What are the puppy blues?

'Puppy blues' is a term used to describe the negative experiences and feelings that some people experience after bringing home a puppy. After the immediate euphoria of the fluffy bundle of fun wears off, many puppy owners (and particularly first-time dog owners) are left feeling overwhelmed and without support.

How long does the puppy blues last?

Anecdotal evidence suggests that puppy blues are generally most intense in the three weeks following their onset. After that, symptoms may remain but feel more manageable, often resolving entirely within three months.

Why do puppy blues happen?

The most common reason the puppy blues happen is when life with your puppy doesn't turn out the way you thought it would. This can affect everyone differently. For some people they may feel sad, depressed or lonely, others may feel anxious or overwhelmed. It's not unusual to want to cry.

Do dogs get the blues?

Yes, but dogs do not typically experience what we recognize as clinical depression in humans. That being said, our canine family members can certainly feel depression in the form of the blues, sadness, and grief.

Is it normal to hate your new puppy?

You may even begin to resent or dare I say it, hate your puppy. So, will you ever love your puppy? Let me ease your mind, these feelings are normal, and many puppy owners have them on occasion. However, you don't have to feel stuck in the puppy blues!

Puppy Blues 101

What to do if you regret getting a puppy?

A shelter or rescue might be able to take your puppy off your hands, or allow you to keep your puppy as a foster until they can help you find a new home for them. Shelter and rescues have networks of potential adopters and usually have protocols to ensure that your puppy is going to a good home.

Is it normal to feel overwhelmed with a puppy?

In conclusion, it is very normal for puppy owners to feel overwhelmed in the first weeks and months with their new addition. The vast majority of overwhelming issues are related to puppyhood and are able to be resolved with training and time.

What are the signs that your dog doesn't like you?

Why is my puppy so sad all of a sudden?

Sadness in dogs is usually the first sign of serious diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, or even cancer. Also, an upset stomach or a deep feeling of dissatisfaction. In this article, we will talk about the main causes why your dog does not get up, spends all day sleeping, does not want to eat, and is depressed.

Why is my new puppy sad?

Whining, Crying, or Barking

Puppies are social animals and crave the company of others. Your new puppy is experiencing life without his mother and littermates for the first time so he could be sad and lonely and expressing these feelings by whining, crying, or barking.

Is the first week with a puppy the hardest?

The first month of owning a puppy is probably the hardest, and knowing what to expect and help you to decide whether you are ready, and let you know what you are in for!

Is raising a puppy harder than a baby?

Here's the thing, though — when it comes to raising cute, helpless and needy creatures, raising a puppy is way harder than raising a baby.

How long does the puppy stage last?

Puppies typically develop the emotional maturity and temperament of an adult dog between twelve and eighteen months of age, although they may continue to occasionally exhibit puppy behavior like chewing and nipping until they're about two years old.

Is it normal to regret getting a dog?

Yep, it's fairly normal to regret getting a puppy or dog. You're not a bad person! If you've recently added a new dog or puppy to your family and you're wondering if you've made a mistake, just know that others go through the same feelings.

At what age are puppies most destructive?

It's no surprise that many owners become exasperated, possibly even giving up on the pet. Owners report destructive chewing when the dog is anywhere between six and ten months of age. Different breeds and sizes of dogs hit this stage of development at different times.

How long do puppy crazies last?

Try to focus your pup on a toy or chew. Wait it out. The crazies are usually over in 5 minutes or less.

Can dogs be suicidal?

It is uncommon for dogs to succumb to depression. A dog's strong survival instinct should always take over in dangerous situations. However, dog suicide persists because of numerous reports over the years. In Italy, pets who have been left alone for weeks claimed to have been so upset and depressed.

How do you cheer up a sad dog?

How do you know if a puppy is happy?

How do you know if your puppy trusts you?

How do you know your dog has bonded with you?

There's a real light in their eyes; they smile, wag, rub into you, and makes great eye contact. When you come home, they brighten up, becomes animated, and may even vocalize their joy. Other signs of a strong bond include: Keeping tabs on your location when they are off leash.

How can you tell if your puppy loves you?

What do I do with a puppy all day?

But do schedule play and exercise time into your puppy's day: a walk around the neighborhood, playing with toys, and time spent bonding go a long way toward expending energy. Several shorter sessions are better for a puppy than one long one.

How long does it take to get used to a puppy?

There are some things we can do to help them settle and feel safe in those first few days. Keep in mind though, that it generally takes about three weeks for a dog or puppy to start to feel 'at home' and to show their true nature. This is an activity you should do before you get your dog or puppy home.

What if I don't want my puppy anymore?

If you want to give up your dog, there are a couple of options you could try: Contact a dog rehoming centre. You could try one of the national charities such as Blue Cross, Dogs Trust, the RSPCA, SSPCA or USPCA, or a local rescue organisation.