08/10/2025
Raising a puppy takes time and commitment. It’s fabulous, but not easy.
Have realistic expectations. Puppies don’t come pre-programmed with behaviours you would like them to know.
Puppies are babies and are continually learning.
They bite, chew, go to the toilet, can struggle to rest and need our attention.
Puppies become teenagers and are teenagers until they are at least 2 years old. Larger breeds take even longer to fully mature.
Teenagers can be really hard work. Lead walking and recall becomes extra hard, teenagers can experience big, ever changing emotions, crazy hormones and it’s a time when natural instincts and drives really start to show.
Think carefully about your aims for your puppy or dog before you get them.
Genetics are so important. Choose your breed wisely, do your research and pick a great breeder or rescue.
Working breeds are working for a reason. They need a job to do and are generally harder work than non working types or breeds.
Wanting to do a long walk on weekends isn’t a good enough reason to get a working or high energy breed. You are potentially making your life so much harder than it needs to be.
Get help with training before your puppy/dog comes home and continue with training, at least until your dog is an adult.
If you need help with behaviour, do so sooner rather than later. Even puppies and dogs who are bred and raised amazingly can have challenges.
Dogs are emotional beings who we bring into our homes. Do your best by them, love them, and enjoy your time together🐾🐾.
