Expert Advice from Sarah Rutten on Managing Puppy Challenges
SYDNEY — Many Australian pet owners are grappling with ‘puppy remorse’, a challenging period of adjustment after bringing home a new dog, according to expert Sarah Rutten. Despite the common perception of puppy adoption as a joyful experience, the reality often includes exhaustion and uncertainty.
Sarah Rutten, a renowned canine behaviourist and author, highlights that ‘puppy remorse‘ stems from unrealistic expectations clashing with the demands of caring for a new pet. Routines shift dramatically, and the need for constant supervision can lead to feelings of regret among new dog owners.
Rutten explains that social media contributes to these unrealistic expectations by showcasing an idealised version of puppy life. “We see photos of calm puppies, but not the midnight toilet trips or the chewed shoes,” she says.
Practical Steps to Overcome Puppy Remorse
She also recommends managing the home environment with tools like puppy pens and seeking early advice from qualified trainers. Rutten reassures owners that the intense demands of early puppyhood are temporary and that the relationship with their pet will grow more rewarding over time.
Rutten is working on a new book to expand on these insights, following her first work, “The Canine Perspective: Using Force-Free Methods to Unleash Your Dog’s Paw-tential.” Her upcoming book aims to further assist dog owners in understanding and building strong relationships with their pets.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 2 April 2026, 4:34 pm
