top of page
  • Writer's pictureVivek Nair

6 Life Lessons from My Furry Teacher: What My Puppy Has Taught Me in Two Years

Updated: Dec 11, 2023



Two years ago, I welcomed a little ball of fluff named Theo into my home. As a 40-year-old, I was excited to add a furry companion to my life, but I had no idea the impact this little Golden Retriever would have on me. From the moment Theo wagged his tail and looked up at me with his big, brown eyes, I knew he was more than just a pet. He was a teacher, a mentor, and a best friend. Over the last two years, Theo has taught me valuable life lessons that I never expected to learn from a puppy. From patience and perseverance to love and loyalty, my furry friend has been by my side every step of the way. In this blog post, I want to share the lessons that Theo has taught me in the last two years, and how they have changed my life for the better.

  • Love Your Loved Ones Unconditionally: One of the first things Theo taught me is the power of unconditional love. From the moment he came into my life, he has shown me nothing but love and affection, no matter what. He is always there to greet me with a wagging tail and a kiss on my face, no matter how my day has been. He reminded me that true love is not conditional and that it is important to show your loved ones how much you care for them, no matter what.

Before Theo, I was guilty of taking my loved ones for granted. I would only show them affection when I needed something or when I was in a good mood. But Theo taught me that love is not something that should be given with conditions. It should be given freely and without reservation. He reminded me that love is not just a feeling, but a choice. And it is a choice that I make every day when I wake up and look into his big, brown eyes.


Theo has also taught me the importance of forgiveness and understanding. He never holds a grudge, no matter how many times I might scold him or correct him. He always forgives me and moves on, and that has reminded me to do the same with the people I love. He has shown me that forgiveness is not just an act of kindness, but also a sign of maturity and strength.

  • Playtime Cannot Wait: Theo is a playful and energetic puppy, and he reminded me that life is too short to not have fun. He taught me to take time out of my busy schedule to play with him, and that it is important to make time for the things that bring you joy. He showed me that sometimes, it is okay to let go of responsibilities and just have fun.

Before Theo, I was guilty of constantly working and not taking time out to play. I would always put my work before my leisure, and I would rarely make time for the things I enjoyed. But Theo has reminded me that playtime is not just for children, it is for everyone. He has reminded me that taking time out to play, whether it's with him or with other activities, is important for maintaining a healthy balance in life.


Playing with Theo has also reminded me of the importance of laughter and joy. He has reminded me that laughter is the best medicine and that it is important to find humor in life. He has reminded me that joy is contagious and that it is important to share it with others.

  • Be There For Your People: Theo is always there for me when I need him, and he has taught me the importance of being there for the people you love. He has reminded me that sometimes, all someone needs is a listening ear or a comforting hug. He showed me that it's important to be there for your loved ones, no matter what.

Before Theo, I was guilty of being too busy for my loved ones. I would always put my work and my own needs before theirs, and I would rarely make time for them. But Theo has reminded me that being there for your loved ones is not just an act of kindness, it is an act of love. He has reminded me that sometimes, the best thing you can do for someone is to just be there for them.


Theo has also taught me the importance of listening and understanding. He never interrupts me when I am talking, and he always listens to me with his ears perked up and his eyes focused. He has reminded me that listening is not just an act of kindness, it is an act of love. And that it is important to listen to the people we love, with our hearts and our minds.

  • Give Everyone Your Complete Attention: Theo has taught me the importance of giving my full attention to the people and tasks in front of me. He never seems to be distracted by anything else when he is with me, and he is always fully present at the moment. He has reminded me that it is important to give my full attention to the people I am with, whether it's my loved ones or my colleagues so that I can truly understand and connect with them.

Before Theo, I was guilty of multitasking and not giving my full attention to the people around me. I would always have my phone or my laptop in front of me, and I would constantly check my emails or social media. But Theo has reminded me that multitasking is not always the most effective or efficient way to work and that it is important to give my full attention to one task or person at a time.


Theo has also reminded me of the importance of mindfulness and being present at the moment. He never worries about the past or the future, he always lives in the present moment. He has reminded me that it is important to focus on the present and not to be constantly worried about the past or the future.

  • Be As True And Expressive as You Can Be: Theo is always true to himself and expressive of his feelings, and he has reminded me that it is important to be true to myself and express my feelings. He never hides his feelings, he always shows them through his actions and his body language. He has reminded me that it is important, to be honest with myself and others, and to express my feelings healthily and constructively.

Before Theo, I was guilty of hiding my feelings and not being true to myself. I would always put on a mask and pretend to be something I'm not so that I would fit in with others. But Theo has reminded me that it is important to be true to myself and to express my feelings honestly and authentically. He has reminded me that it is important to be true to myself and to be true to my values.


Theo has also reminded me of the importance of vulnerability and authenticity. He never pretends to be something he's not, and he is always willing to show his vulnerability. He has reminded me that it is important to be vulnerable and authentic and that it is important to show my weaknesses and my strengths.

  • Rest Is Important: Theo is always well-rested and energized, and he has reminded me that rest is important for maintaining a healthy balance in life. He always takes time to rest and sleep, and he never seems to be tired or stressed. He has reminded me that it is important to take time out of my busy schedule to rest and recharge so that I can be at my best for the things that matter most.

Before Theo, I was guilty of not getting enough rest and always pushing myself to the limit. I would always be working or doing something, and I would rarely take time out to rest. But Theo has reminded me that rest is not just for the weak, it is for everyone. He has reminded me that it is important to take time out to rest and recharge so that I can be at my best for the things that matter most.


Theo has also reminded me of the importance of balance and self-care. He always takes time to rest and play, and he never neglects his health or his well-being. He has reminded me that it is important to find balance in my life and that it is important to take care of myself so that I can be at my best for the people I love.


In conclusion, my furry teacher, Theo, has taught me many valuable life lessons in the last two years. From the importance of giving my complete attention to the people and tasks in front of me, to the importance of rest and self-care, Theo has reminded me of the important things in life. He has taught me to love unconditionally, to always make time for play, to be there for my loved ones, to be true and expressive, and to be mindful of the present moment.


Theo has not only been my companion but also my teacher, and I am grateful for all the lessons he has taught me. He has reminded me to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life, and to always put love and kindness first. Theo has brought so much joy, laughter, and love into my life, and I am forever grateful for the time we have shared.


In short, my pup Theo has been my constant companion and has taught me a lot about love, patience, and life. I would encourage everyone to adopt a pet, as they are not just companions, but also teachers in their own right. They will teach you valuable life lessons that you will carry with you forever.

15 views0 comments
bottom of page