Putting our dog up for adoption and broken hearted

[RRMum]

Two weeks ago our dog was surprised and bit our LO.  LO is ok, but after two weeks of deliberation we decided it would be best for our family (and possibly the dog) to give him up for adoption.  He's a wonderful creature and has been such an important part of our lives and family.  We will disclose our reasons and only adopt him out to a home without children. I'm heartbroken about this, and just reaching out from some strength. 

[starrlamia]

Have you thought about hiring a professional behaviourist to help you with the issue rather then rehoming your dog?

[RRMum]

Yes of course and in fact our doula is one.  But his issues aren't really behavioral, he is by nature timid, and our LO is by nature energetic, curious and obsessed with the dog. We just aren't willing to continue to live with the risk to our LO.  And we are worried that as our dog becomes more distant from the family (less car trips, family vacations, and always on the other side of a door or a gate) we will introduce behavioral problems that weren't previously there.  He is a loving and emotional creature. 

[midnightmommy]

It is a hard choice, bu if you really don't feel that you can handle the training involved it's the best choice for everyone involved. I'm sorry you had to make the choice, but maybe he can go to a fantastic new home with maybe older kids or teenagers that give more treats and less hugs.

[starrlamia]

 

Originally Posted by RRMum 

Yes of course and in fact our doula is one.  But his issues aren't really behavioral, he is by nature timid, and our LO is by nature energetic, curious and obsessed with the dog. We just aren't willing to continue to live with the risk to our LO.  And we are worried that as our dog becomes more distant from the family (less car trips, family vacations, and always on the other side of a door or a gate) we will introduce behavioral problems that weren't previously there.  He is a loving and emotional creature. 

is she an acutal certified behaviourist or just a trainer? There is a huge difference between the 2 and if she has no formal education in it I would seek someone else. Being timid is behavioural issue, though it obviously can be a genetic factor there are things you can do to boost his self-confidence. Has he actually shown aggressive tendencies toward your LO? The key to having a happy healthy dog is exercise and mental stimulation, if you could devote the time to tire him out, he wont care so much about being on the otherside of a baby gate.

[RRMum]

Thanks for all the replies and concern, all of you show a genuine care for both animals and children.  I share that with you.  I'd like to close this thread out as the comments are taking me down roads I have already been. This has been a very painful few weeks and a very hard decision.  When I say I love my dog, it means I love him enough to do my best to ensure he has the happiest home possible (it goes without saying that I am willing to do the work, but my reasons have to do with the risk to my L.O.).  That may be with us, but if we can find a better situation for our pouch we have to try.  I was reaching out for some strength to carry through a very well thought out and difficult decision. I apologize if I have wasted anyone's time.  I should have realized it is an unfair request to ask for support in a situation where I did not provide all the details.  Best to all.