The 21-Hour Puppy

Well, after talking about puppies, researching puppies, yearning for a puppy to cuddle and join him on walks, learning about crates and food and personalities and breeds and everything he could think of to read about, Jack finally settled on a Goldendoodle puppy. We spent quite a bit of time Thursday at the breeder's cuddling a litter of puppies. He chose one sweet little girl that we would pick up the next day after we purchased a crate, food, dishes, toys and whatever other paraphernalia seemed necessary. Friday we brought her home. An adorable pup, she loved to cuddle; she gamboled across the back lawn, played with her toys, chased us and her tail, and seemed to like her crate. She had an accident or two; but that was expected.

Then it was nighttime. I took her out just before I went to bed, spoke softly to her as I crated her and made sure she was settled down. Then she cried and carried on for a good hour after I turned in. Throughout the night, Jack was up with her about every hour and a half to let her outside. By the time morning came, I had had about 3 hours sleep; and Jack had even less and was completely and thoroughly exhausted. We then learned that we could expect more of the same for another 4-8 weeks; and we talked about whether or not to simply return her to the breeder and admit we weren't cut out to train a puppy. He went for his morning walk to think it over; and I told him I would support whatever decision he made.

So we brought her back to the breeder today -- less than 21 hours from the time we took her home. The breeder will quarantine her at her house for a week before rejoining the litter. We didn't ask for a refund; we just want them to find her a good home. Let's just say, we paid for our mistake. She's a very sweet pup; and I know she will make someone a wonderful pet -- just not us!

After we came home to a quiet house, Jack was talking to and petting "Puddles", our imaginary dog. For us, I think that's going to be the best pet ever!

Wishing you a wonderful "forever family", sweet girl!