For most people, getting a new puppy is guaranteed to immediately lift their spirits.
Others, however, experience a surprising emotional response akin to sadness, known as puppy blues.
What Are the Puppy Blues?
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You might feel incredibly sad, question your decision, or feel youre not cut out for puppy parenting.
Since youre just getting to know each other, having these doubts and anxieties is normal.
While feeling frustrated occasionally is normal, regretting your decision or even considering returning your new pup isnt typical.
You might also feel guilty afterward for doing so.
Puppy blues symptoms can include a lot of anxiety and stress, saysDr.
Paola Cuevas, an experienced veterinarian, and behaviorist with Dogster.com.
If you recognize any these symptoms in yourself, you must understand that these feelings are temporary and manageable.
Many new pet owners go through this phase and eventually overcome them.
Self-care is crucial in managing your mental health.
You cant expect yourself to be a perfect pet parent right away.
Youll have to learn and adjust as you go.
Remember to take care of yourself.
double-check youre getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking breaks when needed.
Usepositive reinforcementwhen training with your puppy.
It helps strengthen your bond and improves mutual trust.
Keep a journal or create a digital diary of your puppys progress and your feelings.
Sometimes, seeing the progress over time can make all the difference.
If your feelings of sadness or anxiety become overwhelming, consider speaking to a mental health professional.
Its essential to address your feelings before they become more severe.
Managing Expectations and Setting Realistic Goals
Setting realistic expectations during your new puppys early days is crucial.
Be compassionate with the puppy.
It is a huge change for them, says Dr. Cuevas.
Educating yourself about theirdevelopment stagescan help you remain patient and respond appropriately to these behaviors.
Focus on setting small, achievable training goals rather than expecting perfection.
Therell be occasional setbacks, so brace yourself for them.
On some days, itll feel like you are taking two steps back for every step forward.
However, this is a normal part of the training process.
Learn torecognize and celebrate small successes.
If you experiencesymptoms of depressionor severe anxiety, its essential to talk to a mental health professional.
These feelings can be intense and may require treatment beyond self-help strategies.
Sometimes, your puppys behavior might be the source of your stress.
If the blues feel too heavy, dont hesitate to seek help.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not defeat.
Its about finding the best way forward for both you and your puppy, says Dr. Kane.
Sal Raichbach, PsyD,Chief Clinical Officer at Haven Health Management.
Regular training, feeding, and exercise schedules help your puppy feel secure and build trust between you both.
Consistency in how you handle behavior and training will lead to better communication and fewer frustrations.
Focus on rewarding your puppys good behaviors rather than punishing the bad.
This positive reinforcement strengthens your bond and encourages your puppy to repeat those good behaviors.
Spend quality time with your puppy that isnt just about training or discipline.
Play games, go on leisurely walks, or simply relax together.
Final Thoughts
Adopting a new puppy has highs and lows.
Remember, feeling overwhelmed as you adjust to the demands of caring for your pup is perfectly normal.
The early struggles will become distant memories as you and your puppy learn and grow together.
2019;9(10):792. doi: 10.3390/ani9100792
