A few reflections from a new puppy parent
Well this is a post I never thought I’d write. And if you’re not into dogs or pets, you can still get some enjoyment out of this, because just a few weeks ago, I wasn’t really all that into dogs or pets either, despite growing up with them. Ladies and gentlemen, things have changed …
That’s right, after just five weeks of owning a puppy, I’m here to devote an entire blog post to what life has been like with Rudy the maltipoo joining our family.
He’s grown so much in a short amount of time. We got him at around three pounds, and he’s double that now.
A few reflections from a new puppy parent
- Dog obsessed. I didn’t think I would become a puppy-obsessed person, who is always mentioning their dog. Wrong. Somehow, I’ve even told random strangers everything about him while striking up conversations. I’ve held myself back from showing pictures on my phone, but I sense that’s coming soon.
- Dirty business. I didn’t know that Dave and I would constantly be discussing our little puppy’s bathroom habits. Oh but we do. For instance, on a daily basis, I will send one-to-two texts about Rudy’s “business” to Dave and even to my Mom, just to give a full report on what he has been up to in that department.
- Baby talk. I didn’t know I would develop new habits when it comes to speaking. Yet I have. I refer to everything Rudy does as though “we” have done it. For example, “We went outside for a peepee, and now we’re playing with our lobster on the carpet.” Yes. This is how I talk. If I heard myself, I’d shoot myself. But it continues to get worse …
- Morning stretches. I’ve never had a problem getting up in the morning, and I’m even more happy to hop out of bed now, because I can’t wait to go downstairs and wake Rudy up in his crate. He wiggles and shakes when I pull him out to take him outside. And he does the same little stretch every single morning with his butt in the air. I just can’t get enough of it.
- Sense of time. I wasn’t aware that my sense of time would change. I now think of activities in terms of how long I will potentially be away from home. It’s not all about me any longer. I feel bad for all the times I thought someone was ridiculous for using their dog as an excuse to leave somewhere, but now I see it is a necessity.
- Welcome-home wiggles. Some of the good stuff? Coming home is the best, because when Rudy hears the garage door open up, he automatically waits at the top of the stairs for whoever is coming in. His little head is peeking out every time I get home and start to head up to the main room, unless he’s in his crate. And boy it feels good to have a little buddy so excited to see you.
- Change of routine. There are certain things that I do on a regular basis in the main living area of the house, like foam rolling, yoga and practicing BODYATTACK, which are part of my overall fitness routine during the week. However, with little Rudy under my feet, none of that can take place there anymore. He is scared of the foam roller. He likes to jump on my head during yoga. And he gets completely in the way during cardio practice. Therefore, I’ve moved some of this upstairs in an area where he does not go, and thus I spend much less time doing these things.
- Licking galore. As someone who is totally hygienic and clean, I was sure my standards would be strict and high when it came to having a puppy. Yet, somehow Rudy’s little tongue has been all over my face at one time or another. And the terrible part? I’m not even slightly grossed out by it.
- Dog-friendly activities. I never cared to look at hotels, restaurants or establishments to see if dogs were allowed in the past, but I definitely do now. In fact, I appreciate a clearly-stated policy on the website. Rudy’s still got a couple more rounds of puppy shots he has to get until he can go in public regularly, but I’ve already been scoping out the spots where he’ll be joining us. And yes, the Bay Area is very dog-friendly.
Needless to say, we’re absolutely in love with being puppy parents, and the laughs in the Pitt house have increased exponentially. As has the excess puppy hair!
A family selfie from a couple of Saturdays ago. Good times.
Why am I telling you all this? Because having a little pet has been a huge change for the better in my life. Dave and I are so happy with our little fuzz-bucket, even though he is a lot of work. So if you’re on the fence about getting a pet, let my reflections give you that extra encouragement to go for it. And with that, this tribute is complete.
