A new dog

[Dancer2020]

My dog died about 6 months ago. I decided to get another dog from a reputable breeder. I found a 1 year old and thought that would be better than a puppy; potty trained and have some training. But I got a dog who has no training, has high anxiety and marks in the house. I made the decision to return him to his original owner. Honestly I cannot deal with his behavior issues and would never trust him to not mark in my home. I just wanted a dog I could love but not have to fix. Given all this I feel so guilty, beating myself up and chalking up another experience that proves I'm not a good person and having my anxiety take over. I wish anxiety would go away and let me live a peaceful life. Thanks for listening. Any suggestions?

[ShouldaWouldaCoulda]

Oh dear, losing a dog is a hard emotional time to get used to him not being there. I think you’re right to want to love another but perhaps this was not the right fit for you.Are you able to visit rescue organizations to meet dogs? Perhaps research which type of breed need which care. It’s a good idea for a bit older than a puppy but it has to be potty trained! I’m 63 and have similar situation.

[Dancer2020 in reply to ShouldaWouldaCoulda]

I wish I would have met him before just picking him up. I had a feeling about him when we met but I pushed it aside. And now know I should have listened to my gut. If I ever decide to get a dog I will definitely visit it and go home to think about it. My spontaneity seems to get me in trouble.

[ShouldaWouldaCoulda in reply to Dancer2020]

We travelled to a Greyhound Rescue home and they had a fenced area where they’d let a few at a time go out to. This was eight years ago here in US. We currently had a two year old loveable, beautiful, and an female Alpha Boxer. We took her with us and she actually picked the goofiest, biggest old black and white Greyhound they had! He’s ten and his time is coming closer.,,,we lost our precious Boxer about a year and a half ago. You’ll know when the one meant for you is there!

[Dancer2020 in reply to ShouldaWouldaCoulda]

It's heartbreaking to lose a fur baby

[ShouldaWouldaCoulda]

I made a comment but it’s below !

[kenster1]

most dogs need to get used to new surroundings and will often pee in the house at first as it`s them marking their territory rather than them being untrained.my dog has done it in 4 houses but only a couple of times in each.

[hypercat54]

Hi I admire anyone who takes on dogs as although I love them do not have the energy to train them or the patience required. It doesn't mean you are a failure it just means you are like many people.

If you want a pet that's easier try a cat - not a kitten but one who is litter trained and socialised. You need to have safe outside space though and be willing to put up with a bit of scratching inside. If you have animals though you are never going to have a picture perfect home but it's a compromise you have to make. Cats make lovely pets and aren't too demanding.

However cats should never be declawed as this is very cruel and deforms them causing great psychological damage. If you want the benefits of an animal you also have to accept the downside too.

[Dancer2020 in reply to hypercat54]

Thank you for the reply. A cat may be better for me.

[hypercat54 in reply to Dancer2020]

You are welcome. I have a cat and they are much easier. However only have one if you like cats and can give them a good life. They are very different from dogs in that they decide when they want you, not the other way round.

[designguy]

I've had dogs and puppies and at one time volunteered for the Weimaraner rescue in our area. One time I was fostering a male and it turned out he had a major territorial issue with one of my females. I ended up breaking up a fight with him attacking her by the throat. I realized how little i knew about fostering and/or adopting dogs who have a history. Even young dogs have a history that you won't really know about when adopting. My suggestion is to get a puppy and train it yourself and that way there aren't any surprises. Personally, I love the fun and joy of puppies.

[Dancer2020 in reply to designguy]

I agree with you and needed to hear that. My last two were puppies and were great.

[ShouldaWouldaCoulda]

I agree…. I think We could still handle a puppy from a small breed. You have an excellent point