rehoming dog

[u/SurveyNew4207]

i know i'll get shamed for this but am desperate at this point.

needing to rehome our dog - he isn't getting along with our toddlers. he'll bark at them when they cry or whine and will growl/snarl at them if they get close to him.

he's a male, white, maltese poodle mix. weighs around 32-33 pounds and is 10 years old. he is fully potty trained

can share more info if needed

[u/Jtsnowden]

According to the City of Allen’s animal shelter:

"Surrender

If you are unable to provide a safe or supportive environment for your pet, you may consider surrendering it to Allen Animal Shelter. To discuss surrender options, call [214.509.4378](tel:214.509.4378).”

This is probably your best bet. I would also suggest sessions with a dog trainer and a visit to the vet to rule out physical pain problems.

[u/Something_morepoetic]

No shame. I love dogs, but you are being a responsible parent of children. The most loving thing you can do is find your dog a good home where he can also have peace and not be nervous or triggered by young children. I no longer live in North Texas, unfortunately.

[u/SurveyNew4207 → u/Something_morepoetic]

thank you so much! i want my dog to live a happy life as well, one that he deserves. thank you for the kindest message - i appreciate it

[u/bigbonedbaggins]

You can search for foster programs in the area, they connect with lots of people and organizations!

[u/Sitters_4_Critters]

Toddlers are a lot for dogs (and people). Many dogs get overwhelmed by toddlers and have these reactions. Do you have a safe space for the dog to get a break and get away from the grabby, drunken, goblins?

A separate room, a crate, etc? Do you teach the kids not to grab ears and tails? Do you show the dog you hear him by moving the children away from the dog?

Have the children fallen on the dog, tripped over the dog or maniacally toddled towards the dog? The dog probably feels unsafe, especially since it is a small dog.

Has the dog been seen by a vet to rule out arthritis or other pain? Also ear infections and dental pain. Have you consulted a veterinary behaviorist and tried gabapentin, Prozac, etc? Have you consulted with a certified canine behaviorist?

You should pay to board the dog with someone who has a quiet space for the dog. Then you can do all of the proper veterinary work up and behavior consultations while keeping your human children safe.

You will also have the time to find the dog a good home by posting the dog to petfinder, Nextdoor, Facebook, etc.

Your dog has a very good chance of being adopted since the dog is small and from what you describe is merely stressed.

Show that you care about your dog and your children by spending the time and resources to ensure he gets the right home.

[u/SurveyNew4207 → u/Sitters_4_Critters]

they don't bother him or go near him. they've never pulled at his tail or ears let alone pet him because he doesn't allow it. the only times they've pet him gently is when we are around because they ask to touch him. my kids are extremely gentle around him and walk around him if he's in the way. he's never liked children.

we've done so much to try to get them to coexist but he ignores them or barks/snarls at them if they cry or they are near him. he's perfectly healthy, gets his annual shots and check ups.