5 Things to Know About Getting a Puppy: What No One Told Me (But I Wish They Had!)

So, you’ve decided to get your first puppy. You’ve bought the cute little bed, the fancy collar, and enough toys to open a small pet store. You’re ready, right? Well, let me be the first to tell you: puppies don’t read manuals. There are a few essential things to know about getting a puppy no one shared with me before I brought home my furry friend, and I’m here to pass on that new puppy owner advice. You’ll thank me later.

1. You Will Become a Poop Detective.

One thing no one mentioned about puppy potty training is how obsessed I’d become with my dog’s bathroom habits. Suddenly, I’m Googling things like "Is green poop normal for puppies?" and "How often should my puppy poop?" Trust me, you’ll become an expert in puppy bathroom behavior and probably bring it up in more conversations than you ever thought possible.

2. Your Puppy Will Out-Energy You. Every. Single. Time.

Thinking you can tire out a puppy with a quick walk? Think again! Puppies have boundless puppy energy, and their zoomies could rival any marathon runner. If you’re looking for puppy exercise tips, remember this: playtime is essential, but even after what feels like hours of running in circles, they’ll still be ready for more!

3. Chewing is a Lifestyle.

I used to have nice shoes. Puppy chewing is no joke, and anything within their radar is fair game. They have a built-in ability to find the one thing you don’t want them to chew. If you’re wondering how to stop this, introducing chew toys for puppies early on is your best defense, though, be prepared for some casualties along the way.

4. Puppy Eyes Will Make You Weak.

Puppies have a superpower: those eyes. One minute you’re firm about puppy training, and the next, you’re making sure they have the coziest spot on the couch. Be prepared, they know how to use their cuteness to get away with anything. Good luck trying to stick to your puppy rules!

5. Your Heart Will Grow Three Sizes.

While you’ll face sleepless nights and chewed-up belongings, nothing compares to the love you’ll feel for your first puppy. They’ll test your patience, but they’ll also bring a joy you didn’t know was possible. No matter what, the bond you create during those early puppy days is irreplaceable. It’s a wild ride, but it's 100% worth it.