Getting a puppy - what to know

I really wish that there was a post like this for me to read before getting a puppy. There are so many 

different aspects to know and take into consideration before getting a puppy including both the 

financial and mental side of it. My life has completely changed since getting Eddie, and I wouldn't 

change it for the world, but this post would have been perfect for me to read beforehand.

Since I talk so openly about mental health, both in general but also in my own personal experiences, 

it is a large factor to take into consideration when getting a puppy. For so long after my family dog 

passed away, I longed for another puppy. I always felt so at ease around dogs and couldn't wait for the 

day I got to my own dog. I definitely didn't realise how hard work a puppy would be and wished I 

knew the emotional toll it would have on me. A puppy is very much like a baby. They don't really 

know what to do, they're dependant on you, require a lot of attention and will misbehave, such as 

weeing everywhere and biting people. Having time for yourself and trying to get things done can be a 

very difficult thing to do, until you get into a routine. The first week of having Eddie was the hardest.

I stopped eating, drinking, showering and general everyday things, because I didn't have a routine 

with Eddie, but I also couldn't wrap my head around taking care of a living breathing animal. Before 

getting a puppy or animal of any kind, the biggest factor to consider is your mental health, state and 

wellbeing. Put yourself first because you matter the most both now and in the long run.

Before getting a puppy I didn't realise how much money would be spent on him. Before we picked

Eddie up I made sure that we had everything for him; food, treats, bed, bowls, toys etc. Since then 

I've spent everyday looking at new items to buy that I never noticed before. He's got so many toys 

that suit his every mood and season, treat tins and jars, personalised items with his names on. 

Although he doesn't need any of this, it's nice to treat him to these things but also myself. In the 5 

weeks we've had him, every week he's had something new arrive or being purchased for him. I would 

recommend setting a budget for the amount you would like to spend on purchasing/adopting the 

puppy itself, as well as money aside for accessories, toys and general puppy products.

ESSENTIALS TO BUY

Crate/cage

Comfortable bed

Training mats

Food/water bowl

Variety of treats

Teething toys

Soft toys

Rope toys

Puppy milk

Small collar

Non-retractable lead

Retractable lead

Shampoo

Dry/wet food

FUN EXTRAS TO BUY

Bandanas

Themed toys

Treat tin/jar

Hi-vis collar/harness

Seasonal treats

Play pen

Toy baskets

Treat dispenser

xoxo

Lea-Mai