I used to live in a constant state of “am I doing this right?”—especially when it came to raising our puppy, Waffles. Every choice felt like a high-stakes decision: what to feed him, how to train him, how much to socialize, when to start grooming… you get the idea.
And don’t get me started on all the advice—Google, vets, breeders, pet store employees, TikTok trainers, random neighbors at the dog park. Everyone meant well, but the noise was overwhelming.
I wanted to be a great dog mom. I wanted a happy, healthy pup. But somewhere along the way, I realized I was stressing myself out so much that I wasn’t even enjoying him.
Here are the mindset shifts that changed everything for me—and might just help you breathe a little easier too.
1. Progress Over Perfection
This was a biggie. I used to think I had to do everything just right or I’d mess up my dog for life. (Dramatic? Maybe. But it felt real at the time.)
Now, I give myself permission to grow with my dog. I learn, I adjust, and I forgive myself when I make a mistake. Dogs are resilient, and guess what? You’re doing better than you think.
2. No One Right Way to Raise a Dog
There’s not one perfect food, training method, or schedule that works for every family. And that’s okay.
Once I stopped trying to fit into someone else’s version of “ideal dog parenting” and focused on what worked for us, I felt instant relief. You’re not failing if your routine doesn’t look like that influencer’s on Instagram. Your dog doesn’t need perfect. Your dog needs you.
3. Simplify the Decisions
I used to stand in the pet food aisle with three options in my cart, reading labels like I was decoding the Da Vinci Code.
Now? I trust myself more. I’ve learned how to read labels and spot red flags, and I don’t chase trends—I choose what fits my dog’s needs, my budget, and my values. Done.
(If you’re still spinning in that aisle, girl, let me help. It doesn’t have to be that complicated.)
4. Your Energy Matters More Than Your Expertise
This one hit me hard. Dogs are incredibly intuitive—they pick up on our stress, our worry, our confidence (or lack of it).
The more I calmed down, the more my dog did too. I didn’t need to be an expert—I just needed to show up with calm leadership and love. That’s what makes you a great dog mom. Not a perfect one
5. Every Season Has Its Wins (and Its Challenges)
Puppyhood isn’t forever. Teething, potty training, and “zoomies at 11pm” won’t last forever.
But neither will the snuggles, the tiny paws, or that adorable way they follow you everywhere.
Now, instead of wishing hard seasons away, I try to be present. To laugh more. To document the messy, imperfect moments. Because they’re the ones I miss most when they’re gone
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or just plain exhausted—you're not alone. You love your dog fiercely, and that’s what matters most.
The calmer I became, the calmer my dog became. And it all started with choosing a mindset rooted in grace, simplicity, and trust.
You’ve got this! And if you ever need a guide, a nudge, or just someone to say “you’re doing great,” I’m here. 🐾
Want help simplifying your dog’s food choices?
You don’t have to figure this out alone.
0 Comments