Tara Sharma on life with puppy Tio: 'Like having another baby'
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Actress and host Tara Sharma has opened up about the joys and chaos of welcoming a new four-legged family member, describing herself as a 'new Mum again' after bringing home Tio, a three-month-old black Labrador puppy, nearly a month ago in August 2026.
The New Arrival
Taking to Instagram, the Masti actress shared a series of videos and pictures capturing her family's early moments with Tio. She described the experience as akin to having another baby — full of adorable milestones and unexpected chaos. Tio has already endeared himself to every member of the household, from Tara's children to extended family.
In her own words, Tara wrote: 'Like having another baby! Haaha Yep our Tio at almost 1 month with us and 3 months old has us wrapped around his finger rather paw!! I had forgotten how hectic puppy time is. Adorable but chaotic too.'
Puppy Parenting: The Real Work
Tara was candid about the realities of raising a puppy, noting that while her children adore Tio and help with play, the bulk of responsibilities — potty training, night wake-ups, and discipline — ultimately falls on her. She acknowledged support from husband Roopak Saluja, household help, and her mother, but was clear: 'Mammas are the ones who get the brunt of any tough-ish stuff!'
Tio's teething has been a particular challenge, causing him to nibble at feet. Tara said she has been taking tips from their veterinarian and fellow dog parents, clinging to the reassurance that 'it's a phase they will grow out of'.
A Family Legacy of Dog Training
Tara noted that her father, Partap Sharma, was an exceptional dog trainer — famously training Dog Detective Ranjha, about whom he wrote books. Drawing on that legacy, she said she is attempting to train Tio herself and remains open to seeking professional help if needed.
The family's previous dog, Tia, joined the household at an older age, making Tio's puppyhood a fresh and notably more intensive experience. Tara described Tio's schedule as broadly stable — sleeping from around 11 pm to 6:30–7 am — though broken-sleep nights do occur.
Tio's Personality and Milestones
Highlights from Tara's posts include Tio playing football with her son Kai — fitting, she noted, since Tio shares a birthday with footballer Leo Messi — and successfully using his pee mat. Tio's first bath and his attachment to a squeaky toy (previously belonging to Tia) also featured prominently.
Tara tied the post to her long-running digital diary The Tara Sharma Show, which began over 16 years ago as a chronicle of new motherhood, calling it apt to revisit that framing now as a first-time puppy mum. As the family continues to settle into life with Tio, she signed off with characteristic warmth: 'Onward and upward, touch wood.'