Two more days until IDEA BlogFest in Los Angeles
I leave tomorrow for BlogFest, so after teaching a couple of classes at Orangetheory Fitness this morning, the rest of the day will be devoted to packing, practicing my presentation and hopefully fitting in a workout. As you would expect, I’m already worried about how much I’m going to miss Rudy while I’m away. But I can’t wait to get down to Southern California to let the festivities begin. And for those of you who were wondering, my launch of the new BODYATTACK 89 last night went just fabulously. It feels so good to have that under my belt!
If I haven’t totally scared you away, please come back by tomorrow for a post about food, and I promise not to talk about Rudy too much. Have a great day, my friends!
Who loves their dog? A fun read about being a puppy parent ... Click To TweetQuestions of the day
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Love this, its totally normal to be obsessed by your dog! There is nothing better than how happy they are to see you whether you’re away for 5 minutes or 5 days.
I have a collie who is full of fun, mischief and energy, he gets me out walking heaps which is never bad, although not always so fun in the rain! 🙂
Would love more Rudy posts!
Hi there! Your collie sounds like a cutie, and it’s great that he gets you to do more walking as well. I love the fact that dogs are so happy to see you no matter how long you’ve been gone. Dog lovers unite!! 🙂
As a puppy parent of 3, I totally get every single one of your points!! That is me all the way. I have 2 rescues and a standard poodle. They are spoiled rotten and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Hi Amy! Three doggies? That’s a big family! I hope they all get along. And I’m CERTAIN, they all run the house. 🙂 Enjoy your fur babies!!
Haha I love it! I have always been a big dog person but my husband Jon was the one with the major transformation when we got our dog Lilly. We are both obsessed with our girl and a large part of our lives definitely revolves around walks, potty time, play time, etc.
One thing we didn’t think about before we got her was how hard it was going to be to leave her when we go out of town. I don’t know if you have had to think about those plans yet but boy are those tough.
Hi Jenna! Yay for Lilly! You know, we HAVE thought about going out of town and what we would do. We are actually taking Rudy on the plane with us to San Diego at the end of the month, but are not sure what we’ll do with him when we’re in Hawaii yet. I don’t want to leave him!! hahah! 🙂
Haha, you are officially a dog mom! We have done all of those things you listed. I remember a few months in asking my husband, “so what did we do before we had paisley?” Lol. So fun!
I say that all the time to Dave, and it’s only been a few weeks. Like, how boring was life before a dog?? ahahaha! Glad you agree, Marielle!
Love the name Paisley, by the way!
Just wait until you have kids. Then you will really be talking about nothing but bodily functions! With Zoe we talk about poo and vomit and hair and all that goodness. But something that I love about pets is that it gives you the chance to love your partner even more–I know exactly how devoted Alex will be to our future children 😀
YES, Susie! Totally agree with you on that one. Dave’s a great doggy-daddy. It’s prep for the future hahah 🙂
Love this post! As an owner of an 80lbs lap dog I can’t say much more then you did about owning a dog ! I never grew up with dogs but my husband did so when we brought Hank home man was it a game changer but there is nothing better then coming home to an overly excited friend even if you’ve been for 5 mins ! I swear too that puppies and babies are very similar : some people disagree but many a conversation has had ‘oh my gosh my dog does that too’ when talking about babies! I’m so glad you’re loving having a dog ! It’s a huge decision but it’s totally worth it ! Have a great Tuesday !
Hi Fiona! An 80-pound lap dog? Too funny!! I guess all dogs love to sit on the laps of their owners. Rudy jumps all over us, and I continue to say to Dave, it’s a good thing he is only like 6-7 pounds. And he is totally our little baby, so yes, we can consider ourselves real parents hahha!:)
I love this post! I am the same way! Although I was kind of always dog and pet obsessed but life really does change! I can totally relate to finding places and activities that I can bring my dog, and he literally goes everywhere I can take him with me!
