How is a Puppy Like a Newborn?

After we had made the decision to get a puppy, but before we actually got her, I told my mom about our decision. She didn't think it was a wise move for our family right now, and she voiced all her concerns to me, ending with, "Amy, it's just like having a newborn baby." "I know, I know," I said. But, even though I knew, I wasn't really prepared. Once again, adding a sweet, innocent little creature to our family has rocked my world! The truth is, in many ways having a new puppy is like having a newborn, or a toddler, but, in many wonderful ways, it is sooooo much easier. Maybe I can make it through this newborn period without the assistance of medication...maybe.

How is a puppy like a newborn baby or a toddler?

She poops and pees ALOT.

She is most attracted to the things that are forbidden.

She would much rather play with a piece of paper that makes a crinkly noise than an actual toy.

She puts everything in her mouth.

She wakes up crying in the middle of the night.

I find myself lying in bed praying, "Lord please don't let her wake up..."

If I turn my back for a few seconds, she is sure to get into something she shouldn't.

She can't communicate in terms that I can understand. She wines alot and I don't know what she wants.

I feel like I can't get anything done when I'm at home with her.

I'm exhausted at the end of the day.

She is adorable and I just want to hug her everytime she looks at me.

How is a puppy soooo much easier than having a newborn?

If I need to go somewhere, I just lock her up and leave her at home.

Or if I just need a break, I put her in her "safe puppy area" (a room blocked off with baby gates) and go about my business.

I can put her food down and walk away instead of having to sit with her while she eats. (I remember when Katie was a baby, she would nurse for 45 minutes every 2 1/2 hours!!)

She requires much less "stuff".

It's not nearly as heartbreaking to let her cry it out at night.

All in all, this puppy is alot of work, and I feel like I'm going through ups and downs just like I did with each of my baby girls. But, I'm hopeful that this roller coaster ride will be much smoother and shorter than the other two. I hope. Only time will tell...