Surviving the First Weeks with a Puppy
Published: September 30, 2026 | Hosts: Megan Billingsley & Jaysie Walsh
Episode Summary
In this episode, dog industry professionals Megan Billingsley and Jaysie Walsh dive into surviving the first weeks of puppyhood, sharing essential strategies to navigate the chaos and set your new pup up for success.
Key Topics & Takeaways
We explore the emotional ups and downs of new puppy ownership and actionable tips for long-term balance:
The "Puppy Blues" Reality Check [4:22]: Acknowledging the sleep deprivation, major lifestyle shifts, and natural anxiety that feel just like bringing home a new baby—and why almost every new puppy parent goes through it.
The Power of the Routine [12:50]: How establishing a strict, predictable daily schedule for potty breaks, meals, play sessions, and scheduled naps builds confidence and accelerates training from day one.
The Art of Redirection [14:45]: Mastering the teething phase by learning how to swap hands, shoes, and furniture for high-value chews, plus recognizing mouthing as a major sign your puppy is actually overtired.
Socialization vs. Overstimulation [19:09]: Practical tips for gently introducing new sights, sounds, and surfaces during the critical development window without overwhelming your puppy's nervous system.
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