Hi Hilary, I love that! So your area must be dog-friendly too then, which is good. I know you post good pictures of your fuzz-ball a lot too! Glad he is a light in your life.
I have a cat but I can totally relate to all of these! I just love him and couldn’t imagine not coming home and seeing his head popping around the corner at the top of the stairs!
Hi Heather! I think cats are hilarious. I grew up with some funny cats, and they make the most entertaining pets. They can get into a lot of trouble heeh! 🙂 Glad you’re a happy cat owner!
I agree with all of this! Selma sleeps in bed with me, and she always ends up cuddled next to me when I wake up (even though she starts at the foot of the bed). She hates waking up so she’ll try to get me to stay in bed. It’s so funny to watch and always puts me in the best mood in the morning. Having a dog is the absolute best thing! I also agree that a well-stated pet policy is really great, especially at outdoor restaurants and wineries! I always call ahead to ask but I love it when they plainly state it on their site.
Hi Gretchen! And who would have thought about clearly stated pet policies unless you’re a dog owner or perhaps allergic? But it’s totally important! So Selma is not a “morning doggy” heheh? How cute! What a great way to start the day with a sleepy dog right next to you!
Scott and I have our eye on a little terrier named Olive in our development we woud like to take home. I’m sure her owners wouldn’t mind at all! Lol. A dog is definitely on our list for the future! Love seeing all the “love” evident in this post.
Hi Lauren! You will find that if you live in a community where you take your dog out with others around, you’ll instantly bond with them over the dogs. Pretty funny stuff!! I hope you get to bring home Olive ehehe. Cute name!
He’s super cute! I think its funny how your perspective changed so much. I don’t have any pets but it seems people who do talk about them all the time. I’m sure if I had one I’d be the same.
Hi Jen! I had no idea having a pet would be such a topic of discussion, but it sure is hehehe. Hope you get one one day too! 🙂
I LOL’d to a good portion of this! You will definitely have furmama guilt when you have to be away from home for longer than you like. Puppies are hard work but it sounds like you two definitely got the hang of it quickly 🙂
As a new mother … I mean, who do you like more? The dog or the baby? Totally a toss-up, right?? hahahhhaha
Hahah I absolutely love this post. I grew up with labs and now have a yellow lab Kona. And I am SUCH a dog mom. It drives my boyfriend nuts but I always feel compelled to show everyone pictures of Kona whenever I have a chance. Proud puppy momma. Rudy is beyond adorable ! Love the pictures – keep ’em coming!! haha
Hi Jamie! When you have a pet you love, you’re proud of them, right? Kona sounds wonderful!! Have a great day, friend! 🙂
Rudy is SO flipping cute! It’s probably obvious that I feel overly obsessed with our pup (and kitties), too. You just can’t help it! Loved this post and can’t wait to see you tomorrow! 🙂
Hi Heather! Yes, I think being pet obsessed is easy to do when you own cute little fuzzy friends that need you so much. Love it!
I love his sweet little fur-face. It’s so fricken hilarious that we talk about our dogs poop! We do it too, and was like “Yep, he was regular today – 3x!” And aren’t the welcome home wiggles just adorable? Makes my heart swoon when Alfie does that when we get home.
AHhaha Alfie is a total cutie too! And I think we are good parents to be aware of what’s going on each day with our dog’s business! 🙂
I love all of the puppy talk! I really want one, but my boyfriend and I are just not in a place to get one right now unfortunately. So, I just play with and spoil my Mama’s dog for now – haha! She’s a puppy and has the cutest little overbite and sticks all of her teeth out and wiggles her whole body because she’s so excited to see you! Needless to say I could totally picture Rudy doing her Welcome Home Wiggles! I know we’ll get a dog someday – though J is more a fan of cats rather than dogs. Silly man! I’ll win him over yet 😉 Best of luck with the BlogFest presentation – I know you’ll rock it! xoxo
Hi Lindsay! We couldn’t have a dog until we moved out of the City because out last tiny apartment didn’t allow animals either, so I get that there is a time in your life that you can and cannot handle animals! At least you have your Mom’s dog to play with!! 🙂 Have a fabulous day!
