[Discussion] I'm nervous to get a dog

I have had this EXACT feeling - it’s actually quite real and called post-puppy depression in a lot of places online. It’s a huge transition to suddenly be responsible for another being’s life and is definitely a decision to take seriously. I got my dog from the shelter after spending a month preparing for a dog - everything was ready and I thought I was too. The I had a full panic attack on the phone to my mom in the parking lot until she finally convinced me to go back in and adopt him. I am so glad I did. The first months are difficult and it is totally valid to feel more anxious. At the beginning, you and your dog are getting to know each other. Any new friendship requires spending time building trust! But that nagging worrying feeling slowly melts away as you find your new rhythm - you learn what your dog likes, you figure out a walking/play schedule, and you start training together (which REALLY helps with bonding). It takes patience, but it pays off. I’d say it took about six months to feel like a competent dog owner, and most of that was just me struggling to stop projecting my insecurities onto a dog. I used to wake up and feel so lonely living by myself in a new city. Now I wake up to a warm hug from my dog and immediately get a happy dose of vitamin D from our morning walk!

/r/dogs Thread