Rehoming dog: contacting the breeder

[koofie]

Please no flames... this was a hard decision to come to and I am looking for help and support only. If you don't agree, please click the back button

We have two Australian Shepherds. the first we bought from a breeder several states away from us, because DH wanted a specific color and we could not find one in the area. When my very old dog died a few months later, we visited local shelters and happened upon an Australian Shepherd that was not breed standard but was a wonderful dog (I wasn't looking for an Aussie at all, and because DH picked out our other pup this was my choice).

Fast forward about a year and a half, and we have been having issues with behavior of the first Aussie. He is very stubborn and dominant and though we have tried several different methods of training, he hasn't responded. To add to this, we are overwhelmed with two dogs and two kids, so while he might respond to consistent daily training, we are not able to do this at this time.

This has led to our dogs being outdoor dogs or in their crates. The first dog is not a good "house dog" yet because he doesn't respond to directions and jumps up on the kids. I think both dogs are suffering and we've decided that rehoming the first dog is in the best interest of everyone.

Since he came from a breeder, we are obligated to contact the breeder to let her know and give her the right to take him back. I'm thinking she won't want to since he is fixed and we're about a 14-18 hour drive away.

I'm not sure what to put in the letter because we don't want to burn a bridge with her, and we'd like to leave the option open to purchase Aussies from her or other breeders in the (much distant) future, when circumstances allow us to provide a better home for a dog. I need help with the wording, could anyone help make the letter sound nice and let her know how much this pains us, but we think it is best for the dog? We plan to either place with a breed rescue group or find a good home through friends, when we can ensure the dog has all of his needs met and more.

Thanks in advance!

[lonegirl]

Just be honest with her.
What size of property do you have? Aussies are working dogs and need the exercise and space to help prevent behavioural issues. I love them and think they are beautiful but have seen many with behavioural issues, so would not choose to have one.
If she doesn't want to take th dog back then look at Aussie rescues.

[stormborn]

I'd just say what you posted here. I think any good breeder would either take the dog back or direct you to a local breed rescue; I'm sure it's a situation they are used to dealing with.

[LeahBoo]

They may also have a waiting list, or know of someone thinking about adopting, but maybe can't afford a pup.

[Oubliette8]

I would not mention any other rehoming options in your letter. All the reputable breeders I know will take back ANY dog of their breeding. His being fixed should have nothing to do with it. In fact, if he were intact, most would have him neutered asap before placing him elsewhere. They would be VERY unlikely to want to breed from an owner returned dog, especially one with potential issues. The offer to take back their dogs because they care about them and their well being, not for their breeding potential. I've seen breeders go to great lengths to retrieve dogs from across the country. Also, breed rescue normally contacts the breeder when one of their dog comes into rescue, if that breeder is known to be reputable.

As far as what to say, be honest. Its best for you, and it will get the best outcome for the dog. You might burn a bridge with this breeder, some simply will not consider a home that has returned a dog before. I wouldn't worry about that right now. I really think being completely honest with the breeder is going to be the best idea- include how this makes you feel too, thats important. It doesn't sound like you're saying "we hate this dog, you sold us a defective dog, take it back or we'll bring it to the pound" so explain exactly what is going on- you love the dog, its personality doesn't seem to be working out in your household, your family needs have changed, the dog doesn't seem happy, it not living as a house dog, and you really feel it would be better of in a home that can better handle its needs and work with it.