, several factors could contribute to your current situation.
Here are the most common causes of Puppy Blues:
- Additional Responsibility
- Exhaustion
- Lack of a stable financial backup
- Less sleep
- Inability to blend in with existing pets
- Property damage
- Change in your social life/privacy
- Problems in behavior
- Issues when acclimatizing with the family
- Issues in potty training
All these are probably making you feel a little sad about having the little guy around.
You will be drained at first, especially if this is your first time, but in time, and through constant effort and patience, you’ll be able to get things in order.
On the plus side, such feelings can make you see things from a different perspective, which will help you make smarter decisions.
Here’s What You Should Expect
This will only happen once.
The crazy potty training sessions, the nights spent half-awake, making sure you get the routine right, will become bearable and less intense as you move on.
It is okay if you feel a little overwhelmed and you want to scream. You’re a human being, after all.
Just know that in the end, the end justifies the means, and your efforts will be rewarded.
Tips To Help You Be A Responsible Dog Owner
1. Keep your dog fantasies to a bare minimum
A dog is not an object you check on when you “feel” like.
He/she is a living, breathing being with feelings, emotions, and needs.
2. Find the right breed
you must know this before you bring a dog home.
Some dogs require more care and patience than others.
It would help if you did a little research on the dog you have so that you prepare yourself emotionally, physically, and financially
3. Get a dog crate
This will serve as a safe space for the dog, especially when you’re not around to supervise.
4. Spend time with other dog owners
There’s nothing like having a play buddy for your dog and an experienced owner to guide you through the hoops and struggles.
Especially if both of you have the same breed of dogs.
5. Keep track of your progress
Note the different timelines and get your dog into a routine.
This is important so that you’d be aware of the dog’s typical behavior, and you’ll be able to spot when something’s wrong.
Before You Jump Into Another Page…
Here’s what you’ll need to take with you.
There are others out there like you- that will help you out with your struggles.
They’ll share their experiences, which may help you out in your situation.
Another thing you should know…
Put yourself first. Even dough you have a dog, you mustn’t be with your dog 24/7.
You can request the aid of a friend, family member, or even a dog walker to take the load off once in a while.
Remember, the puppy needs to learn to socialize, and you need a rest.
So allow your buddy to mingle a bit while you catch your breath.
We hope this helps you out in your research.
