We picked up our Chihuahua/Jack Russell/Catahula Hound mix when he was three months old. I highly underestimated the amount of time and energy required for this puppy.

The first night he whined all night in his crate. It was so draining. My husband had to go out of town overnight and between the puppy and my two kids, I was ready to take Toby back to the breeder! I have cried and been so deeply depressed.

But this morning, after taking our pooch on a walk and letting him play in our fenced yard, I feel like I have turned the corner just a little bit. I keep reminding myself that this will not last forever and he will be a valuable member of our family in time. But the puppy phase is tough and it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed.