Getting a puppy might seem like a great idea; what’s not to love about a little ball of fur to cuddle and love you unconditionally? However, for those who have yet to experience the obstacles that come with parenting a puppy, you’re in for a rude awakening. There’s no doubt that there are so many good things that come with becoming a puppy parent, but it’s not all flowers and rainbows. As the proud mom to a 2-year-old Golden Retriever, I’m about to lay a smack down on this puppy fantasy of yours with the cold, harsh realities that come with truly parenting a puppy:
1. Their teeth are like razor blades… and they chew on everything.
I’m being extremely serious when I say that a mischievous puppy with sharp puppy teeth might be one of the most dangerous things in this world. It can sometimes feel a little like shark week with a puppy hanging around.
2. You’ll get up every two hours (at least) to take them outside during the night while potty training the little buggers.
But in reality, it’ll most likely be every hour.
3. You’ll get jealous of their unconditional love for every other person they show the least bit of affection to.
After all, you’re their human! Shouldn’t they only love you?
4. Vet bills will be your worst nightmare for at least the first six months of your pup’s life.
Seriously, like every other week your puppy will be due for a vet visit and they’re not cheap.
5. Your pupper will get into stuff you don’t want them in. Or they could do this.
They’ll ruin a thing or two, or in my case they might sneakily scarf down half a chocolate cake off the table while you aren’t looking, which will result in a lot of anger, worry, tears and a $250 vet visit.
6. Your baby will grow up too fast.
You’ll only have your little fluff ball of a puppy for a few short months.
However, when it comes down to it, all of the difficulties and obstacles that come with being a puppy mom or dad become obsolete due to the love you feel for your little pupper and all the love they give you in return:
1. You’ll miss the razor sharp puppy teeth when they start falling out and adult ones come in their place.
That’s when you realize your little one is growing up.
2. You might be a little sleep deprived, but you don’t mind waking up ten times a night to take them to potty.
At least you’re waking up to their cute little face!
3. You’ll learn to love the fact that they love everyone unconditionally.
You’ll eventually learn that they don’t love you any less just because they enjoy spreading their love.
4. Vet bills, yes I won’t lie… they suck.
But you know you’d do anything to keep your little one strong and healthy.
5. Their antics can annoy you sometimes…
But they can also make you laugh out loud and you know you wouldn’t trade them for the world.
6. The good news is, they never actually stop being a puppy.
They just become larger puppies!
7. They might be little monsters sometimes…
But they’ll always be your little monster!