Time seems to help us forget the bad things. Sometimes there is ten or more years in between having a puppy. I hear people say, “My last puppy didn’t act like this,” on a regular basis. I have to remind people they are ten or so years older than they were the last time. Bending over was easier, getting on the ground didn’t take a chair or an act of congress. Sleep….. Oh, sleep didn’t mean oh so much to us ten years ago.
Puppies are HARD to raise! They will make you laugh while you cry, and yell while you gag. They will test your limits at every turn. Everyone loves to watch how Diamond tortures me because it makes me look more human. It makes my friends, family and students feel like they are on target with their puppies. I guess I don’t mind taking the hit. lol
Start training when your puppy walks in the door. Listen to all the advice, but only do what works for your lifestyle. Don’t do the things that make you feel like they are wrong. Enjoy the happy moments. All of us cry about a new puppy at some point.
Remember, training doesn’t end with a six week class. Whether you get a trainer or do it on your own, stay consistent throughout puppyhood and adolescence… Your puppy will come out a great adult on the other end. The more time you spend with them at the start, the better your furry friend will fit with your life in the end. You got this!
Diamond is a silly aussie.