Sleepless nights, toilet training, a constant pair of eyes. As much as this sounds like a household with a baby, I’m sure that many puppy-owners out there will be able to empathise with this.  

Because really, having a puppy is as hard as having a baby, particularly in this day and age, when more people are bringing puppies into their lives, and that we expect so much more of them in terms of training.  

 

So, what can you do?  
 
As a puppy owner:  

1. Remember how long you’ve had the puppy for:  

Although I know that it is easier said than done from experience, sometimes you must realise that you have only had your puppy for so long, and that it will be hard for quite some time. It can take weeks and often months for a puppy to gain their confidence and be able to regulate themselves.  

2. Accept that regression is normal:  

Generally, regression in puppies happens around 4 to 12 months, particularly regarding their social skills and reactivity in terms of their non-voluntary reactions (natural reactions to threats). However, you must remember that this is normal, although it can feel tricky at the time, and you feel like you’ve lost all of your progress.  

3. Do training in small doses  

Despite the feeling that you must get your puppy trained as quickly as possible, often lots of hard-core training can be a struggle for them. It’s generally better to give them more time, even if it feels harder in the earlier days.  

If you know someone with a puppy:  

1. Accept that they may need a little more time or some help with things  

Having a puppy can be a real struggle, as they require so much attention which quite often isn’t realised by others. With owners putting so much attention into their dogs, they may find it hard to focus their attention on other things, and their plans might change quickly according to their dog.  

2. Do not run up to their puppy 

As much as it may be tempting, puppies will only see you as more of a threat if you are in their headspace. Always ask the owner, if you see a puppy with a ‘do not approach’ coat or label, please keep it in mind, and if in doubt, give the puppy as much space as you can.  

3. Follow the owner's instructions regarding the puppy  

As much as puppies benefit from training with their owners, careful socialisation with other humans and older dogs can be really helpful for them to not see others as a threat. Always listen to the owner though with this, as it can easily become too much for the puppy, or ‘overfill their bucket.’  

 

I’m hopeful that this will be a useful guide for you, even if you don’t own a puppy. Though it may seem daunting at first, just remember the three things and it should start to make your life easier. 

And if you don't remember any of this at all, please just take this: Use Hard Toys and Not Soft Ones!