Should I Get a Puppy If I’ve Never Owned a Dog?

If you’ve never owned a dog before, bringing home a puppy can feel both exciting and intimidating.

Maybe you’ve been scrolling through adorable puppy pictures. Maybe you’ve been imagining family walks, cuddles on the couch, and that happy tail wag when you walk through the door.

But then reality sets in.

1. “What if I mess this up?”

2. “Am I ready for this?”

3. “Is a puppy too much for a first-time owner?”

4. "What will it cost?"

5. "Will I be able to survive the puppy stage?"

Sadly, studies have shown that 7-20% of all animals adopted at a shelter are returned.

Take a deep breath. Everyone who has ever owned a dog started somewhere. No one is born knowing how to raise a puppy. The real question isn’t whether you’ve owned a dog before — it’s whether you’re ready to learn and commit.

As professional dog breeders, we have a lot to say about this topic.

What Should a First-Time Dog Owner Know Before Getting a Puppy?

Puppies are wonderful — but they are also a lot of work, especially in the beginning.

Here are a few things every first-time owner should understand:

• The first few months are intense. Potty breaks, crate training, and supervision take time and consistency.

• Sleep might be disrupted at first. Puppies often wake during the night in the beginning.

• Training takes patience. Progress is gradual. Consistency matters more than perfection.

• Vet visits and supplies add up. The costs for food, grooming, vaccinations, and routine care are part of the commitment.

• Socialization is big early on. Positive experiences in the first few months help shape a confident adult dog.

If that list feels manageable — not terrifying — you’re already on the right track.

How Much Time Does a Dog Really Require?

This is one of the most important questions first-time owners can ask.

Time Commitment for a Puppy

In the early months, puppies require significant daily involvement. It’s not constant chaos — but it is consistent supervision. You can expect:

Supervision: Several hours a day of active supervision. Puppies should not have full freedom right away. They need structure and boundaries.

Potty Breaks: Every 1–2 hours during the day at first, gradually spacing out as they mature.

Training: 3–5 short sessions per day (5–10 minutes each). Training works best in small, positive bursts.

Exercise & Play: Short play sessions (15-30m) throughout the day. Puppies tire quickly but also recharge quickly.

Grooming (especially for doodles): Brushing multiple times per week and early grooming introductions.

In total, you’re looking at a few focused hours spread throughout the day, plus general awareness. The early stage is hands-on — there’s no way around that.

The good news? It doesn’t last forever.

How Expensive is Owning a Puppy?

Let’s talk about something practical for a minute — the first-year investment.

Bringing home a puppy is not just about the initial purchase. The first year tends to be the most expensive because you’re setting everything up from scratch. You’ll have your initial vet visits, vaccinations, and possibly spay or neuter depending on timing recommendations.

There are supplies like a crate, bedding, bowls, leash, collar, toys, grooming tools, and quality food. If you’re bringing home a doodle, professional grooming will also become part of your regular routine.

Many families also choose to invest in puppy training classes, which we strongly encourage.

That early guidance can make a world of difference. And of course, it’s wise to have a little cushion set aside for unexpected vet visits, because puppies have a talent for getting into things they shouldn’t.

Depending on your location and choices, the first year can realistically range anywhere from a couple thousand dollars and up. After that, expenses typically level out into a more predictable rhythm of food, grooming, and routine veterinary care.

We never share this to scare anyone off. We share it because preparation builds confidence.

When you know what to expect financially, you can focus on enjoying your puppy instead of feeling surprised by the bills.

Signs You Are Ready for a New Dog

You don’t need experience — but you do need readiness. You’re likely ready if:

• You can commit time every day for training and exercise.

• You’re financially prepared for food, grooming, and vet care.

• Everyone in your household agrees on rules and expectations.

• You understand that raising a puppy requires patience.

If you’re willing to put in the work early, the payoff is huge.

Signs You Might Want to Wait

There’s no shame in pressing pause. You might consider waiting if:

• You’re in the middle of a major life change (moving, new job, new baby).

• You work very long hours with no plan for midday care.

• You’re expecting a “low effort” pet.

• Your budget is stretched thin.

Puppies thrive on stability. If life feels chaotic right now, it may be wise to wait until things settle.

Is a Puppy the Best Choice — or Would an Adult Dog Be Better?

Some first-time owners assume a puppy is the only option. But that’s not always true.

Puppy	Adult Dog
Requires full training	May already be house-trained
High energy	More predictable temperament
Strong bonding opportunity	Often calmer from day one

If you love the idea of shaping a dog from the beginning and don’t mind the early chaos, a puppy can be incredibly rewarding. If you want fewer surprises, an adult dog might be worth considering.

Are Doodles Good for First-Time Dog Owners?

Many doodle breeds can be wonderful companions for first-time owners, but they are not “effortless” dogs.

Doodles are usually intelligent and eager to learn, which makes them very trainable. They tend to be family-oriented, forming close bonds with their people, and they are often social, people-focused dogs who enjoy being involved in everyday life.

At the same time, they do require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and mat-free. They need consistent mental stimulation to stay balanced, and they do best in homes that provide structure and clear expectations.

In other words, doodles are fantastic dogs, but they still need steady leadership. If you’re prepared to stay consistent and engaged, they can be a wonderful fit.

How Do I Know If I’m Truly Ready?

It helps to ask yourself a few honest questions.

Are you able to adjust your daily schedule to allow time for potty breaks and training sessions? Are you prepared for a few sleepless nights in the beginning?

Can you stay patient and calm when accidents happen? And are you ready to commit to caring for a dog for the next 10 to 15 years?

Bringing home a puppy isn’t just about wanting one. It’s about being ready to show up every single day.

And if you are, you’ll do just fine.

You Got This

You don’t need experience to be a great dog owner. You need patience, consistency, and a willingness to learn.

Yes, the early weeks can feel like a whirlwind. But before you know it, that little ball of fluff will grow into a steady, loyal companion who looks at you like you hung the moon.

If your heart is in the right place and you’re prepared to put in the work, a puppy might be one of the best decisions you ever make.

And remember — you don’t have to have it all figured out on day one.

Authored by the JLDD Team