Hi, I am definitely no expert as I am a new dog owner to an Irish Setter puppy called Reuben. He has been with us since 8 weeks old and will be 11 weeks old this friday. My husband grew up with Dogs and me cats! I have to honestly say it has been easier having a baby than the last two weeks BUT it has already stared to turn around as there is now some routine, i am begininng to understand reuben's needs, wether he is tired, hungry or needs a pee etc and achieving some basic training. I know that I have a breed of dog with huge energy levels and is renouned for being wilful but he is a baby and this is just a phase. I have booked him into training already and i am so in love with him already. Okay I don't do much housework (as have young son too) but to be fair he does nap and sleeps at night in his crate.
We brought reuben home on a Saturday and on the Monday I felt awful as I felt like I had made a huge mistake and was trapped(haven't told anyone else that as embarassed and ashamed). However i think this was only because my son felt a little neglected and I felt guilty. But my son adores him now and can't wait to see him in the morning, feed him, train him, give him treats etc. And I watch them in the Garden playing together and realise how lovely they both are together. So yes it is hard work, chaotic, stressful but for only a short period of time (i hope anyway haha)
By the way prior to putting reuben to bed tonight he had his usual mad frenzy ie tearing around the house and causing havoc and instead of feeling stressed my hubby and I watched and just laughed at how crazy our clumsy, floppy eared but beautiful dog was. And then he was well worn out for bed - result!