Nearly two in five dog owners admit they felt regret, doubt, and even resentment after bringing home a new puppy – with 56% left shocked by how hard their new pet was to look after.
More than seven in ten (71%), of 2,000 dog owners polled, said that having a new pup was like having a newborn baby – with a quarter even suggesting an infant child would be less demanding.
And 37% admitted they suffered from negative feelings – or “puppy blues” – after bringing home a new pooch, with 47% saying their life changed more than they had anticipated.
Just under half (46%) even admitted they considered giving up or rehousing their pup multiple times.
The top reasons for such emotions include their pet's behaviour (42%), and the damage the canines did to their home (43%).
But despite this, 86% say they now love their pet unconditionally – although almost all dog owners (91%) say they would have benefitted from expert advice on how to cope through the hard times.
The research was commissioned by pet insurance brand ManyPets, which has teamed up with vet Dr Scott Miller to host free one-to-one sessions, to help owners acclimatise to their new role as puppy parents.
Oke Eleazu, UK CEO of the brand, said: “While bringing home a new puppy is a uniquely fulfilling experience, the lack of sleep, mess, and feelings of regret can become overwhelming.
“As the research shows, 37% of dog parents experienced some form of puppy blues. We want to help pet parents feel they are not alone.
“This is why we’re excited to have appointed veterinarian, Dr Scott Miller, as our first ever Doggy Doula, to provide the emotional and informational support needed to help new dog owners adapt to life with their puppy.”
The research also found 75% of those with puppy blues felt ashamed by their emotions towards their pup.
For some, having a puppy also created tension within the household due to the additional chores – with 52% quarrelling more about their puppy than the washing-up.
And 52% said getting a puppy caused arguments between themselves and their partner or family.
Despite feelings of regret and upset after getting a puppy, thankfully those emotions tended to subside quickly.
Of those who had puppy blues, 96% said those feelings either totally or somewhat disappeared over time.
And for 28%, the more negative emotions typically went away in less than a week.
Dr Scott Miller, who has appeared on ITV ’s This Morning, said: “It’s normal to doubt yourself, and no matter how much prep you do for the first day, the responsibility of taking care of a little one can still be a real shock.
“Even though you might feel embarrassed or scared to admit how hard you’re finding it, a great starting point is to seek out support when you’re struggling.
“As Doggy Doula, I’m here to lend a non-judgemental ear to your puppy problems.”
