Can you give a puppy too much attention? Here’s What to Do Next

How much should you play with a puppy?

Play with your puppy for at least 20 minutes a day, in addition to giving him 20 to 30 minutes of exercise. A bored puppy is a destructive puppy. Playing is also a great way to bond with your puppy, and it helps her to interact with people in a positive manner.

How much attention does a 3-month-old puppy need?

At 3-months-old, your puppy will still be in their socialization period, and will be continuing to learn good potty training habits. Until your puppy is 4-months-old, your focus should be on good socialization, potty training, and household manners. All of which require considerable attention.

You have plenty of time to work on teaching tricks and obedience later. Right now, you’ll need to spend time creating a well-rounded dog and ensuring you don’t let bad habits develop.

For socialization, you’ll want to spend time every day exposing your puppy to something new, while making sure they aren’t overwhelmed or scared.

Good socialization activities should leave your puppy happy and content with the experience, instead of scaring your puppy or making them uncomfortable.

When I raise puppies, I often spend at least 2-4 hours a day just focusing on new socialization opportunities.

This includes things like:

  • Walking in a new place, such as through a secluded, wooded trail on dirt instead of on a sidewalk in a bustling town
  • Playing sounds to get my puppy used to thunderstorms, a falling pot or pan, fireworks, sirens, and more
  • Providing opportunities for enrichment and exploration through new puzzle toys and games
  • Dressing up in a variety of outfits, so that my puppy born in the summer doesn’t panic when people wear snowsuits, hats, and scarves in the harsh Midwest winters
  • Visiting friend’s dogs, or a puppy socialization class, to meet a variety of dogs and playmates
  • Experiencing an elevator, vehicles, hair dryers, grooming procedures, and any other activity they may experience in their life
  • Socialization is much more than just attending a puppy class. You should expose your puppy to all the things they might encounter in their life!

    While puppies won’t have full bladder control until 4-6 months old, you should still be seeing very few accidents by 3-months-old if you’ve been setting your puppy up for success. If not, it’s time to reach out to both the veterinarian and a trainer to make a plan moving forward.

    Potty training and socialization can be spread throughout the day, but you should expect a 3 month old puppy to be taking up most of your time outside of work.

    There’s plenty to be done at this age!

    It’s also vital that your pup has things to do when you can’t give them your attention. A good range of toys is vital for this reason, and make sure you change them up regularly. We recommend Bark Box for this, as your pup will get a new box of toys every month, and it makes for a fun experience for all!

    You might also like to read our post, Why Is My Puppy So Naughty? (Explained)

    Can I cuddle my puppy too much?

    If you can’t watch the puppy closely, he should always be in his quiet area. Cuddle time is important too, but don’t overdo it. … Puppies need affection and physical comfort, but don’t give too much unless you want to spoil your pup.

    How Much Free Time Do I Give My Puppy?!

    Bringing a new puppy home can be a joyous time. For you, it means having a cute new member of the family. But it does come with a number of additional responsibilities. And for your furry new friend it means a new family and environment, but being away from their mother.

    Your puppy’s new environment affects their emotions and socialization which they often will carry throughout their life. They will need adequate training, playtime, and mealtimes for their own growth and development.

    However, you may find yourself asking, “How much attention do I have to give my puppy?” As their new nurturer and guardian, you have to know the right kind of care they need and how much time should be given to them. Find out all the information you need to know how much attention your pup, needs!