Is it normal to feel regret after getting a puppy?
Yes—feeling regret or overwhelm after getting a puppy is common, especially during the exhausting early adjustment period. It doesn’t automatically mean you made the wrong choice or don’t love your puppy.
A puppy can turn your routine upside down: interrupted sleep, constant supervision, accidents, chewing, and the feeling that you can’t just pop out whenever you want. Some people call this the “puppy blues.” The regret can show up even when you wanted a dog and are doing your best.
For many people, it eases as the puppy settles in, learns the ropes, and you get more sleep and a routine. Give yourself permission to ask for help and take breaks where you can. If the feeling sticks around, it’s okay to talk honestly with someone you trust about what would be best for both you and the puppy—including whether keeping the dog is manageable.