Puppy Blues Are Real — And You’re Not Alone
Struggling with puppy blues? Learn why new puppy overwhelm is normal and how self-care, naps, and training support can help you thrive!
Puppy Blues Are Real — And You’re Not Alone
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Many new dog owners experience what’s known as the puppy blues — a very real emotional adjustment period after adding a furry family member.
The puppy blues often show up as:
Overwhelm: Struggling with the constant demands of puppy care.
Anxiety: Worrying about health, training, or if you’re doing things “right.”
Frustration: Dealing with potty accidents, biting, or sleepless nights.
Regret: Wondering if you made the right choice in getting a puppy.
Exhaustion: Feeling drained from the nonstop attention puppies require.
Here’s the truth: you’re not failing — you’re just adjusting. The puppy blues are common, temporary, and completely normal.
How to Beat the Puppy Blues
Prioritize self-care: Take a break when you need one. Ask a friend, neighbor, or even doggy daycare to give you a few hours to recharge.
Get trainer support: A professional can give you quick wins to reduce overwhelm, especially with biting or potty training.
Stick to naps: Puppies need 18+ hours of sleep a day. Crate training helps establish a consistent nap routine, which benefits both of you.
Keep perspective: Puppyhood is short. For a large breed, you’ll share about 10 summers together; for small dogs, maybe 15. These early challenges are fleeting compared to the lifetime of love ahead.
👉 Remember: Puppy blues don’t mean you’re a bad dog owner. They mean you’re human. With patience and a little support, this stage passes — and what comes next is the lifelong bond you’ve been dreaming of.
