10 Lessons from Having a Puppy

It's my puppy's 6 month birthday and I have been reflecting on some of the lessons learnt. Back in January, we had no plans to even get a dog. Despite talking about it for years, the timing never seemed right. But by the end of February, we had an 8-week-old puppy, Teddington, living with us! And of course, we're not alone. The research shows that having a dog can lead to much healthier owners in both body and mind. Longitudinal surveys, for instance, across Germany and Australia found that people who consistently own a pet are the healthiest group, making 15% fewer annual doctor visits!

Teddington is a cross between a Border Collie and a Poodle (a Bordoodle). In the context of Wellbeing, I've learned so much from him in the last 6 months. I haven't had a dog since i was 23, so it has been a while since I had that responsibility. Here are some of the lessons I've personally learned from having Teddington join our family:

1. Being Present and in the Moment: I love the way Teddington is so present and goes from moment to moment, not living in his head, but experiencing the moment.
2. Consistency: Having a dog has introduced a daily routine and structure, which has been really beneficial for every member of our family! Even if they moan about it.
3. Teaching Responsibility: Caring for Teddington has been a great lesson in responsibility and empathy for my 17-year-old child, who has been an only child all this time. Suddenly, there's someone else needing attention!
4. Social Interaction & learning: I have met so many dogs and owners and learned about breeds I'd never heard of. Many of these owners have shared many insights about the world of owning a dog! You feel part of this community and can hang out in the dog park if you want to find someone to chat to.
5. Training: We have never trained a puppy before but have learned so much from YouTube! One trainer emphasized that the most important command is "come" so the dog returns when called. Still trying to master this one, it's a bit hit and miss at the moment, but we will get there.
6. Mental Resilience: Walking out of the room and coming back five minutes later to the best greeting ever is an incredible feeling. We all like to feel that we belong and are welcome. The research also shows that spending time with a dog can release endorphins and reduce stress hormones, leading to lower anxiety levels.
7. Simple Pleasures: A simple twig in the park brings Teddington great joy and pleasure. Plus, as dogs require regular walks and playtime, their owners get to move their bodies and experience the benefits of functional exercise.
8. Not everyone likes dogs: whilst we love Teddington, not everyone loves dogs, and we need to be sensitive to that.
9. Pet-Friendly Businesses: I've been making a list!
10. Wellbeing at Work - finally of course, as there's a lot of evidence to show that having a dog in the workplace can lead to a happier, healthier, and more productive work environment, benefiting both employees and the organization. Some workplaces are even acknowledging the importance of employees' pets as family with "pawternity leave." Good to know!

If you're considering getting a dog, there are many dogs seeking a loving home that you can share. It took us a long time to make the decision to get a dog, and then it all happened extraordinarily quickly. And yes, whilst there have been many challenges, the benefits have far outweighed the challenges in my experience. Happy 6 month birthday Teddington!