Why Puppies Are Hard Work (and Totally Worth It)

Welcoming a new puppy into your life is exciting—but let’s be honest, it’s not all wagging tails and puppy kisses. The early months can feel like a whirlwind of sleepless nights, chewed furniture, and endless toilet trips. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone.

As a professional dog behaviourist and puppy specialist, I’ve seen it all—and I’m here to tell you that the chaos is completely normal. The key is knowing what to expect and having the right tools to navigate it.

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1.

Toilet Training Isn’t Instant

It’s one of the first things new puppy owners ask about—and one of the biggest stressors. Accidents will happen, especially in the early days. Puppies have tiny bladders and need consistent routines, patience, and positive reinforcement. Remember, punishment won’t teach your puppy where to go—only that it’s not safe to go in front of you.

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2.

The Biting Phase is Real

Those sharp little teeth can be relentless! Puppy mouthing and biting is completely normal, especially as they teethe and explore the world with their mouths. But it still hurts, and it’s important to guide them with appropriate outlets and clear boundaries before bad habits form.

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3.

Socialisation is More Than Just Meeting Dogs

Many people think socialisation means meeting as many dogs as possible—but it’s much broader than that. Proper socialisation means calmly and positively exposing your puppy to everyday life: traffic, visitors, umbrellas, children, other animals, different surfaces and sounds. Poor or rushed socialisation can lead to fear-based behaviour later in life.

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4.

Your Puppy Needs Sleep—Lots of It

Overtired puppies get bitey, loud, and hyper. It’s easy to underestimate how much rest a young puppy needs—often up to 18-20 hours a day. Teaching your pup to settle and nap throughout the day can dramatically reduce unwanted behaviour and support healthy development.

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5.

Training Isn’t Just for Obedience

The goal of early training isn’t just a perfect sit or recall—it’s building communication, confidence, and trust. Start simple, be consistent, and always end sessions on a positive note. Short, frequent training games help your puppy learn faster without getting overwhelmed.

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Feeling a Bit Lost? I’ve Got You.

If you’re finding puppy life more challenging than you expected, you’re not doing anything wrong—it just means you’re human. And while every puppy is different, there are tried-and-true strategies that can make this stage easier and more enjoyable for both of you.

That’s why I created The Puppy Starter Guide—a clear, practical, easy-to-follow eBook packed with professional advice on everything from toilet training and biting to socialisation, sleep, and setting up routines. Whether you’re a first-time owner or just need a refresher, it’s your go-to resource for raising a confident, happy dog.

[Download the Puppy Starter Guide now] and give your pup the best start possible.

The Puppy Starter Guide - Everything You Need to Know in One Place!