10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Got a Puppy

Puppyhood...what an experience! Getting a new puppy (whether adopting or picking up from a breeder) is an exciting time. Your house and your family dynamic changes. You also add a whole new level of love and responsibility to your life. Here are some quick thoughts I had about things I wish I knew when I first got a puppy...

1. I wish I knew that dog hair would become a condiment in my house
2. I wish I knew the importance of socializing
3. I wish I knew those puppy teeth are REALLY sharp and will leave scars
4. I wish I knew how important is was to start training right away
5. I wish I knew they use their puppy eyes to manipulate you
6. I wish I knew they are expensive, even as puppies
7. I wish I knew that some dogs talk a lot...a lot
8. I wish I knew that my wood floors would never stay clean for more than an hour ever again
9. I wish I knew what exactly wears him out completely (because an 16 mile walk didn't even do the trick)
10. I wish I knew just how attached I would get to the furball

By bringing up all of these things, it makes it sound like I totally failed my dog, or he failed me; which couldn't be further from the truth actually. The truth is, my dog is amazing and I love him dearly, but raising a puppy is a tough job! Growing up, we had a couple puppies, but until I was an adult, raising my own puppy, I never really knew all the work my folks put into taking care of those puppies. Us kids just saw all the fun parts and took the wet kisses and cuddles.

What are some things that you wish you knew before you got a dog? Share with us below or on our Facebook page!