I don’t do well with dogs they seem to bite and chase me. Yours however is completely adorable! Leaving tomorrow eek and so by packed!
Hi Megan! You haven’t met the right dogs yet then!! 🙂 Rudy would totally win you over.
Love this post. Of course, being friends on FB you know I have 2 yellow labs that are extremely spoiled and a very important part of our lives. They are our 4 legged kids and they have a hold of our hearts in their paws. Rudy is adorable. My husband and I have the same sorts of conversations. It is crazy to some but dog people totally get it 🙂 Enjoy yourself at BlogFest—I know it will be hard being away from your sweet baby but Dave will take great care of him.
Hi Dena! Oh yes, your doggies are beautiful — I love their coloring! And I can’t believe I’m a dog person now … but I sure am! Thanks for saying hello! Hope you’re doing well! 🙂
I cannot imagine life without a pet. I have had pets my entire life. You will have many wonderful years of love with your new best friend . I lost my 19 year old cat last year to old age now I have a rescue Himalayan cat who I am devoted to and adore. She hails from royal blood and she reminds me who is the boss. I also am careful how long I am gone and am devoted to her well being. I hope to see more post about your beautiful puppy.
Hi Alexia, I’m sorry about the passing of your old cat last year. But at least you rescued a beautiful new royal-blooded kitty! And I agree, I can’t imagine life before having Rudy! I look forward to seeing him grow up with us! 🙂 Hope you have a wonderful day. Thanks for saying hi!
What a cutie pie!!! I love dogs too much. Any time I pass a dog I stare at it for way too long as it walks away. Unfortunately our apartment does not allow for pets :(. But we did have a secret guinea pig once. It is really funny when their ‘business’ becomes a fascinating source of conversation for the family ;). I miss that little guy so much!
Hi Niki, Our last apartment didn’t allow pets either. And that’s cool you had a secret guinea pig. You rebel! hahah! 🙂 Happy Tuesday to you!
Enjoy the puppy! That’s funny you mentioned the licking… I’m a germ-phobe and the thought has always freaked me out about having a dog. LOL!
Hi Laura, Surprisingly, you totally don’t seem to mind when it’s your pet. How weird! 🙂 hahah! Happy Tuesday!
Rudy is such a cutie : ) You know what’s funny? I talk to babies like they are normal sized humans, but all animals get talked to like in baby talk.
Hahahahha Stacie, that makes me laugh! Love it! But I totally get it! 🙂
He is adorable! You are so right about dogs – they quickly become the focus of the family. And they know and love it too. Sasha is always the star of the show!
I had no idea something less than 10 pounds could control our home. But he sure can! 🙂 heheh! Love it! Have a great day, Alyssa. Say hi to Sasha!
I loved this post, I’m so glad I’m not the only one who does all those things. All of our frienda have cats, so they just don’t get it. Rudy is too cute! We have a welsh corgi, Harvey, and we just can’t stand to leave him alone anymore than absolutely necessary :). I’m just can’t help but show off pictures of him ANYONE willing to look. Puppies are great!
Hi Jessie! YAY for puppy pictures! I want to see a picture of Harvey!! Email me one!! aladygoeswest@gmail.com. 🙂
HA! So much the same, and yet SO different. My first two months with Moxie were RUFF! Maybe because we followed certain training guidelines that make life more difficult? IDK but there was lots of joy and lots of “I just want to sleep, dammit”. Here’s my first 24 hours post: http://thoroughlythriving.com/tiff-corner/24-hours-moxie/
Hi there! Yes, I can see how it could be rough. Our puppy is definitely pretty needy, but we’re not strict yet on training! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by to say hi!
