There’s cuddling. There’s chaos. There are Instagram stories. But in between the squeaky toys and happy zoomies, there’s a ton of stuff you’ll wish someone had warned you about.
As someone who learned most of this by doing it all wrong (and mopping up a lot of pee), I want to share the 7 common mistakes new dog owners make—and how you can avoid the regret, guilt, and Google-search spirals at 2 a.m.
🐶 1. Thinking Love Alone Will Train Them
The Mistake:
You think, “I don’t need to be strict. They’ll just learn because I love them.”
Spoiler: They won’t.
The Fix:
Dogs aren’t born knowing your rules. They need structure, repetition, and patience—way more than just affection. Invest in basic obedience training early, even if it’s just “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Love + consistency = a well-behaved dog.
⏰ 2. Waiting Too Long to Start Socializing
The Mistake:
Keeping your puppy at home “until they’re older,” thinking it’s safer.
The Fix:
The golden window for socialization is between 8 to 16 weeks. That’s when their brains are wired to accept new sights, sounds, smells, and people. Controlled, positive exposures during this phase can prevent future aggression or anxiety.
No, don’t take them to a dog park full of chaos. Yes, do take them on car rides, vet visits, and walks near humans.
earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo - Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs, Dry Itchy Skin Relief, Hypoallergenic Anti Itch Puppy Shampoo for Sensitive Skin, Tear Free Pet Wash - Vanilla & Almond, 16 oz (1 Pack)
🧻 3. Not Crate Training (Because It Feels Mean)
The Mistake:
Thinking crates are “cages” and letting your pup roam free.
The Fix:
Crate training is not punishment—it’s comfort. It gives your pup a safe den and helps with potty training, sleep schedules, and preventing destructive chewing.
Done right, they’ll walk into the crate themselves like it’s their bedroom. You’ll sleep better, too.
💩 4. Using Pee Pads Too Long
The Mistake:
Relying on pee pads because you live in an apartment or it’s raining outside.
The Fix:
Pee pads teach your dog that it’s okay to go inside. Transition to outdoor potty training as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it gets.
Create a consistent potty schedule. Rain or shine. Yes, even at 6 a.m.
🧠 5. Ignoring Mental Stimulation
The Mistake:
Thinking a walk is enough.
The Fix:
Puppies are brainiacs in fur coats. Bored dogs act out—chewing shoes, barking at walls, or chasing shadows. Use puzzle feeders, short training sessions, and toy rotation to keep their brains busy.
A mentally tired dog is a happy, non-destructive dog.
🥺 6. Punishing After the Fact
The Mistake:
Coming home to a mess and scolding your puppy for it.
The Fix:
They don’t remember. They just see a scary human yelling.
Training must happen in the moment, or it’s meaningless. Instead, reward what you do want, every single time. Catch them doing good. Dogs repeat what gets them praise.
💰 7. Not Budgeting for the Real Costs
The Mistake:
“I got the puppy for free/from a friend/rescue—it’ll be cheap!”
The Fix:
Vet bills, food, grooming, vaccines, training, toys, meds—dogs are joyful money pits. Budget $1,000–$2,000/year, minimum.
And get pet insurance before the first emergency.
💬 Final Thoughts
Nobody gets it 100% right. Puppies are messy, loud, needy, and frustrating—and you’ll still love them more than anything.
But knowing what to expect, and avoiding these rookie regrets, will help you build a life with your dog that’s full of more joy—and fewer “why didn’t anyone tell me this?” moments.
And trust me: future-you (and your future adult dog) will thank you.
No comments:
Post a Comment