What raising a puppy is teaching me about art

If you’ve been following me for a while, you will know that we welcomed Ned into the household on Friday, 7th March. It has been somewhat of a rollercoaster as we get to know each other and find our feet as puppy parents. It has been a very long time since I lived with a puppy, and never one as young as Ned. On Day One made an immediate attachment to me and followed me around all day as he timidly explored his new house and garden.

On the second day however, things went surprisingly pear-shaped very quickly, as he came out of his shell and started showing us his cheeky side, and I began to wonder what on earth we had done!! It would be fair to say that the first 48 hours brought every emotion under the sun, and I ended the day in tears, thinking I was the worst puppy mum in the world!

But, the following day, we introduced the crate, which has been a total godsend. Having containment has allowed life to enter into some kind of routine, which is great for all of us. As I’ve been adjusting to life with Ned, I’ve realized that many of the lessons I’m learning from raising a puppy also apply to my creative practice ( and life in general really!). Here's what I have realised...

Consistency

Routine and consistency is essential. Just as Ned thrives on knowing when it’s time to eat, play, and rest, my art practice also benefits from showing up regularly. Creating consistently, even when I don’t feel particularly inspired, strengthens my skills and keeps momentum going. Showing up daily—whether for training a puppy or for my creativity—makes all the difference in progress over time.

Patience

Puppies (and humans, it seems) do not learn overnight. Sometimes it feels like we are taking one step and three steps back. And sometimes it feels like that in my art too. Some days, everything clicks into place, while others feel like an uphill struggle. But just as I remind myself to be patient with Ned, I must also extend that same grace to myself when I’m creating. Progress isn’t linear, and learning takes time.

Learning Through Mistakes

Ned has had accidents, chewed things he shouldn’t, and sometimes decides it's more fun to run away that come when he is called. Yet, each mistake is an opportunity to teach and refine. But boy can it be frustrating!! The same is true in art. Mistakes are not failures but stepping stones and part of the learning process, By embracing mistakes we grow.

Finding What Works

Just as every puppy is different, so too are we. Like introducing the crate, some things work, while some don't. It’s the same with my creative practice—I need to experiment to find what methods, materials, and processes bring me the most joy and fulfillment. It’s a process of discovery, and being open to trying different approaches allows for growth.

Boundaries

Boundaries are crucial for both puppies and artists. Ned needs clear boundaries to feel secure and to learn what’s acceptable. Similarly, I need boundaries and limitation in my art practice otherwise I end up feeling overwhelmed. Boundaries help me to carve out dedicated time to create, protecting my creative energy, and learning when to say no to distractions.

Separation

At first, Ned wanted to be by my side 24/7, but he’s slowly learning that it’s okay to be alone for short periods (even though he still cries!). Similarly, I sometimes need to step away from my art. Taking breaks, going for a walk, or engaging in a different activity often leads to fresh inspiration and a renewed perspective. Time apart from the creative process can be just as valuable as time immersed in it. And when you';ve had a period of separation it makes coming back so much more fun!!

Adaptability

Having a new member of the household who demands a lot of time and attention can be disruptive. In those initial days I wondered how I was ever going to be able to take a shower or make myself cup of tea again. But, you adapt (once again - the crate is making this possible) but I work in shorter periods of time, perhaps relocating where i work and move the crate into the studio when I need to.

Self compassion

It's so important to be able to be kind to yourself when you are new at something. Not knowing all of the answers or how to do it 'right' can be really difficult for some people so taking time to give yourself a break and be kind to yourself when you get things wrong can help build resilience, reduce anxiety and improve your motivation to try again.

Having Ned in my life has been a whirlwind but very welcomed. In my opinion life is better with a dog. He is teaching me invaluable lessons that extend far beyond puppy training. Whether in art or in life, the process is never perfect, but with consistency, patience, and a willingness to learn, pay dividends in growth and joy, in your creative practice (with a very well behaved dog).