15 Reasons People Regret Getting a Puppy
Getting a puppy sounds like a dream—playful cuddles, wagging tails, and unconditional love. But the reality? Raising a puppy is a full-time commitment that comes with sleepless nights, chewed-up furniture, and endless vet bills. Here are 15 reasons people regret getting a puppy—and why it’s not always as easy as it looks.
They Underestimated the Time Commitment
Puppies need constant attention—from training and playtime to feeding schedules and bathroom breaks. Many new owners don’t realize that for the first few months, having a puppy is almost like having a newborn baby. The sudden loss of free time can be overwhelming, especially for those with busy schedules.
They Didn’t Expect So Many Sleepless Nights
Forget peaceful nights—puppies often wake up crying, whining, or needing bathroom breaks at all hours. Some puppies take weeks (or even months) to sleep through the night, leaving their owners feeling sleep-deprived and frustrated. Many people underestimate how exhausting those first few months can be.
Potty Training is Way Harder Than They Thought
Many new puppy owners expect their dog to quickly learn where to go potty, but the reality is much messier. Accidents happen constantly, and it can take months before a puppy is fully house-trained. People who thought they’d have a clean home from day one often regret the amount of patience (and cleaning supplies) needed.
Puppies Destroy Everything
Cute and cuddly? Yes. But also tiny destruction machines. Puppies chew furniture, shoes, walls, rugs—whatever they can get their teeth on. People often regret getting a puppy when they come home to shredded cushions, ruined carpets, and bite marks on their expensive furniture.
The Cost is Higher Than Expected
Vet visits, vaccinations, high-quality food, grooming, training, toys—the costs add up fast. Many new puppy owners fail to budget properly and regret not realizing how expensive raising a dog really is. Unexpected health issues or emergency vet bills can make things even worse.
They Didn’t Expect the Endless Energy
Some puppies are non-stop balls of energy that need hours of playtime and walks. Owners who don’t have the time (or patience) to keep up often feel overwhelmed by constant zoomies, biting, and attention-seeking behavior. Without enough exercise, puppies become restless and destructive, making the situation even worse.
They Thought the Puppy Stage Would Be Shorter
A common mistake? Thinking puppies “grow out of it” in a few months. While they do mature, many breeds take one to two years before they calm down. People who expected a well-behaved adult dog within six months often regret getting a puppy when they realize just how long the “chaos phase” lasts.
Their Lifestyle Didn’t Actually Fit a Dog
Some people impulsively get a puppy without thinking about their lifestyle—constant travel, long work hours, or an active social life. Puppies need routine, stability, and time. Many owners regret getting a puppy when they realize they have to cancel plans, adjust their schedules, or pay expensive pet sitters just to accommodate their new pet.
Training Takes WAY More Effort Than Expected
People assume that puppies naturally learn commands, but training takes time, patience, and repetition. Consistency is key, and without it, puppies can develop bad habits like jumping on guests, pulling on the leash, or barking excessively. Many regret getting a puppy when they realize how much effort proper training actually requires.
They Didn’t Consider How Puppies Impact Relationships
Not everyone in a household may be equally thrilled about the new puppy. Arguments over responsibilities, house rules, and messes can create tension. Couples, roommates, and families often regret getting a puppy when they realize not everyone wants to help take care of it.
They Can’t Handle the Shedding & Allergies
Many people underestimate how much dogs shed, especially with high-maintenance breeds. Some owners also discover they have mild to severe allergies only after bringing a puppy home. Constant fur on clothes, furniture, and the floor can become overwhelming—especially for people who prefer a spotless home.
They Didn’t Think About Long-Term Commitment
A puppy isn’t just a short-term companion—it’s a 10-15 year responsibility. Many owners regret getting a puppy when they realize they aren’t ready for the long haul, especially if their life circumstances change (moving, having kids, job changes, etc.). Puppies quickly become full-grown dogs, and not everyone is ready for that commitment.
They Thought They’d “Figure It Out” Along the Way
Impulse puppy purchases often lead to panic and regret. Some people adopt or buy a puppy without researching breed traits, training needs, or basic care. When they realize they weren’t prepared at all, frustration sets in. Those who assume “it’ll work itself out” often struggle the most.
They Didn’t Expect Behavioral Issues
Even well-raised puppies can develop behavioral issues like excessive barking, fearfulness, aggression, or separation anxiety. Many people regret getting a puppy when they realize their pet needs specialized training, professional help, or a lifestyle adjustment to accommodate these issues.
They Feel Guilty for Not Loving Puppy Life
Society paints puppies as pure joy, but not everyone enjoys the chaos that comes with them. Some people genuinely don’t enjoy the puppy stage—and that’s okay! However, the guilt of feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or even frustrated makes them regret their decision. The pressure to always love the experience can make struggling owners feel worse.
