From sleepless to settled: what Mabel taught us about early puppy support

Mabel relaxed and settled

Bringing a puppy home is often painted as pure joy—floppy ears, playful Zoomies, and snuggly evenings on the sofa. And while there are moments like that, the truth is that puppy life can also feel overwhelming, emotional, and downright exhausting.

This is the story of Kerry and her 9-week-old Cockapoo, Mabel based in Caversham, Reading.

It’s a story many new puppy guardians will recognise—where the love is real, but so are the sleepless nights, the self-doubt, and the “what now?” moments. And it’s also a story about how a little calm, connection, and kind support can change everything.

Step one: Sleep for everyone

When Kerry reached out, she was running on empty. Mabel had energy to spare, but no sense of how to settle. Kerry was finding that her ankles were being nipped (puppy teeth are sharp!) and Mable didn't have a clue how to settle.

You guessed it - Kerry had a little shadow - when Kerry moved so did Mabel, resulting in that feeling that you can’t leave the room—or even shower—without something the sound of paws following you!

The breakthrough moment? Helping Mabel feel safe in her crate.

We worked together to create a calm, positive space. Once Mabel started sleeping better, Kerry could rest too—and suddenly the world felt a little less impossible. It wasn’t just about sleep. It was about restoring calm—for both puppy and Kerry.

Kerry said “Before we started, I honestly didn’t know how I was going to navigate having such a lively and demanding puppy! Sarah’s guidance has been fundamental—not just for Mabel, but for me. From building routines, understanding behaviours, learning cues and enrichment, to walks and the outdoor world—it’s been invaluable"

Kerry’s strength: kindness, not control

What stood out about Kerry was her quiet commitment to doing what was best for Mabel. She wasn’t focused on “quick fixes” or ticking boxes. She simply wanted her puppy to feel safe and supported.

That mindset created space for real progress—like the day Kerry shared a photo of Mabel sitting calmly in her harness. We’d spent weeks getting to that point indoors, so when it was time to head outside, Mabel already felt prepared.

Kerry then said "I had forgotten what it was like to take a shower without a puppy waiting outside the door!"

Rewarding puppies can be challenging…..

Here’s a moment that still makes me smile—and reminds us how often we assume our puppies should know what to do when they come home to us but there is still so much more to learn.

Have you ever thrown a treat for a young dog to get - could even be in front of them for them to struggle to see where it is - often in us thinking - are they being silly, do they have issues with their eyes? 

None of these issues - like Mabel when we threw her a treat expecting her to chase after it she stared at Kerry blankly. It had landed right in front of her nose—but she hadn’t seen it.

This is something I now explain to all clients: puppies under 6 months often struggle to track treats. It’s completely normal.

✨ Top tip: Deliver treats clearly—either into your hand or right to your puppy’s mouth—until their coordination and visual tracking develops or slow down your throw to make it easier for them to follow where it lands.

Kerry then said "Mabel is now a well-adapted, amazing part of our family. I cannot imagine life without her."

Final thoughts

The early weeks with a puppy can feel anything but easy. You’re not alone if you’ve cried in the kitchen, questioned every decision, or googled “how to get puppy to sleep longer” at 2am.

But with the right support, and a plan that’s rooted in patience, kindness, and what works for you, things can get better. And fast.

Mabel is now a calm, happy part of the family. Kerry has the tools she needs—and the confidence that she’s doing brilliantly.

If you're in those early days and it doesn’t feel like the dream you hoped for—that’s okay.

Based in Berkshire and Feeling Overwhelmed?

Whether you’re in Reading, Caversham, or nearby, I offer personalised, force-free support to help you and your puppy settle into a calm, confident rhythm that fits your life.

Want to feel more connected, capable, and calm with your puppy? I’d love to help you and your pup find your rhythm—one step at a time, book a call to see how I can help.

Happy Pup!