He is so adorable! My husband and I have Jet and Rosie, our chocolate lab and boxer mix…they really do consume our lives and we consider them to be our children, for sure! And, I have said the same thing about talking about their bathroom behavior!…I find myself texting my husband about it, too!
I’m glad I’m not alone in that regard, Kelly. It’s funny stuff. Your dog names are perfect! 🙂 Rudy says hi! hahaha
How cute! We just adopted a maltipoo 2 and a half weeks ago and love her! Her name is Teresa.
Hi Amanda!! Yay for Teresa! Maltipoos are just adorable. I think they look like little teddy bears. I hope Teresa is a great addition to your family:)
Yes! I love that you are becoming dog obsessed. I am the same way and never thought I would be like that! Haha. I have two dogs. One is a mix named LInkin that I’ve had since college. He has always been my buddy. The other is a black Carolina Dog (kinda looks like a mix between a Border Collie and German Shepherd). She has such a personality. They are best buds and my babies! I love that you devoted a post to Rudy and I loved reading it. I haven’t done many dog posts on my blog but I think it is time! You have confirmed my thinking that it’s ok to love your dog that much!
Hi Lindsey, You have my full blessing (as well as many others) to do a post devoted to your dogs hahahh! They sound wonderful! 🙂
I can’t even handle how cute Rudy is! My dog is turning 14 this year, so it’s been a loooooong while since I’ve had a puppy around, and I definitely miss it sometimes. Not so much the accidents and the 2 AM wakeup calls, but there are few things in life that melt my heart more than puppies. Awwwr.
Hi Amanda! Thanks for the Rudy love. I agree that he is adorable. And I’m glad you have a dog buddy as well. Does it just keep getting better as you get to know them more? I bet! 🙂 Happy Tuesday to you, lady!
Those pictures are SO CUTE! I love the last one of you, Dave, and Rudy!
We have a cat named Penny Lane. She is almost 14 and was mine before we got married.
Hi Heather! I think you’ve mentioned Penny Lane before, and I love that name!! 🙂 Yay for kitties! Happy Tuesday to you!
Fur-babies are the best. I remember when we first adopted a grown-up dog several years ago, and I realized that I could totally now shop in all of those cute pet boutiques that I never noticed before. It’s like they all materialized the moment we brought him home! But he was a true fur-baby to me and I was totally obsessed.
Now that we adopted a new puppy after “real” babies it’s a bit different, but I still have tons of video of Olive chasing her tail that no one probably thinks is funny except me 🙂
Hi Emily, Well of course, I’m sure having little humans is perhaps a bit more consuming than little dogs. 🙂 Did you move to the ‘burbs yet?? 🙂 Hope all is well with you!!! Yay for dog stores!
I am a long time reader, first time poster! I loved this post. I just got a new Boston Terrier puppy this past March for my birthday and I am completely obsessed with him. I just love him so much and I NEVER thought I would be so dog crazy! I am completely on board with you and the licking. Biggie, my puppy, is lick crazy too and I don’t mind it at all?!
Hi Morgan Kate, First of all, HELLO! Thank you so much for reading and for saying hi. I LOVE that you’re a dog person. Biggie is an adorable name. And I bet you die for Biggie’s licks. I had no idea I wouldn’t be grossed out by a licking dog until I had my own little one. Boston Terriers are super cute too. What a wonderful birthday present. Props to whoever got him for you!! hahah! Have a fabulous day! Thanks again for saying hi!
Such a great post- I love hearing about Rudy! It is so amazing how we can go from a pet-less home to a home where “it is the pet’s home and we just live there” haha. They slowly take over every spot in the house. I find myself uttering words that sound like my mother yet I am talking to the dog! There are definitely some headaches with pets (especially puppies) but it is DEFINITELY worth every moment and all the adorable pics filling up your phone! Enjoy! 🙂
Yes to all of this! We got a puppy a week ago- and I found I was nodding my head in agreement to each one of these things! Puppies are great- and what a cute one you have!