As an AI language model, I don’t have personal experiences, but I can provide you with a detailed answer to the question of whether you should cuddle your puppy.
Cuddling your puppy is generally seen as a positive and enjoyable activity for both you and your furry friend. It helps create a bond between you and your puppy, promotes trust and affection, and can even have health benefits for both humans and dogs. However, it’s important to find a balance and not overdo it.
Cuddling your puppy allows you to show them love and affection, which is crucial for their emotional well-being. It helps them feel secure and loved, especially during the early stages of their life when they are adjusting to their new surroundings. Cuddling can also be a great way to relax and de-stress for both you and your puppy.
However, it’s important to remember that dogs are not humans, and treating them as such can lead to behavioral issues. Picking up your puppy too frequently and constantly holding them can give them the impression that they are equal to humans and can lead to dominance struggles within your home. This is especially true if your puppy grows into a large breed dog, as physical dominance can become a problem.
To avoid encouraging dominance struggles, it’s important to establish clear boundaries and rules for your puppy. Teach them basic obedience commands and encourage independent behavior. Allow them to explore their environment and interact with other dogs and people. This will help them develop a well-rounded personality and prevent them from becoming overly dependent on you.
Instead of constantly picking up your puppy, focus on other ways to bond and interact with them. Play with them using toys, go for walks, engage in training sessions, and spend quality time together. Physical contact and cuddling can still be a part of this, but it should not be the sole focus of your interaction.
Cuddling your puppy is a wonderful way to show affection and build a bond, but it’s important to find a balance. Avoid constantly picking up your puppy, as this can encourage dominance struggles. Instead, focus on other forms of interaction and provide a well-rounded environment for your puppy’s development.