Welcoming a litter of puppies into your home is an exciting time, but it also comes with a fair share of preparation and patience. For first-time puppy parents or those who are expecting a litter, there are certain expectations and assumptions that need to be let go to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience. Here are six things to forget as you get ready for those adorable little paws.
Expecting a Litter? 6 Things That Will Change When Puppies Arrive
Forget About a Predictable Schedule
When puppies arrive, your daily schedule will revolve around their needs, which are constant and often unpredictable. Newborn puppies require feeding every 2-3 hours, even during the night, and you’ll need to help the mother with feeding and care. Expect your routine to be centered around feeding times, cleaning, and ensuring they’re safe and comfortable.
Forget About a Spotless Home
With puppies, cleanliness becomes a challenge. Newborns require a warm, safe, and sanitary environment, but as they grow, they’ll inevitably start exploring their surroundings, which means messes are bound to happen. Accept that accidents will occur, and you’ll likely spend a good deal of time cleaning up and puppy-proofing your home. Stock up on cleaning supplies, and remember that your floors, especially, will be in constant need of a good scrub.
Forget About Alone Time
Raising puppies is a round-the-clock commitment, and you’ll rarely get a moment to yourself. Puppies require regular feeding, cleaning, and attention, especially in the early weeks. Even as they grow older, their curiosity and energy levels will keep you on your toes, so be prepared to have little time alone as you take on the rewarding job of caring for them.
Forget About Peace and Quiet
Puppies are adorable, but they’re also vocal! Whether they’re hungry, want attention, or are simply exploring their vocal cords, be prepared for whimpers, barks, and the occasional howling session. As they develop, they’ll start using their voices to communicate, and while it’s cute, it can be noisy. Remember, their little sounds mean they’re healthy and communicating, so try to embrace the noise and let go of the expectation of silence.
Forget About Staying Hands-Off
Handling and socializing puppies early on is essential for their development, so be ready to get hands-on with them. From holding and petting them to introduce them to new sounds, textures, and experiences, hands-on engagement is crucial to help puppies grow into well-rounded dogs. If you were hoping to step back and let nature take its course, remember that your involvement will play a big role in their early socialization.
Forget About a Fixed Budget
Puppies require more than just basic supplies – think veterinary care, vaccinations, quality food, and sometimes unexpected medical expenses. It’s easy to underestimate the costs associated with raising puppies, so it’s wise to budget with some flexibility in mind. Be prepared for unexpected expenses, and consider putting aside extra funds to ensure you can provide the best care possible.
