7 Important Life Lessons My Puppy Has Taught Me

After the loss of my 2 dogs in less than a year, getting a new puppy was the furthest thing from my mind, that’s for sure. Enter Memphis, this pup I have come to learn is my soul dog and has stolen my heart. She is now 5 months old, we brought her home at the age of 2 months and let me tell you, I had completely forgotten the trials, tribulations AND lessons of starting over again and training a new pup as it has been over 13 years since I embarked on that journey last.

It has been quite a re-learning curve (we will call it) BUT I have come to realize that training a puppy has taught me more about life than I ever imagined. The lessons have a way of grounding you, of reminding you what matters most in this often chaotic world.

Here are just a few of the lessons I have learned about ME and LIFE over the past few months of spending time with and training Memphis. I hope in reading this post, it gives you some new perspectives, insights and lessons you can take forward with you on your path.

Slow Down and Enjoy Life

In those early morning walks and playful afternoons, my puppy constantly pulls me into the present. For her, everything is new and worth exploring, from a single blade of grass to a breeze passing through. It’s a reminder that life isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about savoring the steps in between. We’re here for a short time, and if we’re always racing forward, we miss what’s right in front of us.

Patience is a Real Superpower

Puppies are bundles of energy and mischief, and they require endless patience. From learning basic commands to housebreaking, these things take time—and there are plenty of slip-ups. Progress, I’ve learned, isn’t always immediately visible. Patience requires belief – belief that change is happening, even when it’s hard to see. Extending that same patience to ourselves and others changes how we navigate life.

Have Fun and Embrace Simplicity

My puppy finds pure joy in a tossed ball or an impromptu roll in the grass. Watching her, I’m reminded of how complex we tend to make life and how simple happiness can really be. Joy is often found in the moments we overlook or take for granted, and sometimes it’s as simple as letting go and being present.

Love Without Holding Back

My puppy doesn’t hesitate when she shows love. Whether she’s wagging her tail so hard her whole body wobbles, or just curling up beside me, she loves with her whole being. This kind of love is raw, vulnerable, and deeply inspiring. It reminds me to love fully, to give freely, and to be present with those I care about.

Find Your People—and Don’t Worry About the Rest

Not everyone will love a dog, just like not everyone is “our person.” My puppy doesn’t try to win over everyone; she’s simply himself, and the people drawn to her find her naturally. The same lesson applies to us. We don’t have to mold ourselves for others’ approval. Showing up as we are lets the right people come naturally.

Forgive, Then Move On

There are times when I’ve been frustrated with my puppy for chewing on something she shouldn’t or taking too long to respond. Yet the moment has passed, and she’s back with a wagging tail and eager spirit, no grudges in sight. It’s a reminder of the power of forgiveness, and how holding onto resentment only weighs us down. Like my puppy, we can learn to let go and move forward, embracing each new moment with an open heart.

Unconditional Love is Unmatched

Finally, there’s no love quite like that of a dog. It’s a love that doesn’t change with circumstances or moods. It’s a reminder to show up for the people we love, to be there without expecting anything in return. This kind of love is rare and precious, and it’s something I aspire to give as freely as my puppy does.

In training my puppy, I’ve found life’s lessons beautifully illustrated. These little moments, the ones where we’re just being, are the ones that remind us who we truly are. Now all this is not to say that I still don’t need to continually work on these things and improve in these areas but like everything else, it’s a work in progress and I am so grateful for her and the lessons she is teaching me.