Health lessons from a new Puppy
If you’ve ever had a new puppy, you’ll know it’s a mix of joy, chaos, and wondering what on earth you’ve just signed up for. Freddie, my new working cocker spaniel, has been all of those things, and then some.
In just eight weeks we’ve had 5 a.m. wake-up calls, endless “sit” and “stay” reminders, a small disaster involving ripped clothes, and a phase where he thought biting my legs was a fun game. Ouch.
But somewhere between the chaos and the cuteness, Freddie has been teaching me some surprisingly important lessons. And they don’t just apply to dogs, they apply to health, gut issues, and feeling good in your own skin.
Here’s what I’ve learned.
1. When You’re Stuck, Call in the Professionals
When Freddie first arrived, I thought I could wing it. I’ve had dogs before, I know the basics… right? Wrong. When things weren’t going the way I wanted, he was biting and wasn’t listening, I felt completely out of control, I called in a professional trainer.
And do you know what? It made all the difference.
The same is true for health. If you’ve got IBS, brain fog, acid reflux, uncontrollable diarrhoea, or any nagging health issue, don’t just “wait and see” for months or years. Get help. Call in someone who knows what they’re doing and can guide you through. The relief is worth it.
2. Get Up, Get Out, Get Moving
Freddie has zero interest in my preferred lie-in. By 5 a.m. he’s bouncing around, and by 6:15 we’re out walking. And you know what? I love it.
Fresh air wakes my brain up. Walking gets my lymphatic system moving, which helps my body clear out waste and keep inflammation in check. It gives me time to think, to ruminate (and not just about dog training), and to feel calmer before the day even starts.
You don’t have to be up at dawn, but getting outside and moving every day does wonders for both mind and body.
3. Consistency Is Everything
With puppies, you can’t be half-hearted. You have to say the same things, do the same training, and reinforce the same rules every single day. Otherwise? Chaos.
It’s the same with your health. Your body thrives on consistency. Eat well most of the time, move regularly, keep your sleep routine steady, and your body will respond. Over time you’ll notice better sleep, better energy, better moods, and yes, better poops.
4. Patience, Patience, Patience
I’m not naturally patient. I like things done yesterday. But Freddie works at puppy pace, and I’ve had to slow down to match him.
And here’s the magic: slowing down has made a difference not just to him, but to me. It’s given me more headspace, less stress, and more joy in the small moments.
When it comes to health, the same rule applies. Healing takes time. Your gut doesn’t fix itself overnight, your hormones don’t balance instantly, and your energy won’t bounce back in a week. But with patience and persistence, you’ll get there, and it will be worth it.
5. Be Aware of the Bumps in the Road
Walking Freddie in the fields has taught me to be aware of what’s ahead. As I approach the corners where another dog might suddenly appear, I slow down, stay alert, and have a plan in my head for how I’ll handle it.
It’s exactly the same with health. Big events, holidays, parties, stressful work weeks, can be bumps in your road. If you spot them early and have a plan, you’re far less likely to trip up. Think ahead: What can I do to keep myself on track? What’s my backup if things don’t go to plan? That little bit of foresight can make all the difference.
6. Pay Attention
With a puppy, you can’t switch off. You need to be present, watching what they’re doing, looking out for what’s ahead, and definitely not scrolling through your phone while they’re off exploring.
Your body deserves the same attention. Don’t eat while watching TV or scrolling on your phone. Pay attention to your food, your hunger, and how you feel while you eat. Then notice how you feel the next morning. If you wake up feeling great, what did you do the day before? If you feel awful, what was different? Those little clues are gold when it comes to figuring out what really works for you.
7. Reward Yourself
And finally, don’t forget to reward yourself when you get it right. Rewards don’t have to be food or alcohol. It could be a spa day, a facial, a new pair of shoes, a night at the theatre, whatever feels like a treat to you.
The point is to celebrate your successes and the benefits you’re feeling. Your body and brain thrive on that positive reinforcement. Every time you acknowledge and celebrate the wins, you make it more likely you’ll keep going.
The Bottom Line:
Freddie might be a handful, but he’s a very cute reminder that health (and life) is all about:
Asking for help when you need it
Moving your body every day
Sticking with good habits
Being patient with the process
Looking ahead so the bumps don’t throw you off course
Paying attention so you can learn what your body is telling you
Rewarding yourself so you keep the momentum going
I’d love to help and support you to find and meet your health goals.
Why not book a free discovery call? You can meet Freddie, and we can decide on the best way forward
Jackie xx
